River History
More than a hundred million years ago a great river was born.
For thousands of years, many Aboriginal peoples have relied on the river's abundance and traded along the river in canoes cut and crafted from the red river gums that line the river's edge. Rock art and scarred canoe trees remain along the length of the Murray River - fascinating reminders of a culture in perfect harmony with the land and its creatures.
In the 19th century the river opened the region to settlers, trade and communication, and provided irrigation for the agricultural industries that soon flourished. Paddle steamers plied its full length, carrying wool, wheat and goods to and from the settlements along the Murray's banks, sometimes as far as the Darling junction.
Then came irrigation. Introduced to the Riverland in 1887 by Canadian George Chaffey, it transformed the northern section of the Murray into a lush paradise. Today the Murray River meanders through South Australia's heartland to the sea giving its modern day explorers unforgettable encounters with abundant wildlife, historic towns, rich vineyards and orchards.
Escape the daily bustle by walking its heritage trails along the river or through the mallee country, enjoy its many water sports and discover its romantic past in museums and restored paddleboats.
Don't miss:
The Mannum Dock Museum of River History
Signal Point River Murray Centre
George Chaffey's former home, Olivewood
