About
Riverland, South Australia
The Riverland area of South Australia is home to six golf courses situated in close proximity to the Murray River.
Murray River Golf courses over three of Australia’s states come with a
wonderful reputation, and you will not be disappointed with the three exceptional Riverland courses chosen for this event. The Riverland area is situated close to the SA – VIC border in the east of South Australia and is on the major road route between Adelaide and Sydney being the Sturt Highway.
You are invited to come on a road trip to enjoy a week of golf and enjoy the pleasures that the region will offer you. The region portrays the Murray River at its best with smooth waters and unbelievable scenery, where you will see wonderful aquatic birdlife and wildlife reinvigorated by the recent high river levels. Houseboats and water sports are popular in the region with opportunities to cruise, paddle or sail the waters of the Murray, tributaries, and backwaters. The river brings life to a very fertile agricultural region which has the reputation of being Australia’s largest wine production area and the fruit and nut bowl of South Australia. The region is home to many national wine producers as well as boutique wineries, distilleries, and breweries. So, come and partake some of the best wines, food and produce in Australia.
Venues
Loxton Golf Club
Loxton’s superb golf course located 8kms from the town, presents a relaxed and social atmosphere, perfect for golfing enthusiasts with accomodation on site for the caravanning and RV contingent.
The 18 hole course has been ranked among the Top Ten courses in South Australia, and the Top 100 Australian country courses.
Lush irrigated open fairways provide a high standard playing surface all year. There are sand bunkers on 10 holes and a varied range of grassy mounds on the surrounds of most holes. Many of the greens have challenging slopes requiring careful approach strategies.The course has an abundance of mature Aleppo Pine, various gums and other shade trees lining fairways and surrounds of most holes.
Berri Golf Club
The Berri Golf Club provides players with a wonderful golfing encounter. The 18 hole, par 71, Men’s & par 73, Women’s course is made up of fully irrigated fairways that meander through attractive natural mallee scrub and rough that is composed of the natural sandhill environment the course was constructed on, and leading you to challenging greens that play fairly when hit – the course is a test for any player with good drive placement being essential on most holes if you wish to score well..
Resident kangaroos and emus are often seen on the course which only adds to the excitement of the Berri Golf experience.
Modern on-course accommodation and dining experiences allows visitors to stay and play in comfort.
Barmera Golf Club
Barmera Golf Club is one of the Riverland’s most prestigious golf courses. Situated in the heart of Barmera, the Golf Club offers visitors the chance to play a challenging, yet fun golf course. The club has recently received the Golf SA Club of the Year Award for 2022 recognising the quality of the course, friendly atmosphere and modern facilities.
Barmera Golf Course is a par 72, eighteen hole course with pristine fairways and exceptionally fast greens that reward a good approach shot. The greens are surrounded by a mix of shallow bunkers and grassed mounds. Off the fairways is a different story, where you will confront the challenges provided by low lying blue bush native to the area. Barmera golf course is situated in the centre of town offering on course modern accommodation, convenience and activities at your doorstep.
Accommodation options
MAKE A HOLIDAY OUT OF IT!
Many other options are available in the towns and within the Riverland region to suit your needs:
Search on the accommodation section of visitriverland.com.au and secure your booking now for the National Championship week.
The Riverland provides plenty of unique accommodation choices including holiday homes, hotels, motels, apartments, lodges, cottages, retreats, cabins, and B&Bs.
We have some suggestions on this page or explore the options that are available within the towns and Riverland region to suit your needs.
Search on the Visit Riverland web pages, visitriverland.com.au and secure your booking now for the National Championship week.
Most of the major hotels in the region have beds for the night on-site or as an attached hotel/motel offering for longer stays. From five-star luxury, bespoke villas, and riverside shacks, to floating houseboats and off the grid cabins, the accommodation options in the Riverland are as unique as they are diverse, so make sure you book in for the week to really escape the pace and immerse yourself in the region.
You can live like a local in a holiday home, river shack or bed and breakfast or if you have a caravan in tow, there are plenty of picturesque parks and public campgrounds to choose from. There is also cabin accommodation at every park, suitable for both couples, families and groups.
Surrender to mother nature as you wake to birds, not alarm clocks. Laugh around the warmth of a campfire before bed. And, at the day’s end, fall asleep to the soft sounds of the Australian landscape.
Here are some of the Accommodation options with central location in each of the towns of Berri, Barmera and Loxton.
Berri Riverside Holiday Park
A range of cabin types, group stay options, apartments and sites for caravans and RV’s. Book online. Email: info@berriholidaypark.com.au, Phone 08 85823723
Centrally located in the Riverland for access to all three golf courses. Nestled in a quiet and serene setting just across the road from the stunning Murray River and only a short walk from the town centre, the park offers affordable, luxury accommodation whether choosing to stay in a Superior, Deluxe or En suite cabin or on a grassed en suite, powered or unpowered site. Phone 08 85823723 to access the reserved options for AVGU event attendees.
Riverland Comfort Inn and Suites
Motel rooms, book online, email: stay@comfortinnriverland.com.au, phone 08 85882888
Set within the tranquil surroundings of the Barmera Golf Course and geographically central to the Riverland. There is a range of room types to cater for couples or golfing groups. It is only a short walk from the town shopping precinct, and do not miss a visit to the Barmera Club to enjoy a meal whilst overlooking the magnificent Lake Bonney.
Loxton Hotel
Modern Hotel and Motel rooms, book online, email: loxtonhotel@loxtonhotel.com.au,
phone 08 85847266
This National award-winning hotel is found in the heart of Loxton and just a 10-minute drive to the Loxton Golf Course. Each of the hotel’s 30 motel suites opens to a private balcony. Some offer spectacular views over the Murray River; others overlook the sparkling under-shade pool and beautifully landscaped guest BBQ area. There are also 21 attractive and comfortable hotel rooms within the magnificent and massive hotel accommodation precinct, all with ensuite facilities.
Discovery Parks – Lake Bonney Caravan & Holiday Park
A range of cabins and units, sites for caravans and RV’s, book online,
email: lakebonney@discoveryparks.com.au, phone 1800034828 or 08 85882234
Perfectly positioned next to Barmera’s magnificent Lake Bonney, a relaxing walk along the Lakefront paths is one of life’s great pleasures. The park is situated close to the centre of town and has a large range of cabin accommodation along with beautifully placed caravan sites.
Big4 Loxton Riverfront Holiday Park
A range of cabins, glamping tents, sites for caravans and RV’s, book online,
email: info@loxtonholidaypark.com.au, phone 08 8584 7862
Nestled into the banks of the mighty Murray River in the heart of the Riverland, BIG4 Loxton Riverfront Holiday Park is located just a 10-minute drive from the Loxton Golf Club. Enjoy wide open spaces, water sports on the river, a spot of fishing or just sit back and relax.
Big River Golf and Country Club
Motel rooms and apartments, book online, email: info@bigrivergolf.com.au, phone 08 85822688
Welcome to Big River Golf and Country Club, the perfect place to stay while visiting Berri. Our stunning views of the golf course will make your stay a memorable one. We offer comfortable accommodation and delicious dining at The Tavern, so you can enjoy all that Berri has to offer in style and comfort.
Social Program
Sunday 20th October 2024
RIVERLAND WELCOME DAY BBQ AND REGISTRATION
– at Berri Riverside Holiday Park, 12noon to 4pm
Monday 21st October 2024
GARDENS TOUR – Non-Golfer Tour
Join local environmentalist, Andrew Walladge, on a tour showcasing gardens (manicured through to natural) that will take you back in time. Be prepared to be challenged and inspired. You will be shown what we have gained and what we have lost and you will take away a sense of renewed wonder. Some easy short walks will be included.
Your Guide, Andrew Walladge, Project Officer with Berri Barmera Landcare is an environmentalist, business owner, guide and local media identity appearing on local ABC Riverland and Mallee Talk Back Gardening Program for almost 40 years. His passions include Australian plants, travel and motorcycling.
Tour inclusions:- Lunch & afternoon tea at River Jack’s Café Berri.
Entry to all venues & bus travel to and from the venues.
MEET AND GREET FUNCTION
For all golfing and non-golfing attendees on Monday evening at the Barmera Golf Club from 4pm. Enjoy delicious finger food and a complimentary drink in a relaxed atmosphere with your fellow golfers, partners and friends.
Tuesday 22nd October 2024
PS INDUSTRY RIVER CRUISE & WILKADENE BREWERY VISIT – Non-Golfer Tour
Spend the morning cruising the Murray River aboard the historical PS Industry, taking in the major sites of Renmark while enjoying a simple morning tea of coffee and biscuits. After your morning cruise, travel to Wilkadene Brewery by bus, where you will enjoy lunch and the opportunity to taste their famous brews as well as wandering the outstandingly picturesque scenery on the banks of the Murray River.
Tour Inclusions :- Morning tea (coffee & biscuits) aboard the PS Industry and lunch at Wilkadene Brewery (catering by the Paringa Bakery)
Entry to all venues & bus travel to and from the venues.
About the PS Industry
The PS Industry’s proud history was born with its launch in 1911, where it once worked for SA Water keeping the Murray River open to traffic, by removing snags and later in the construction of locks and weirs. After its retirement as a working vessel in 1969, the Industry spent the next 20 years slowly decaying as a static museum until 1990 when a group of enthusiastic volunteers began its restoration to its former glory.
About Wilkadene Brewery
Located in the 100 year-old woolshed of Wilkadene Station and set on the banks of the Murray River, the Wilkadene Brewery has been operating since 2009. Offered are a range of award-winning wines, cider and the infamous Hard-Lemonade & Rude Ruby – as well as a range of premium Riverland wines. For non-drinkers, freshly brewed local Arossto coffee and soft drinks are available.
Wednesday 23rd October 2024
This is the rest day for the golfers. All attendees are offered the choice of two optional tours (at extra cost) during the day.
In the evening, come to the wind down and enjoy complimentary “Pizzas at the Park”
TOUR OPTION 1 – DRABSCH GARDENS AND BANROCK STATION
Travel by bus from Berri via Loxton to New Residence to take in a tour of the Unique Drabsch Gardens. Afterwards, reboard the bus and travel to the Banrock Station Visitor Centre where you will spend the afternoon – attending a short a group presentation, to be followed by lunch and wine tasting. A self-guided wander through the wetlands is available, for those who are so inclined. Return to Berri by bus via Loxton.
Tour Inclusions: –
Morning tea at Drabsch gardens.
Banrock Station – Group Presentation about the history of Banrock Station & Wetlands followed by Lunch and Wine Tasting.
Entry to all venues & bus travel to and from the venues.
About the Drabsch Gardens
A quirky garden featuring rustic pieces, mosaics and old farm equipment and everyday objects which have been repurposed into garden art and seen throughout a garden featuring a mixture of shrubs, daisies, clivias, princess lilies, salvias, geraniums and a large range of succulents.
About Banrock Station
Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre is situated in the Heart of the Riverland and offers panoramic views of wetlands and vineyards, and is the perfect setting to enjoy outstanding food, wine and nature experiences.
TOUR OPTION 2 – THE PINES HISTORICAL HOUSE, LOXTON EAST TCE SHOPPING AND LOXTON HISTORICAL VILLAGE
After being dropped off by bus at the Pines, take in a guided tour of the historical house and gardens followed by morning tea. Next, take a short walk to Loxton’s East Tce and main shopping precinct where you will be able to wander the shops and have lunch at your leisure, using a $25 Loxton Chamber of Commerce voucher at any of the eateries or the Loxton Hotel, all located on East Tce. Then take a short walk towards the Murray River to the Loxton Historical Village and gardens, going back in time to learn more about the history of the local settlement. The Bus will pick participants up at the Historical Village for the return trip to your drop off point.
Tour Inclusions: –
Entry , Morning tea & guided tour of the Pines Historical House & Gardens Tce, and entry to Loxton Historical Village.
$25 Loxton Chamber of Commerce Voucher to use for lunch or shopping purchases.
Entry to the Loxton Historical Village
Return bus travel from pick-up points to tour venues.
About the Pines Historic House & Garden
The 2010 ABC Regional Museum Award winning property, Loxton’s Historic House and garden was bequeathed to the people of Loxton by Ella Kingdon in 2002 for display and entertainment purposes. Passionate volunteers have maintained the property in its original pristine condition for the public to enjoy and wander through.
About Loxton’s Main Street (East Tce)
A leafy and beautifully presented main-street surrounded by Loxton’s shopping precinct, East Tce provides a pictorial history of the town and surrounding district via 27 large double- sided boards lining a paved walkway in the middle of the main street. These include almost 130 photos and explanatory text and feature information of the town’s aboriginal, farming, sporting and wartime history. An overview board outlining all topics covered can be found at the rear of the Library and Visitor Centre building.
About the Loxton Historical Village
Featuring over 45 buildings fully furnished with amazing artefacts and interesting items that showcase how our pioneers lived and worked, Loxton Historical Village is a museum with an aura of old-world charm. When entering The Village, you will feel like you have been transported back to the late 1890s when the Loxton township was just being developed, through to the 1950s. Check out the Tractor Shed, Horse & Carriages, and many other farm and horticultural machines, and other vintage vehicles. Climb aboard the steam train. Sit at old desks in the school and have a go at writing in cursive.
WEDNESDAY EVENING WIND DOWN
Enjoy complimentary Pizzas at the Park – Berri Riverside Holiday Park
Thursday 24th October 2024
3 HOUR HOUSEBOAT CRUISE FROM BERRI- Non-golfer Tour
Board the Cruise Boat late morning at the Marina adjacent to the Berri Holiday Park. Commence a unique 3-hour first-hand view of the Murray River’s vibrant flora and fauna from the open- air upper deck, or from air-conditioned comfort of the lower deck. A floating restaurant, the cruise boat provides a fully licenced catered for experience with those on board being treated to an inclusive ‘grazing platter’ style lunch.
Inclusions:-
Entry to all venues & bus travel to and from the venues.
About the Houseboat Cruise
Operated by the Berri Riverside Holiday Park, this 76’ houseboat takes tour participants on a cruise up and down the river front of Berri, providing guests with a truly unique experience on the Mighty Murray River.
Friday 25th October 2024
THE PRESENTATION DINNER
The Presentation Dinner on Friday evening (optional event at extra cost) will be held over two venues after an overwhelming response was received from golfers, partners and friends. The Dinner will be held at both the Award-winning Renmark Club overlooking the magnificent Murray River, and the Barmera Golf Club. Return bus transport will be provided from Loxton, Berri and Barmera.