Big River Country is home to some of the most unusual and spectacular flora and fauna in the state. The best known of its 37 national parks is the vast expanse of lagoons and sand dunes south of the Murray Mouth known as the Coorong where large numbers of waterfowl gather to feed on the area's water plants.
Agriculture is a major contributor to the region's economy, from the orchards and vineyards of the Riverland, the dryland farming of the Murray Mallee - with sheep, beef and cereal crops - to the rich dairy country at the lower reaches of the river. Almost half of South Australia's wine grapes are grown in the region.
Big River Country offers a relaxed lifestyle and its wide range of natural products - wines, dried fruit, and fresh produce - are specially tempting for the health conscious. Its sporting facilities are second to none with fine golf courses, bowling greens, tennis complexes and swimming centres.
The area is rich in river heritage with remnants of both Aboriginal culture and early European settlement. The history of exploration and the opening up of the harsh Mallee country, the establishment of irrigation settlements, and early river transport provide a fascinating glimpse into our past.
The river draws tens of thousands of visitors every year. Houseboat holidays, riverboat cruises, water skiing, canoeing, fishing, windsurfing, spectacular cliffs, teeming bird-life, historic river towns and relaxation - they're all part of the river's appeal.
The region has a milder climate than Adelaide and is popular as a winter holiday destination.
In the Riverland, there's an old saying; "We don't promise you the moon just give you the sun". |