Waikerie, the ‘Gateway to the Riverland,’ is located on the A20 Sturt Highway and is only 2.5 hours from Adelaide. The names is derived from ‘Wei kari’, meaning ‘Many Wings’ and was named by the local Ngawait Aboriginal tribe. The term ‘Many Wings’ refers to the giant swift moths, known today as Rain Moths, emerging from their cocoons from beneath the ground after heavy rain. The township of Waikerie was established in 1884, as an experiment to solve the unemployment rate in Adelaide and quickly became the first irrigated area in the Riverland, growing vines, lemons and stone fruit.
Waikerie, like all Riverland towns has a strong sense of Community demonstrated by the local Sporting clubs. From football, netball and hockey, to water ski-ing and lawn bowls, Waikerie has sports for everyone. The main street offers good shopping in the town centre, along with a good night out at the Waikerie Hotel.
Drop by and take a look. Waikerie also sits on the mighty Murray, so bring along the dinghy or ski boat for fishing, water sports or a relaxing cruise.
Attractions
Waikerie Silo Art
Rainmoth Gallery
Illalangi
Burk Salter
Benson Park Horse Riding Trails
Riverglen View Art Studio and Gallery
Gliding – Waikerie International Soaring Centre
Bird Watching at Gluepot Reserve
Waikerie Fauna and Wildlife Park
Rotary Cliftop Walk
Camel and Boat Safaris
Caudo Cellar Door
Waikerie Water and Nature Play Park
Barrangal Cruises
Events
Riverland Rock ‘n’ Roll Festival
Citrus Festival
Waikerie Markets
Lions Auction
Riverland Enduro
Riverland Hit ‘n’ Miss Rally
Waikerie Santa’s Cave
Waikerie Christmas Pagent
Waikerie Food Fair
Waikerie Australia Day Event
True Grit at Caudo Vineyard
SKAA Australian Speedway Kart Title
Clubs
Waikerie Community Club
Waikerie Football Club
Waikerie Netball Club
Waikerie Golf Club
Waikerie Gliding Club
Waikerie Rotary Club
Waikerie Little Athletics
Waikerie Rifle Club
Waikerie Bowling Club
Ladies Probus Club Inc
Waikerie Black Sox
Waikerie Horse and Pony Club
Waikerie Hockey Club
Dining
The Carpenters Daughter and Co
Caudo Cellar Door
Waikerie Hotel Motel
Waikerie Club
Waikerie Golf Club
Blanchetown Hotel
Newland Bakery
Viewpoint Cafe
Waikerie Cafe
Café on McCoy
Waikerie Bakery
Soda Sundae
Kim’s Chow
Schools
Waikerie Children’s Centre
Pam’s Busy Bee Family Day Care
Cadell Primary School
Ramco Primary School
Waikerie Primary School
Waikerie Lutheran Primary School
Waikerie High School