Sebastian Calderon, Murray Pioneer
Loxton has become the Murray River Queen’s (MRQ) new home after the boat’s successful voyage from Renmark.
The MRQ last weekend moved downstream with many local spectators and tourists, photographing the vessel as it made its journey.
The Paringa Bridge crossing was one of the highlights during her trip, as cars and people gathered to see the bridge go up and give way to Donna Neale and her team steaming the MRQ.
Murray River Queen owner Donna Neale said “I have to be honest, I’ve been so overwhelmed and it’s just been a long time coming really”.
“The trip itself was just incredible, the amount of support from people along the way that wanted to watch the Queen and the support when I got to Loxton was just incredible,” Ms Neale said.
“There were people outside their houses shouting and cheering, as well as along the riverfront, it was just amazing for us.”
Ms Neale said the MRQ still requires some renovations, particularly in the rooms that will be used to accommodate locals and tourists.
“We are also waiting for the services and infrastructure to be finished at the riverfront,” Ms Neale said.
“The first thing we are going to do once all the work on the bank is finished is open the accommodation, because we have our 11 rooms to rent out straight away.
“I’d love to be able to say we will be able to get the accommodation open prior to Christmas, but will just have to see how it all goes.
“I’m really hoping it all goes to plan and then we would hope to get the cafe open as soon as possible as well.
“The restaurant will be the last thing that we look at opening, due to finishing off the kitchen/dining renovations and the fact of needing to get staff and a great chef, so I’d love to put it out there if anybody’s keen.
“We’ll do our very best to get things happening as soon as possible.”
Loxton Waikerie Mayor Trevor Norton followed the MRQ during its voyage and said the boat will increase much needed accommodation capacity in Loxton, adding a unique experience for visitors and locals”.
“Donna’s planning, efforts, and commitment to bring the boat to Loxton have been well supported by DCLW, with ratepayer investment providing a new wharf and services at the Lion’s Park, further activating another area of our riverfront,” Mr Norton said.
“Council staff also coordinated planning permissions and licences from state government departments.
“The amount of people following her journey from Renmark was extraordinary with more than 60 at Lock 4 when she passed through and a very large crowd to witness her tie up at about 7pm.
“I followed her from Berri, watching her pass under the bridge, through Lock 4 and at other points on her way, using social media to check her progress when she was out of sight.
“I’m sure the support from the community will continue to grow and the Queen will drive more tourism and economic benefits for Loxton. We all wish Donna and the MRQ much success.”
Further information about background details regarding the MRQ and council’s agreement can be found by visiting the website (www. engagement.lwdc.sa.gov.au/ sublicence-and-communityland- management-plan-murray- river-queen).
Public consultation concludes today at 5pm.
This article appeared in the Murray Pioneer, 27 November 2024.
