Madison Eastmond, Murray Pioneer
The region was in full bloom last weekend as the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival celebrations began for 2025.
The 2025 program kicked off the weekend with a number of popular returning components, including the Renmark Institute floral display, Gala Dinner, and the Festival Fair.
Riverland Rose and Garden Festival Committee president Michelle Dominic said the opening of the celebrations was “fantastic” and “overwhelmingly positive”.
“The weather was kind to us again this year, and (the committee) have received so many positive comments,” Ms Dominic said.
“Open gardens region-wide have been well attended, and the Riverland Friends of the Women and Children’s Hospital Axillary fundraiser, held last Sunday in the Dominic open garden, saw over 120 people attend, and enjoy a yummy afternoon tea and Loxton’s Country Proud Clothing fashion show.
“The decorations, music, food, and staff of the Renmark Function Centre made the Gala Dinner a truly fun and memorable night, with the community completely supporting the event with 140 ticket sales.
“The Renmark Institute is always a highlight and a must see, and was beautiful again this year — the theme ‘New Beginnings’ showcased the work of many volunteers, new and old, and was a true testament to the new organisers of the event.
“The Market Fair also received great numbers again this year, with the Official opening made by Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland chair Jodie Hawkes, who really highlighted the importance of events like the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival.”
Attending the Saturday morning Market Fair celebrations, Riverland-based MLC, and opposition spokesperson for regional South Australia, Nicola Centofanti said “the festival (was not) just about the stunning roses and beautiful gardens, (but) about the people — the volunteers, gardeners, local businesses, and community members who pour their hearts into making it happen year after year”.
“Events like this remind us just how special our region is,” Dr Centofanti said.
“They bring people together, support local businesses, and shine a light on the creativity and generosity of our communities.
“Congratulations to Michelle Dominic and the hardworking festival committee for your dedication and vision have again brought this iconic event to life, showcasing the best of the Riverland.”
With another week left to enjoy— the festival ending on October 19 — Ms Dominic said she encouraged locals and visitors alike to support the region this season by attending open gardens and the many events still to come.
“The Festival really fosters connection and celebration, and reminds us of the power of community — particularly in the recent years, where there have been on-going challenges, the dry seasons, pressures on the wine industry, and the lingering impacts of floods,” Ms Dominic said.
For more information on the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival, visit the website (www.riverlandrosesandgardens.com.au), or pick up a full program at any Riverland visitor information centre, or The Murray Pioneer Renmark office.
This article appeared in Murray Pioneer, 15 October 2025.
