Coalition reunion shelved in Chaffey
Hugh Schuitemaker. The Coalition’s recent reunion has failed to reach Chaffey. In this weekend’s SA Election, The Nationals are again running a candidate against Liberal MP Tim Whetstone. The sitting member has returned the favour by preferencing Nationals contender Imelda Adamson Agars fifth in the nine-candidate field.
Heat and rain hampering vintage
Christine Webster. Heatwave conditions at the start of the 2026 Riverland vintage, followed by recent heavy rainfall in some parts of the region, are causing headaches for many wine grape growers. The Oxford Landing Winery’s regional viticulturist Glynn Muster said the long spell of hot weather in late January and February had initially caused heat stress to some vineyards.
Panic at the bowser
Hugh Schuitemaker. Pressure on fuel supplies has seen a Mallee area service station frequently used by Riverlanders run dry, and is adding to anxiety being felt by farmers and growers according to the region’s State MP. Karoonda’s independent service station was as of yesterday out of fuel, with shortages sparked by panic buying due to the war in the Middle East.
Rain equals a trim for Tim
Hugh Schuitemaker. A well-known Riverland West farmer's face is looking different – and much more optimistic – following the weekend's heavy rainfall across the region. Lowbank-based farmer Tim Paschke was earlier this week able to cut his beard, which he committed to growing until his property received at least a 25mm rainfall event.
A budding friendship: Harvey Norman becomes major sponsor of rose fest
Madison Eastmond. A Renmark business has become a major sponsor of the reinstated 2026 Riverland Rose and Garden Festival after pledging of upwards of $5000 in support for the event. Locally owned business, Harvey Norman Renmark, has become one of the first major sponsors of the upcoming Riverland Rose and Garden Festival.
New leadership ensuring a rose festival revival
Madison Eastmond. A Renmark local has stepped up to lead the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival Committee, with her decision and recent community volunteer efforts saving the regional event for 2026 ... “It’s such an important event to the community and local businesses, and I am just delighted to be working with the fantastic Riverland Rose and Garden Festival Committee to once again bring the festival to the Riverland”: Vicki Dunhill.
