Waikerie was established in 1894 when its first settlers arrived by paddle-steamer. Large fruit plantings now surround the farming community and the town is truly the centre of the citrus and fruit industry in South Australia.
In addition, hundreds of hectares of grape vines have been planted in recent times, making Waikerie one of the largest tonnage producers in the Riverland.
The name Waikerie is said to mean ‘many wings’, named after the giant swift moth ‘wei kari’, given by the original Indigenous community. It’s an appropriate name, considering the teeming bird life in the lagoons and wetlands that edge the river.
Observe the prolific birdlife at Gluepot Pot Reserve, treat your tastebuds with local chocolates and other gourmet goodies or check out the recently renovated Waikerie Hotel.