Images: Supplied
The Riverland’s Renmark Club has undergone a major transformation, with a new riverfront deck, updated dining spaces and further developments underway as the long-standing venue prepares for another summer overlooking the Murray River.
“The Renmark Club was established in 1909, making it 117 years old this year,” shared the Renmark Club Team.
“It’s been an important part of the Riverland community for generations, and while the Club has changed considerably over that time, its role as a place for people to come together hasn’t.”
Its latest round of improvements began in September 2023 with the redevelopment of the cafe and gaming facilities, before attention turned to the waterfront deck, which has introduced a new way to experience the riverfront venue.
The deck features enormous custom-made opening glass panels that can be opened on warmer days to create a connected indoor-outdoor space. When temperatures drop, the panels can be closed, with a double-sided fireplace helping create a cosy setting through winter.
Rather than one large open area, the deck has been designed with different experiences in mind, including comfortable booths, high tables, relaxed lounge seating and a central lounge area. A dedicated function space caters for families and larger groups, while screens, a substantial LED display and adjustable RGB lighting allow the atmosphere to change for sporting events, celebrations and special occasions.
The deck is also accessible from both ends, with a purpose-built ramp into the sunken lounge, and welcomes four-legged visitors.
The club has recently introduced its new summer menu, with a focus on fresh flavours and regional ingredients. Riverland-born chef Andy Symeonakis has returned to the region as executive chef, bringing experience from award-winning venues across Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne and Geelong.
His menu draws on local produce with a Mediterranean influence, while the updated cafe provides a contemporary setting for coffee, breakfast and casual dining.
The riverfront redevelopment follows a series of earlier upgrades, including expanded bar, dining and function areas in 2006, a larger dining room in 2014 and a new kitchen, furniture and lounge bar in 2019.
But the work is not finished yet.
The club is now progressing its next major stage, known as the Transformation Project, which includes new function and production kitchen facilities, a purpose-built conference room for around 20 people, improved amenities and administration areas, and a dedicated Family Hub and Sensory Room.
The Family Hub and Sensory Room are expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with the remaining works anticipated to continue until around March 2027.
Developed with input from Autism SA, the Sensory Room is intended to provide a more comfortable environment for families with additional sensory needs.
Across the various stages, the club is investing more than $9 million in its future, with the upgrades designed to improve both the visitor experience and the facilities supporting larger functions, weddings and community events.
“We’ve tried to create a place that feels equally comfortable for our local members and for someone visiting the Riverland for the first time.
“Ultimately, we want people to walk in, look around and think, ‘Wow, I wasn’t expecting this!’,” shared the team.
With its new riverfront dining areas now operating and further facilities on the way, the Renmark Club is continuing its long history as a place for the community to come together, with the Murray River firmly at the centre of the experience.
The Renmark Club
Where: 160 Murray Ave, Renmark SA 5341, Australia
When: Monday to Sunday, 9am to late
For more information, click here.
Related
A new aqua park and luxury riverfront stays are among the tourism projects planned for the River Murray
Riverland pioneer named Australia’s Viticulturist of the Year in 2027 Halliday Wine Awards
Homemade gopher car among bizarre finds during SAPOL’s Riverland road blitz
Two tonnes of Murray Cod up to a metre long are going into Barmera’s Lake Bonney
