Bookmark Creek upgrades deliver major environmental benefits and unlocks potential opportunities

Renmark Paringa Council representatives recently attended the official unveiling of the Bookmark Creek environmental upgrades, celebrating a major milestone for the health of the River Murray, local ecosystems, and the Renmark community.

The completed works have restored more natural water flows through the 10-kilometre watercourse, creating healthier conditions for native fish, turtles, and other aquatic species, while also improving recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

The project features nation-leading design, including a new inlet regulator, canoe channel, and pedestrian bridge – all working together to restore ecological connectivity between the river and the creek.

The new regulator increases water flow through Bookmark Creek by around five times, creating fast-flowing habitat that supports native fish, including Murray cod.

The integrated fishway is another key feature, allowing fish and turtles to move freely between the creek and the River Murray for the first time in decades.

Renmark Paringa Council Chief Executive Officer Tony Siviour said the upgrades deliver long-term environmental benefits for the region.

“The return of natural flows through Bookmark Creek helps re-establish vital habitats and opens up exciting opportunities for local fish breeding programs,” Mr Siviour said.
“It could also pave the way for the introduction of native crayfish into the creek, which would be an amazing opportunity that Council would be keen to support.

The project is also enhancing the community’s connection to the natural environment.

The new pedestrian bridge and canoe channel now allow paddlers to travel the full length of the creek, providing new ways for locals and visitors to enjoy this unique waterway.

Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said the upgrades show the important link between a healthy environment and community wellbeing.

“If we can continue to improve our environment - for ourselves and for future generations - we’ll see long-term benefits for mental and physical health, as well as having beautiful places to walk, fish, and relax,” Mayor Hunter said.
“Our first focus needs to be on locals, our enjoyment of the river and our long-term sustainability.
“I was involved in those early discussions over the years, along with the Booky Creek Group and the Renmark Irrigation Trust - and being able to share a local perspective in the planning has been really important.”

Parts of the creek have been reshaped to improve water movement, and revegetation work is planned to restore native vegetation, stabilise banks, and support a healthier ecosystem.

Renmark Paringa Council extends its thanks to the funding bodies through the Sustaining Riverland Environments (SRE) program for their support of this important project and their commitment to the long-term health of Bookmark Creek.

Bookmark Creek is one of three South Australian sites identified as ecologically significant for restoration under the SRE program – a $37.6 million initiative funded by the Australian Government through the Murray–Darling Basin Authority, and delivered by the South Australian Department for Environment and Water.