New sign to mark historical Barmera site

Earlier this year, Berri Barmera Council removed the former Lake Bonney pumping plant wall – which had deteriorated significantly – due to safety concerns.
Berri Barmera Council CEO Tim Pfeiffer said the sign and remnants of the wall were a good compromise to pay homage to the significance of the site and Barmera’s early settler history.
“The sign reflects the history of the 107-year-old wall, which was built to protect the pump from rising flood waters in December 1917,” he said.
“The pumping plant was vital for establishing Barmera as one of the Riverland’s major towns and became a real focal point for locals and tourists.
“While it was sad to see this piece of Barmera’s history removed, we’ve ensured its story will be known for generations to come.”
For many years, the remainder of the wall was used as a jetty and children’s play area. However, over time, the concrete began to break and became dangerous.
Following the wall’s removal earlier this year, the area was returned to its natural beachfront state.
The sign, located with the current Lake Bonney Caravan Park, was compiled by Council’s history officer, Jacque Zagotsis and long-time Barmera resident, John Beech.