Paringa Silo Art

Paringa Silo Art

Located just outside Renmark in South Australia, the Paringa Silo Art, titled “The River at Renmark,” showcases the rich history and beautiful environment of the Riverland region. Painted by artists Jack Fran and Sam Brooks, it captures the essence of life along the Murray River. Completed in early 2021, the silos serve as an attraction, drawing travellers off the Sturt Highway.

Honouring Local Legends and River Life

The artwork features four distinct images, two on the front facing the highway and two on the rear, all linked by soaring pelicans. These pelicans symbolize the interconnected nature of the community and the river. The main feature is the silhouette of local figures, with scenes of the Riverland painted inside their profiles. The murals represent:

• Charles Chaffey, an early irrigation pioneer. The scene inside his profile depicts David Jones, known as “Possum,” a local figure who lived off the land along the Murray for decades, showcasing both the pioneers and the unique characters of the area.
• Captain Pearl Wallace, Australia’s first female certified skipper, with the historic paddle steamer Industry featured within her profile.
• Sister Elaine Balfour-Ogilvy, a World War II nurse murdered by Japanese troops in the Bangka Straits Massacre. A houseboat within her profile represents the importance of the tourist industry.
• The silhouette of an Aboriginal man representing the first community inhabitants.

In addition, the artwork features iconic Riverland imagery, reinforcing the theme of the Murray River. You can also spot the magnificent river cliffs, the Paringa Bridge, and the Murray Cod, which is a vital part of the river ecosystem. The silos are easily accessible from the main road, making for an excellent photo opportunity.

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