Berri

Berri, nestled in the heart of the Riverland region of South Australia, has a fascinating history intricately linked to the growth of the local agricultural sector. Founded in the early 20th century, Berri quickly became a crucial hub for the fruit and wine production for which the Riverland is famed. The town's name is derived from an Aboriginal term meaning "big river bend," reflecting the geographical features upon which it has developed. Until the 1870s, this area was part of the Cobdogla sheep station and was originally inhabited by the Erawirunga People.

In 1910, the introduction of irrigation transformed the landscape, leading to Berri being officially proclaimed a town in 1911. This irrigation boom paved the way for the establishment of vineyards and fruit orchards, including citrus, apricots, and peaches. A distillery was founded in 1918, and by 1928, rail transport had reached the town. In 1943, the first "Berri Juices" (Berri Ltd) were produced, and by the 1950s, Berri, along with other towns in the Riverland, played a dominant role in the local economy through its fruit and related products.