Our Origin Story

For Murray River Trails founder and environmental scientist Tony Sharley, sustainability wasn’t an afterthought - it was the very reason for starting an Advanced Eco-Tourism Certified business along the stretch of river where he grew up.

Following a devastating drought that ended in 2010, Tony’s knowledge and passion for the river inspired the idea to diversify the Riverland economy with an eco-tourism business. In 2016 the first Murray River Walk departed - using houseboats that were in low demand during winter, with a local operator who volunteered to be both the first skipper and galley cook.

In 2017 Murray River Walk celebrated its inclusion in the Great Walks of Australia collective, the experience evolved, and every year guests numbers doubled up until 2020 when touring came to an abrupt closure.

In that year of closure, encouraged by past guests that wanted to come back and see more of the river, the idea to expand the tour offering beyond walking tours led to the development of Murray River Safari. Safari could operate in the warmer Spring and Autumn weather and showcase areas and wildlife that there wasn't time to see on Murray River Walk.

In 2022 Murray River Trails celebrated another milestone with the construction of its first purpose built eco-lux houseboat 'High River' which now features as accommodation on all tours.

Whether Tony is guiding and sharing his knowledge or planning the next regenerative project through our Murray River Trails Fund, he is always exploring ways to inspire others to advocate for the future of a healthy Murray Darling Basin.