Walker Flat General Store: At Walker Flat, in the Murraylands region of South Australia

(Text supplied by Sightseeing South Australia - Photos courtesy of Rick Burgess)

Dave and Lyn Burgess count themselves lucky to have managed the Walker Flat General Store since the mid 80s.

“We love the lifestyle of the store”, explains Dave.

“We enjoy the openness of the people. When they come to the river they’re friendly, because they’re free from the hassles of the big smoke”.

So dedicated are Dave and Lyn, that they are open every single day of the year, except Christmas day.

The Walker Flat General Store happily caters for all types of holidaymakers, from the day-trippers and campers who have travelled from Adelaide, to the ‘shackies’ who discover that there are items that they have forgotten to pack.

Aside from the quality groceries and other various wares, Dave and Lyn also provide takeaway meals and a liquor store. The business is also an agency for BankSA. Those wishing to indulge in a spot of water skiing, jet skiing, houseboating or fishing, are assured that there is always plenty of fuel and bait in stock.

The best way to explore the scenic ochre cliffs of Walker Flat is via the gentle pace of a canoe. The Walker Flat General Store offers canoe hire all year round. The immediate Lake Bywater is perfect for canoeists as the area is protected and free from motorised vessels. Experienced enthusiasts can follow the creek, which runs from Lake Bywater, directly into the river.

The Burgess clan are now involved with plans to renovate an old cottage situated behind the store. The building, which was erected in 1886, will be transformed into a self-contained bed and breakfast, suitable for up to three couples.

The Walker Flat General Store is located at the end of the Mount Pleasant strait, 3km upstream from the ferry.

Walker Flat General Store
Address: 4590 Lake Bywater Road, Walker Flat, 5238.
Phone: +61 (0)8 8570 8050
Email: wfgstore@lm.net.au