Today, RDABGLAP and the City of Playford co-hosted a Growth Council Study Tour, offering council representatives a firsthand look at community planning and infrastructure across Playford’s key growth areas. Travelling by bus, attendees gained valuable insights into local developments and strategic planning considerations.
The tour included stops at Riverlea (planned for over 12,000 homes), Villawood’s St Andrews (a 700-lot community), and other notable areas such as SCT Logistics, Miravale Estate, and Munno Para West. Participants observed housing diversity—from single and double-storey homes to townhouses and apartments—alongside practical planning approaches for floodplains, such as water-diverting trenches and infrastructure that supports safe, sustainable growth. Landscaping, unique green spaces, and community amenities like parks and walkways were also highlighted as essential for building vibrant and connected neighbourhoods.
An impactful presentation from Brian Virgo, General Manager of Riverlea Park at Walker Corporation, sparked thoughtful discussions on urban development, encouraging council representatives to consider the balance between growth and livability.
Attending Councils and Organisations
- Light Regional Council: Kieren Chappell
- Town of Gawler: Chris Hannaford, Bryce Norton, David Barrett, Kirsty Dudley
- Adelaide Plains Council: David Bailey, Brendon Schulz
- Barossa Council: Natasha Weedon, Ben Clarke, Michelle Chambers, Steven Kaesler
- Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains (RDA BGLAP): Grace Trimboli, Nathan Little, Sue Merry
- City of Playford Hosts: Matt Dineen, Leif Burdon, Ben Woodrow, Luis Lafosse, Greg Pattinson
Thank you to Brian Virgo, General Manager of Riverlea Park at the Walker Corporation, and Villawood Properties for their insightful presentations.
This collaborative experience underscored the value of RDABGLAP’s role in connecting councils, fostering shared learning, and supporting thoughtful, sustainable regional development.
Watch the video highlights below:
