Tradition kept alive at Armfield Wooden Boats

A short walk along the river from the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival precinct at Goolwa Wharf sits one of the River Murray's true treasures, the historic Armfield Slipway & Boatshed.

Established by the Armfield family in 1926, the boatshed has played an important role in Goolwa's boating history for generations. Purchased by Alexandrina Council in 1986, it continues to operate today thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers and passionate craftspeople committed to preserving the art of traditional wooden boat building.

More than just a workshop, Armfield Slipway & Boatshed is a vibrant community hub where heritage skills are practised, shared and celebrated. Volunteers undertake boat restoration projects, maintain traditional boat-building knowledge and welcome visitors who are curious to learn more about the rich river history of the region.

For many visitors, a trip to Armfield’s is a highlight of the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival. It is always a pleasure to spend time with the volunteer team, hearing stories of the festival's origins, learning about historic vessels and gaining insight into the craftsmanship required to build and restore wooden boats.

Their mission is simple but significant: to protect the legacy of historic wooden boats, keep traditional boat-building techniques alive and create a welcoming place for people who share a love of boats and river heritage.

When the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival returns to Goolwa, Armfield’s will once again proudly showcase its craftsmanship and community spirit. Whether you're a lifelong boating enthusiast or simply curious about the region's maritime heritage, Armfield Slipway & Boatshed is well worth a visit.