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For so many families across the Murraylands, the river isn’t just a place — it’s a lifestyle. It’s where kids learn to ski, where long weekends turn into BBQs on the deck, and where generations come together in a way that doesn’t happen anywhere else.
But the 2022 floods changed everything. Homes were damaged, plans were paused, and a lot of precious time on the river has been lost.
At Stannard Family Homes, we meet families every week who are ready to come home to the river — but feel unsure of where to start. The truth is, rebuilding or building along the river doesn’t have to be overwhelming. And right now is the best time to take action.
Time Slips Away Faster Than You Think
One of the biggest misconceptions about building is how long it takes to get started. Many people assume you choose a plan, sign a contract, and construction begins straight away.
But real life looks very different.
Before a build can begin, you’ll move through:
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Design and engineering
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Council approvals
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Selections and documentation
These steps alone can take four to six months — before a shovel even touches the ground.
If you’re dreaming of being back on the river by next summer, delaying even a little could mean missing another full season.
As Ryan, our Director, puts it:
“I spent the whole summer of 2022, when the floods came through, without being on the river — and it nearly killed me.”
You can’t get that time back — and for families still trying to rebuild, the emotional cost often outweighs the financial one.
You Can't Get These Moments Back
Think about the summers that have passed.
The boat stayed on the trailer.
The spontaneous BBQs never happened.
The kids and grandkids got older — fast.
Kids grow quickly. Memories don’t wait.
And the river has a way of bringing families together like nowhere else.
These aren’t just lifestyle privileges — they’re the moments that shape childhoods, deepen connection, and stay with your family forever.
If the river is part of who you are, being away from it doesn’t feel temporary. It feels like missing a piece of your life.
Listen to Ryan Stannard's Latest YouTube video about why now is the best time to start you rebuild of your shack!
The River Community Is Rebuilding, Be Part of the Momentum
Across the Murraylands, something meaningful is happening.
New homes are rising.
Jetties are being restored.
Families are returning to their stretch of river and reclaiming what they lost.
But this comeback has created a new challenge:
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Demand is increasing
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Approval timeframes are lengthening
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Build queues are growing
The families who start now will be the ones back on the water next season.
Those who wait — even unintentionally — risk another year watching from the sidelines.
Your River Home Designed Just for you.
At Stannard Family Homes, every river home we build is fully custom — designed specifically for your block, your lifestyle, your family, and the way you use the river.
No templates.
No generic layouts.
No compromises.
Your home is designed to:
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Capture your river views
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Maximise your outdoor and deck-life experience
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Fit your boat, your jetty, your storage needs
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Support multi-generational living
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Reflect the way your family uses the water
Whether you’re rebuilding after the floods, upgrading what you had, or creating the river home you've always dreamed of, our team will guide you through every step of the journey — from initial concepts to council approvals to construction.
With clear communication, local experience, and a deep understanding of Murraylands living, we make the process feel achievable, supportive, and exciting.
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Let's Get Your Family Back Where You Belong
Ryan says it best:
“I’d love nothing more than to see your family back enjoying the river the way it should be.”
We’re locals. We live the river lifestyle too.
If you see us building along your stretch of the river, in Mannum, or around town — stop us and say hello. Ask questions. Tell us what you’re dreaming of.
Your next summer on the river could be closer than you think…
But only if you start now.
Enquire now or download our Murraylands Brochure, and take the first step back to the memories, the moments, and the Murraylands life your family loves.
