The Murray region is filled with experiences that connect you to land, waterways and local communities. It’s a place to slow down, explore, and spend time in destinations shaped by the river and the people who live here. Being a Mate of the Murray is all about enjoying your trip while showing respect for the places and people that make this region so special.
Here’s how your visit can make a positive impact.
Every corner of the Murray region, from busy streets to national parks, thrive when visitors leave only footprints. Taking everything you brought with you, even the small things, helps keep our region safe for wildlife and welcoming for everyone.
Carrying rubbish with you when bins aren’t available helps look after our region and its environment. When you leave no trace, you are helping make The Murray an even better place for the next visitor to enjoy.
"To me, being a Mate of the Murray really just means looking after and protecting the land. When you come to the Murray region, it's just about treating it like you would your own home, respecting it, looking after it, not leaving rubbish behind and all those sorts of things, and just really enjoying it" - Katrina Myers, Barham Avocados/Lost and Found Retreat
Following marked tracks and trails is one of the easiest ways to care for the Murray region. They are designed to protect plants, wildlife and sensitive areas, while also helping you find the best views and points of interest safely.
The same goes for exploring towns, local attractions and event spaces. Sticking to set paths and public areas helps everyone enjoy the region and shows respect for the environment and those who call it home.
“When visitors stick to designated tracks and trails, it shows respect for the land and for the local communities who care for it year-round. It’s a simple choice that makes a big difference.” - Peter Kelly, Murray Offroad Adventures
The heart of the Murray region is its people. Taking the time to chat with locals, support small businesses and find out what’s important to the area helps communities thrive.
These moments of genuine connection often become the most memorable parts of a trip and help keep The Murray a friendly and inviting place for everyone.
"It's about contributing. You don't need to live somewhere to be a local. You just need to contribute to a community. It makes you a local, makes you a Mate of the Murray" - Norm Carl, Gerogery Hotel
The Murray region can be dry, especially in the warmer months, so being aware of fire danger and following local guidelines helps keep everyone safe.
Checking current fire conditions, sticking to safe areas for cooking or campfires, and following any restrictions lets you enjoy your visit confidently while protecting the environment and local communities.
Stay up to date with the latest restrictions:
Camping is one of the best ways to experience The Murray, and choosing the right spot helps make your stay and the region enjoyable for everyone.
Using designated campsites and following bookings keeps the area welcoming, while being considerate of fellow campers and leaving your space clean lets everyone relax and enjoy the outdoors.
“We used to come to Swan Hill and get a caravan and go up to Mildura and camp with the kids, so that's another lovely area…we used to go visit the forests and take the kids walking and fishing. We've camped out around Barham way as well and spent many times on the lakes.” - Gary & Izzy, Chasney Estate (on how they fell in love with the region)
From kangaroos and koalas to waterbirds and lizards, the Murray is full of wildlife. Observing animals from a distance lets them go about their day naturally and keeps you safe too.
Watching them in their natural habitat is a quiet reminder of the incredible life that thrives across the region.
“This area is absolutely loaded with inspiration…The Murray region, it's a beautiful place. It's calming. It's serene, it's picturesque. But it also has a lot of natural energy" - Alison Percy, Local Artist
The Murray has been cared for by First Nations people for tens of thousands of years. Visiting cultural sites with respect and learning stories of the land adds depth to your journey.
Taking the time to understand the connection between people, country and waterways makes your visit even more meaningful.
"If you're going to be a Mate of the Murray, you've got to be able to drop your guard, turn your ears on and be prepared to listen to the locals" - Uncle Dozer Atkinson, Bullanginya Dreaming
Being a Mate of the Murray is about simple, thoughtful choices that help protect everything that makes the Murray shine. Whether it is supporting a local café, sticking to a trail, giving wildlife space or keeping a picnic spot clean, every small action adds up. In return, you get to enjoy a place that feels just as welcoming and beautiful for your next visit and for those who come after you.
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