Just outside the twin towns of Barham Koondrook, nestled among rows of lush, green avocado trees, you’ll find Katrina Myers. Farmer, retreat host, sustainability advocate and passionate community contributor; Katrina’s love for this patch of The Murray runs deep.
Originally her family’s farm, Katrina and her husband Tim returned to the property after years living and travelling overseas.
With four kids in tow and an impressive orchard to manage, they’re continuing a family legacy — one that’s rooted in connection to the land, care for the environment and a deep respect for their local community.
Katrina’s parents first bought the farm in the early 1970s. After deciding against a more “sensible” vet business venture, she and Tim are proud to carry it forward.
It’s not just talk. Sustainability is at the core of their farming approach, from a soil-first mindset to minimal chemical use and ongoing water monitoring. They’ve even trialled a retractable-roof greenhouse to reduce water usage.
Here you’ll also find Lost and Found Retreat, the property’s welcoming accommodation, thoughtfully designed to reflect and respect its rural surroundings.
Staying among the trees is calming enough, but guests have started arriving for a slightly more unexpected reason: the stars.
“People always say to us when they stay here ‘the skies are so amazing’ because there's such low light pollution. [They] research where the low light pollution areas are…When you live in the city, you just don't get to see the stars. It’s something that we take for granted here.”
The area around Barham Koondrook has long been a favourite for riverside camping, fishing and outdoor escapes — but there’s more for visitors than many realise.
There are foodie finds and relaxed adventures around every corner. Katrina recommends a sunset barby boat cruise (while she has her own, you can hire one further east) at Lake Mulwala, the Long Paddock Food Store in Koondrook, or a meal at The Timbercutter in Mathoura.
Closer to home, you’ll find the local Mates Royal Hotel (“a classic quintessential old pub — you can't go wrong there”) and more farm experiences like Bundarra Berkshires.
Just an hour away, Echuca Moama offers paddlesteamers, riverside dining and plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
Katrina’s impact stretches well beyond the farm gates. She’s been involved in everything from founding the local farmers market to hosting long lunches under the trees and serving on the board of Destination Riverina Murray.
Whether she’s supporting local events or helping visitors connect with where their food comes from, she sees community connection as central to the region’s charm.
Katrina speaks with clarity and warmth about the slower pace of life along the river and the sense of grounding that comes from being part of a small, connected community.
And it’s that kind of simple, connected living that she believes more and more people are looking to experience. But her strongest connection is to the land and the responsibility that comes with it.
Whether she’s growing avocados, welcoming guests or advocating for sustainable tourism, Katrina brings a quiet dedication to everything she does, grounded in connection, care and deep respect for this place.
Take an easy, flat stroll along the Barham Boardwalk. Built by a dedicated team of community volunteers, the project took 10 years to complete, opening to the public in…
Starting at Riverside Park Boardwalk, you’ll find two hand-carved red gum sculptures – the Pioneer Woman and Sir John Monash (chief engineer of the nearby bridge and later famed…
Born of a love of wine, Barham Vines is a small family-owned vineyard at the heart of the Murray River Country.Planted in 2012, the established vines are the only commercially…
Founded in 1995, The Border Flywheeler’s Club is dedicated to the collection, restoration, and exhibition of tractors, machinery, engines, and other historical artefacts from the…
Bundarra Berkshires is a small 100 per cent free-range Berkshire Pork farm on the edge of the Koondrook State Forest and mighty Murray River. Lachlan and Lauren began their…
Clubarham Golf and Sports is known as one of the major golfing destinations along the Murray River. The golf club is continually working to improve and redefine the existing…
The Goanna Walking Trail incorporates the Gunbower Creek Footbridge in a 3.2km looped walking track through the Gunbower State Forest. It returns to the centre of town via…
Take a leisurely stroll down the Redgum Statue walk as it meanders along the banks of the Murray River through the towns of Koondrook and Barham.Admire the exceptional…
Koondrook Wharf is more than just a wharf; it is a place to experience and reconnects the town to the mighty Murray River. It not only provides a greater connection between the…
Set among the avocado orchard near the small country town of Barham on The Murray River, this is a unique and exclusive place to unwind and escape it all. Enjoy Carlotta and Gee…
The Timbercutter has the Red Gum Cafe, Bar and Function Venue overlooking the junction of the Murray and Edward Rivers in Mathoura, the jewel of the Murray River. The venue…
This blog is part of the latest season in our Mates of The Murray series — a celebration of the people at the heart of our region. We’re spotlighting local operators whose passion, creativity and everyday efforts help shape The Murray, not just as a place to visit, but as a place to belong. It’s not about events or must-see spots. It’s about people, stories and the connections that tie our region together.
Follow along on Facebook and Instagram to meet more of our mates or subscribe to our emails for more stories from across The Murray
Sign up & we'll send you our latest events and deals in the region. No spam, promise!