Of all the seasons to span a year, springtime might just be our favourite when it comes to planning a getaway to the townships North of the Murray.
Perhaps it’s because this part of the world is blooming with flora, fauna and other colourful gifts from nature as it stirs from its winter slumber…. Or that the events calendar is bursting at the seams with exhibitions, live music, markets and shows.
Either way, it’s the perfect destination, and time of year, to shake off the shackles of a long, cold winter, and to awaken our adventurous souls.
Fields of Gold
Is there an outback Australian landscape more breathtaking than one that is painted in gold? The stunning expanse of golden canola paddocks that line the country roads around the townships of Corowa, Howlong, Mulwala and Urana during spring, truly are a vision to behold.
These vibrant fields of yellow stretch as far as the eye can see - a mesmerising sight that perfectly captures the essence of rural beauty and the rich agricultural heritage of this region. Whether you're an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the canola paddocks North of The Murray will bring a smile to your heart. Canola fields bloom from late August to early October, but our best tip for witnessing this breathtaking spectacle is to visit during the peak bloom in September.
Birdsong, Blooms and Wildlife
Springtime is the very best season for getting up close and personal with the diverse offerings of flora and fauna North of the Murray.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher or nature buff, you’ll love exploring the many parks, wetlands and nature reserves that dot the river and surrounding villages of this region.
In Corowa, you’ll find the Whitehead Street Wetlands (near the car wash) and the River Street Wetlands, (south of the township) both home to an abundance of birdlife, rare wetland plants and the endangered Sloane’s Froglet. If you do visit these wetlands be sure to keep your eyes peeled for brolgas - one of the unique and diverse native Australian birds found in the region, and the ever-so-pretty Billy Button, which flowers here in spring.
Just outside of Corowa is the Redland Hills Nature Reserve, an environmentally protected flora and fauna reserve that boasts an impressive Indigenous and colonial history. Here you’ll find four easy walking trails to explore that are signposted with insights into the reserve’s environment, plants and animals.
During your nature travels, be sure to visit the Aquatic Centre at Urana, a man-made lake developed on the original site of the town’s water supply reservoir, and the Urana Free Flight Bird Aviary which boasts an impressively large flight area and a shady ground where you can enjoy a lakeside picnic as you watch the colourful birdlife. There’s a lovely walking trail that starts at the aviary and meanders around the Urana Aquatic Centre past the native birds and animals.
At Mulwala, Gorman Park boasts 110 acres of beautiful natural bushland on the banks of the Murray River, and is another popular stop to see local birdlife. It’s also a great location to take a wander or ride along the walking and cycling trails.
While in town, you’ll find Kyffins Reserve on the banks of the lake, which is a stellar spot to throw in a line, pitch a tent or take a bush walk.
Venturing towards Howlong, the town’s Memorial Park is set on a picturesque foreshore that is perfect for family gatherings, child’s play, picnics and fishing. If you visit, be sure to explore the Enchanted Hut and Garden in the park, which provides a whimsical world of magical creatures that will delight both the young, and young at heart.
Art on the Move - Sculpture Trail Adventures
Nothing beats travelling the backroads North of the Murray, and the region’s celebrated sculpture trail gives you the perfect excuse to roll down the windows and get motoring.
You can take the 365km circular route to discover the story of the region told in murals and sculptures, or you can choose your own path and enjoy other highlights along the way.
Some of our favourites include Andrew Whitehead’s Shearing the Rams sculpture in Lowesdale, his Not So Itsy Spider on the side of the Urana Water Tower, The Swagman and Rusty sculpture at Boree Creek, the Toolbox Horse and Jockey sculpture at Morundah, and the Brolgas sculpture in the heart of Corowa.
Tee Time Delights
No trip North of the Murray could ever be complete without some time set aside for a leisurely swing and giggle. Spring is the perfect time to dust off your golf bag and get out in the sunshine for some much needed Vitamin D, gentle exercise, and of course some healthy competition.
You’ll find all you need to scratch your golfing itch at the following destinations:
Corowa Golf Club - includes a championship 18 hole golf course and fully licensed club, onsite motel and luxury cinema with the latest release movies.
Howlong Golf Resort - located on the Murray, this community focused golf club and resort boasts an 18 hole course that is a pleasure to play, and offers a tight and challenging layout suitable for all abilities.
Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort - a golfer’s paradise with three courses (45 holes), a driving range, stunning clubhouse, lounge, dining, live entertainment, 68 stylish self-contained units and the Yarra Golf Cinema - a luxury cinema experience on the Murray.
Springtime Events & Festivals
If forest bathing, sculpture hunting, birdwatching and golfing has left you thirsting for more of this beautiful part of the world, we highly recommend you get along to one of the many events, exhibitions and markets happening across the region during the spring months. These events bring together all that is seasonal, regional and unique about produce, art and culture North of the Murray.
Some of the highlights include:
Bald Archy Corowa - Australia’s premier satirical art prize, (the Bald Archy), on exhibition at Corowa Art Space. Sep 7 - October 6.
Urana Courthouse Art Exhibition and Sale - A Vibrant annual art show in the historic courthouse renowned for its successful sale rate. Oct 10 -13.
Corowa Car & Bike Show ‘N Shine - cars, bikes and emergency vehicles on display as well as food, drinks and music. Sun Sep 8 at the RSL Park.
Urana Vintage Machinery Rally - showcasing all kinds of vintage machinery. Sat Oct 19 - Sun Oct 20.
Corowa Rotary Federation Farmers & Variety Market - held on the first Sunday of each month at Bangerang Park.
Rutherglen Market - held on the second Sunday of every month.
Yarrawonga Farmers and Craft Market - A Make It - Bake It - Sew It - Grow It market held on the fourth Sunday of each month from 8am -12.30pm.
Yarrawonga Mulwala Rotary Club Market - held every third Sunday of the month from March until October.
Club Corowa Concert Series - Choirboys + Dragon - two incredible Australian rock bands, one spectacular night of music. Sat September 21.
Corowa Festival of Dance - four days of social dance events plus live and free music at licenced clubs and wineries. Thurs October 3 - Sun October 6
Corowa Spring Music and Market Festival - three days and nights of entertainment by 16 wonderful entertainers as well as craft and market stalls, and food vans. Fri August 30 - Sun September 1 at Corowa Golf Club.
Yarrawonga Mulwala Agricultural Show - horse competitions, carnival rides, food vans, fireworks, animal nursery, horse & carriage rides, tractor displays, craft & face painting, flower displays and market stalls. Friday Oct 4 - Saturday Oct 5.
Corowa Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Show - family activities, competitions, displays, baby animals, rides and sideshow alley activities. Sunday Oct 13.
Rutherglen Annual Agricultural Show - full horse program, cattle handling/parading, sheep & fleece exhibits, dog jumping, ferret racing, market stalls, farm produce, poultry exhibits, competitions, arts, crafts and horticulture. Sun Oct 20.
Now that’s one heck of a spring getaway itinerary if we do say so ourselves - your personal guide for planning a day trip, long weekend or entire school holiday adventure. Whatever takes your fancy, come play with us North of the Murray this spring, for a guaranteed, bloomin’ good time.
Sign up & we'll send you our latest events and deals in the region. No spam, promise!
