Golden Hours, Simple Pleasures
Your Ultimate Spring Guide to the North of the Murray
Experience the simple pleasures of a spring escape
As the winter chill recedes, the North of the Murray transforms into a glowing landscape of golden hues, sun drenched waters and vibrant country energy. If you are searching for the best canola fields in the Murray region or planning iconic spring weekend drives from Melbourne, now is the perfect time to pack your bags.
From glowing landscapes to roaring engines and lakeside afternoons, experience the simple pleasures of a spring escape.
Spring lights up the region’s landscape with incredible natural displays.
- Panoramic views: Take a scenic drive to Redlands Hill Flora & Fauna Reserve near Corowa. The reserve boasts four walking trails with interpretative signage to provide insights into the environment, plants and animals. A replica ‘Shearing Shed’ is on site to mark the spot where one of Tom Roberts sketches from 1888 resulted in the Internationally renowned Shearing the Rams painting. Follow the Shearing the Rams trail and see the spectacular sculpture located in Lowesdale.
- Lakeside & aquatic sanctuaries: Head to the Urana Aquatic Centre for a relaxing afternoon on the water, or set up a sunset picnic at Kyffins Reserve along the shores of Lake Mulwala. Murray River locations in Corowa and Howlong including the Corowa Lagoon with its sandy beach provide perfect locations to watch the reflection of the setting sun.
- Canola fields: Our region comes alive each season with sprawling canola fields, covering the landscape in a brilliant, breathtaking blanket of vibrant yellow blossoms.
Wildlife & birdwatching hotspots
Spring brings the region's nature tracks alive with birdsong.
The wetlands around Urana and the tranquil bends and wetlands of the Murray River serve as vital ecosystems for native species. Grab your binoculars and head to Kyffins Reserve or the timbered creeks of Gormans Park early in the morning. You can spot vibrant kingfishers, wedge-tailed eagles, yellow-billed spoonbills and flocks of cockatoos taking flight against the morning sky.
Birdwatching locations
Gorman Park
Explore the stunning outdoors North of the Murray. Gorman Park in Mulwala boasts 110 acres of beautiful natural bushland on the banks of the Murray river, New South Wales. A community group named the Grove Trustees, now called Alexandra…
Howlong Common
Located on the banks of the Murray River, Howlong's permanent Common was dedicated in 1870. The Common is a significant part of British heritage, as are other commons to be found North of the Murray. The land is owned by the State and is…
Kyffins Reserve Mulwala
Kyffins Reserve offers over one kilometre of shoreline and bush camping and walking tracks, on the banks of Lake Mulwala.Located approximately four kilometres east of the Mulwala township, on Lake Mulwala with access via Corowa Road. There…
Lake Mulwala
Experience the idyllic waterways North of the Murray. Lake Mulwala is an unforgettable sight with its majestic and ghostly river red gums and offers a range of activities for visitors and locals alike.Water-based activities are a focal…
River Street Wetlands
The River Street Wetlands are located in south Corowa and are bordered by a well-used bike path and neighbouring urban dwellings. A number of frogs inhabit the wetlands, however of importance is the Sloane's froglet (Crinia sloanei) - a…
Urana Aquatic Centre
The Urana Aquatic Centre is a man-made lake developed on the original site of the town’s water supply reservoir perfect for water skiing, fishing, bird watching and just about any other water activity you can think of.With the play…
Whitehead Street Wetlands
Close to the heart of Corowa and accessible via easy walking trails, the Whitehead Street Wetlands is a beautiful example of seasonal wetlands and grey box woodlands. Wander the paths that meander through the wetlands, a great location for…
Fairways & golden hours for Golf
Spring golf in the North of the Murray is an absolute highlight. The crisp morning air gives way to warm, sunny afternoons ideal for hitting the fairways.
Enjoy championship 18 hole courses set alongside the Murray, where golf is played at a relaxed, friendly pace. Experience this at the Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Resort, Howlong Golf Resort and Corowa Golf Club.
Families can also enjoy Mini Golf on the Murray, a 18-hole course designed for fun, challenge and plenty of laughs.
Golf courses
Black Bull Golf Course at Silverwoods Resort Yarrawonga
Set amid 400 acres of stunning Australian paradise, on the banks of iconic Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is Black Bull 18-hole Championship Golf Course designed by course Architects Peter Thomson, Ross Perrett.This par 72 course has…
Howlong Golf Resort
This superb 18-hole golf course appeals to all golfers. It's a challenge and you will relish a friendly round with your peers. The relatively flat course is in immaculate condition and is regarded as one of the best all-weather courses in…
Mini Golf on the Murray
Experience the ultimate day out with Mini Golf on The Murray — an 18-hole mini golf course designed for fun, challenge, and plenty of laughs. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, it's the ideal activity before dinner at the club or…
Urana Golf Course
This community owned and managed golf course is perfect for afternoon entertainment. In 2016, a seven hole course with synthetic greens and locally manufactured seating was created around JM Smith Flora and Fauna Reserve. A further two…
Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort
Placed between the iconic Murray River and beautiful Lake Mulwala on the border of New South Wales and Victoria, Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort provides a golfing experience like no other.Sharing the landscape with historic River Red…
Events & Festivals
Spring is packed with high octane events, community culture and local celebrations across the region. Our highlights include:
- Corowa & District Car Club Car & Bike Show & Shine: A paradise for motor enthusiasts featuring immaculate vintage cars, hot rods and classic bikes.
- Urana Art Exhibition & Sale: Celebrate regional talent with a vibrant showcase of paintings, sculptures, and crafts from local artists.
- Massive Murray Paddle: Watch or participate in one of the longest paddle races in the world as kayaks and canoes glide down the iconic river.
- Corowa Melbourne Cup Race Meeting: Dress up and experience regional racing at its finest.
- Lake Mulwala Rod Run: Experience a weekend of chrome, horsepower, and lakeside nostalgia as hot rods line the shore.
- Live Music at Local Venues: Every weekend, local pubs, cellar doors, and waterfront clubs play host to acoustic sets, country bands, and live entertainment.
Highlights
Rutherglen Wine Show Presentation Dinner
Come and sample the newly crowned award-winning wines from this year's Rutherglen Wine Show and Australian Fortified Wine Show and hear first-hand from the vignerons in attendance.Enjoy a six-course dining experience at De Bortoli's…
American Barbeque Pop Up
After two sell-out events, they are firing up the smokers once again for an exclusive, one-night-only Authentic American Barbeque Pop-Up. If you missed out last time (or you've just been dreaming about that brisket ever since), this is…
Sri Lanka at Jones
Experience the vibrant flavours of Sri Lanka with a touch of French flair at Jones Winery Restaurant. The Inspiration comes from their Sri Lankan Sous Chef. This special lunch and dinner menu brings an authentic connection to Sri Lankan…
Sip and Shop Sunday
De Bortoli Rutherglen Estate is thrilled to be working with the girls from Revive Markets to host a pop-up Revive Fashion Market right in their courtyard. Whether you're hunting for a unique statement piece or just want to enjoy some live…
North East Nights at The Victoria Rutherglen
North East Nights at The Victoria Rutherglen is a new monthly series celebrating the best of North East Victoria. Where great music, local produce and relaxed evenings come together.Bringing the piano bar experience to Rutherglen, Paul…
'They Didn't Fit' Exhibition
Explore the variety of artwork that Master Lino Block carver, Christine Upton, has produced over the last 10 years.There are 26 original and beautifully framed relief block works are in this exhibition because they would not fit in her…
Music on the Murray at St Leonards Vineyard
Join St Leonards Vineyard on the first Saturday of every month for Music on the Murray, a relaxed afternoon of live music set against the picturesque Murray River.Settle in with a glass of St Leonards wine and enjoy talented live artists…
Corowa Rotary Federation Farmers and Variety Market
Come and join Corowa Rotary on the first Sunday of each month, at Bangerang Park in Corowa, for a great family day out.There will be a great range of stalls selling a variety of goods including; garden ornaments, plants, tools, candles,…
Father's Day at Cofield Wines
Celebrate Father's Day on the lawn at Cofield Wines.Enjoy live music with Riff, complimentary wine tastings inside the cellar door, lawn games, jumping castles, and face painting. There will be a quartz pop-up on the lawn and an outdoor…
Father's Day Music on the Murray
Celebrate Father's Day with the whole family at St Leonards Vineyard in Rutherglen with an afternoon of live music, lunch and relaxed riverside dining at their much-loved Music on the Murray event.Settle in by the banks of the Murray River…
Father's Day Lunch Cruise
This Father's Day, join the Cumberoona Crew for a two hour lunch cruise on Lake Mulwala enjoying the views and sounds of a traditional Australian Paddlesteamer with a delicious barbeque with Dad.A fully licensed bar is on board, fully…
Bald Archy Prize at Corowa Art Space
The notoriously hilarious and irreverent Bald Archy Prize is making its much-anticipated return to Corowa. Celebrating the lighter side of art and the larrikin Australian spirit, the prize calls for paintings that embrace wit, slapstick,…
The Ultimate 3 Day Spring road trip Itinerary
Escape the city hustle and clear your weekend schedule for the ultimate springtime escape along the Murray River region. Packed with rich federation history, world class golf, vibrant local art, and glowing golden landscapes, this 3 day itinerary takes you through the heart of Corowa, Urana, Mulwala and Howlong for an unforgettable regional road trip.
Day 1: Corowa historic charm & sunset views
- Morning: Drive in from Melbourne (approx. 3 hours) straight to Corowa Distilling Co. Enjoy brunch in their historic premises and sample locally crafted whisky and chocolates.
- Afternoon: Take the scenic backroads past glowing canola fields to Redlands Hill Flora & Fauna Reserve or explore the Birthplace of Federation history at the Corowa Federation Museum.
- Evening: Check into your Corowa accommodation, then head to D’amico’s Restaurant or Club Corowa for dinner.
Day 2: Art, aquatic parks & country hospitality
- Morning: Drive north to Urana. Visit the Urana Art Exhibition (if visiting during event weekend) or stretch your legs along the walking tracks around Urana Aquatic Centre. Don’t miss experiencing the Sculpture Trail. Urana Courthouse Museum (Tues & Sat).
- Afternoon: Return towards Mulwala and stop at Kyffins Reserve for birdwatching and a peaceful lakeside stroll under the gum trees or a scenic afternoon boat cruise on Lake Mulwala.
- Evening: Head to the Mulwala Water Ski Club for waterfront dining, Laser light and sound show and live music as the sunsets over Lake Mulwala.
Day 3: Fairways & river life
- Morning: Tee off for an early morning 9 or 18 holes at the Howlong Golf Resort.
- Lunch: Pick up gourmet provisions from ½ Acre Coffee Lounge or Howlong Bakery in and head to Memorial Park Howlong for a relaxing riverside picnic.
- Afternoon: End your weekend with a stop at one of the region’s wineries located in Rutherglen.
Destinations
Corowa & Surrounds
Nestled on the majestic Murray River, Corowa is a historic town and regional hub bursting with experiences. From thrilling water sports and land…
Howlong
Renowned as one of the top spots to cast a line for that elusive Murray Cod, it promises hours of fun for families and keen anglers alike. Beyond…
Mulwala & Surrounds
Lake Mulwala’s water-based activities are a focal point, but this country town is also busy with festivals and events, markets and live shows.…
Urana
Nestled between the mighty Murrumbidgee to the north and the Murray River to the south, Urana is a charming township brimming with character. The…
Oaklands
In the heart of cropping country, this small township is an absolute gem for the agricultural buff and anyone who is after the best country…
Rural Villages
Discover hidden gems when you visit our rural villages which may be small, but they sure make up for it in their rich history and country…
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