Winter Reclaimed: Why you need a "North of the Murray" escape this season

When the frost settles and the air turns crisp, most people head indoors. But North of the Murray, winter isn't a time to hide, it’s a time to celebrate.

Stretching across the charming towns of Corowa, Howlong, Mulwala and Northern Villages, this region transforms into a soulful sanctuary of crackling fires, world-class spirits, and a calendar of events that will make you forget all about the summer sun.

If you’re looking for a reason to pack the car this Winter 2026, here is why the North of the Murray is calling.

Kayak on Murray River Winter Fishing on Murray River

Events that bring the heat

A Calendar brimming with action

Winter North of the Murray is famous for two events that draw visitors from across the country.

ROAM Rutherglen Winery Walkabout (June 6–7, 2026)

Dust off your boldest festival outfits! This is Australia’s longest-running wine festival, reimagined with big energy, live DJs, and masterclasses across the region's iconic cellar doors.

Find out more...

Whisky on the Murray (June 19–20, 2026)

Held at the stunning Corowa Distilling Co, this event is a pilgrimage for spirit lovers. Sip on rare drams, meet the distillers, and enjoy the "barrel firing" demonstrations that light up the winter night.

Find out more...

Winter Events

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Event
Jul 26th

Urana Bird Sale

Caged birds from many parts of Australia are bought and sold in the historic Urana Soldier's Memorial Hall. This event is a fundraiser for Urana Progress Association.

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Event
Jul 31st – Nov 27th

Super Tuscan Friday at James and Co

Fridays just got a whole lot tastier in Rutherglen. James & Co. Wines, an urban cellar door with a difference, teams up with Pizza By Five Letters for Super Tuscan Friday, a night of Italian-style pizza, cool climate Sangiovese, and…

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Event
Aug 1st

Museum Dinner

Join Eliza, Angela and Nick Brown at KIN Restaurant for an exclusive evening celebrating the conclusion of our annual Museum Release.For one night only, the Brown siblings will unlock the Family Cellar to share a selection of rare wines…

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Event
Aug 1st – Dec 5th

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…

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Event
Aug 6th – Sep 3rd

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…

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Event
Aug 7th – Aug 16th

The Dark Side of Wine

Dark Side of Wine. Ten nights. Fire and candlelight across one of Australia's most storied wine regions.Step inside a heritage castle lit by thousands of candles for a live performance inside walls that have stood since the gold rush.…

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Event
Aug 9th

Secret Cinema - A Dark Side of Wine Event

A pop up secret cinema for one day only.There are two movie sessions on this day. The first is a family friendly afternoon of entertainment with the screening of the family movie 'A Minecraft Movie'. Doors open at 4:00 PM and the movie…

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Event
Aug 14th

Legacy Dinner: A Collaborative Dining Experience

Join four iconic winemaking families for a decadent four-course dinner that highlights the unique flair of each cellar. Pull up a chair for the return of the Legacy Dinner, a truly unique event where four of Rutherglen's most respected…

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Event
Aug 15th

L.J. Dinner

Join Jones Winery for the famous L.J. Dinner this August. Enjoy a sumptuous menu of several courses created by Briony Bradford matched with wines made by Mandy and Arthur.This year Jones Winery and Vineyard released the Jones Winery and…

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Event
Aug 15th

Vertigo U2 Experience

Vertigo – The U2 Experience.Experience the music of one of the world's greatest rock bands when Vertigo – The U2 Experience performs live at the Mulwala Water Ski Club.Hailing from Adelaide, Vertigo has earned a reputation as Australia's…

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Event
Aug 15th

Dark and Perfect: A Century of Fortified

As part of the Dark Side of Wine Festival, descend beneath All Saints Estate into the private underground Family Cellar for an experience granted to very few. Head Winemaker and owner Nick Brown will personally guide you through two…

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Event
Aug 22nd

Fleetwood Max Australia's Premier Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Fleetwood Max – Australia's Premier Fleetwood Mac Tribute.Relive the timeless music of one of the world's most iconic bands when Fleetwood Max – Australia's Premier Fleetwood Mac Tribute performs live at the Mulwala Water Ski Club.Renowned…

Slow food & fireside feasts

There is nothing quite like a country pub or a boutique cafe in the middle of winter. The region’s food scene leans into "comfort" during the cooler months.

Nature in its quietest hour

While the Murray is a playground in summer, it becomes a peaceful masterpiece in winter.

The Ghost Gums of Lake Mulwala: Take a morning walk along the foreshore or hop on a P.S. Cumberoona cruise. The sight of the skeleton trees rising from the morning fog is hauntingly beautiful.

Golfing Greatness: With the Corowa, Howlong, and Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Resorts, you have the "ultimate golfing hat trick." The greens are lush, the air is fresh, and the post-round drink by the clubhouse fire tastes just a little bit better.

Lake Mulwala Boatel Winter family in chairs by river

Tips for your visit

Pack in Layers: The days are often clear and blue, but once the sun dips, you’ll want a heavy coat for those bonfire nights.

Follow the Trails: Explore the Shearing the Rams trail or the local history walks to discover the rich Federation history that started right here in Corowa.

Local Secret: Head to Bangerang Park on the first Sunday of the month for the Corowa Rotary Farmers Market. It's the best place to stock up on winter citrus, local honey, and handmade scarves.

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