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
Aug 28th – Dec 6th

'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…

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Event
Aug 28th – 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
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
Sep 5th – 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
Sep 6th 2026 – Jan 3rd 2027

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,…

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Event
Sep 6th

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…

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Event
Sep 6th

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…

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Event
Sep 6th

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…

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Event
Sep 12th – Oct 11th

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,…

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Event
Sep 13th 2026 – Dec 12th 2027

Rutherglen Market

Discover the heart and flavour of North-East Victoria at the vibrant Rutherglen Market, where everything is seasonal, regional, and beautifully crafted. Held on the second Sunday of every month, this much-loved market brings together a…

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Event
Sep 13th

Corowa and District Car Club - Car and Bike Show & Shine

Head down to RSL Park, John Street, Corowa for a fantastic day celebrating some incredible cars and bikes!There are 45 trophies are up for grabs, so there's plenty to see and compete for.Don't forget to cast your vote for your favourite…

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Sep 24th – Sep 30th

Pirates of the Cumberoona

Back by popular demand. Help the Pirates of the Cumberoona search for Lake Mulwala's treasure this school holidays.Enjoy a great family fun one hour cruise filled with pirate themed activities all aboard a traditional authentic…

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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