Bordered by NSW and South Australia in the far northwest corner of Victoria, striking contrasts dominate the landscape.
Set against the arid red soil and shifting sand dunes of the surrounding desert, and the Murray River, with lush, irrigated orchards and vineyards. Wine and dine in style, and experience the serenity of vast Outback.
Mildura
Mildura is a vibrant oasis set on the Murray River, surrounded by picturesque citrus groves and vineyards. Mildura has a cosmopolitan city vibe and a Mediterranean climate and is renowned
for its food and wine, with excellent local produce such as wine, oranges and asparagus.
The unusual pink salt lakes are harvested and sold to top chefs and ‘foodies’ nationally. Visit Orange World for an understanding of the citrus industry. The foodies also flock to Stefano de Pieri’s award-winning restaurant, Stefano’s.
Make time for the beautiful Rio Vista Homestead that is the Mildura Arts Centre and which includes an art gallery, museum and theatre. The Mildura area is known for its festivals, the best-known include wine, music and the arts.
There are numerous paddle-steamer cruises to be enjoyed on the Murray including day, evening, show and winery cruises. If you’d like to explore on your own, you can captain your own houseboat, drive a barby boat or take a canoe tour.
For history buffs, the Chaffey Trail is a must-see as because it traces Mildura’s establishment as the first inland irrigation settlement in Australia.
Sunsalt Corporation produces Murray River Salt from the underground brines in the Murray Darling Basin near Mildura and you can visit the factory.
Mildura Festivals
Mildura is known for its splendid festivals. If you can make your way to the Murray region at the time, enjoy.
Mildura Beer & Blues Festival, April Blues music performers at various venues, major outdoor concert on the river bank and exhibition of boutique and imported beers. Enquiries: (03) 5021 5768
Mildura Writer’s Festival, July - The Mildura Writers Festival has become one of the most highly regarded Writers Festivals in Australia. Three days of workshops, panels, readings and events with noted writers from the world and Australia.
Mildura Country Music Festival, September - October Australia’s biggest showcase of independent entertainers with more than 100 country-music artists playing in venues across Mildura and district.
Mildura Wentworth Arts Festival, September - Held annually in March, the festival program crackles with energy blending art and culture with magical locations. Performances range from street theatre to contemporary music.
