Welcome to Swan Hill

SWAN HILL

ATTRACTIONS - MAPS - EVENTS - SERVICES

welcome TO

SWAN HILL

The Swan Hill region boasts a strong culture, wonderful food, a vibrant community and, of course, a bounty of local produce. Everything you need is here, surrounded by one of the country’s most beautiful natural assets - the Murray River.

Once upon a time, the Murray River was Australia’s most important river highway. Even today it's a crucial link in the irrigation system that enables farmers to overcome the vagaries of weather.

There is a special magic about rivers, and the Murray is one of the most magical of all. From its source in the Snowy Mountains to its meeting with the sea at Encounter Bay, it travels more than 2,756 kms. It is the third largest navigable river in the world, and the Swan Hill region is home to the most unspoilt natural section of it all.

The Murray River provides an array of fresh fish, including the famed Murray cod (in season). You can experience this magical environment through a leisurely stroll along the Swan Hill River Walk or drive through the river forests.

The Swan Hill region is the centre of Australia’s fresh stonefruit industry where each season bares a different variety of fruit. Throughout the region, specialist growers contribute to the generous supply of local produce.

You can also experience the beautiful surrounds at the award winning Murray Downs golf course or explore nature’s remarkable features in one of the many reserves and parks in the region. Alternatively, enjoy a Murray River cruise or a houseboat holiday, a historic paddleboat trip or discover the fantastic festivals, events, arts and many other unique family attractions the area has to offer.

There is always something happening in and around Swan Hill. Visit the wide variety of local markets, day trip to the many wineries in the region, experience the amazing ‘mirror lake’ at Lake Tyrell, drive the Rivergum Trail Nyah-Vinifera Park, walk to the Swan River Wetlands, eat out at the wide variety of local restaurants, and go back in time at Swan Hill’s Pioneer Settlement.

Whatever the season, when you begin your exploration of the Swan Hill region you’ll find yourself in a very special part of the world.

Murray River Road Bridge, Swan Hill, Credit: Visit Swan Hill

Kookaburra, Swan Hill, Credit: Visit Swan Hill

Water skiing on Lake Boga, Credit: Visit Swan Hill

Things TO SEE & DO

Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery

Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery is well recognised as having one of Australia’s most comprehensive collections of naive art. Along with a growing collection of Australian works on paper, prints and drawings, the Gallery presents an exciting program of touring exhibitions and events throughout the year. Open Tues - Fri 10am-5pm, Sat & Sun 10am-4pm. Gold coin entry by donation.

Pioneer Settlement & Murray River Laser Light Spectacular

Visitors can experience the contrast between an old world early Australian village and modern technology at the ‘Heartbeat of the Murray’ and ‘Legend of the Mallee’ shows. Heartbeat of the Murray in the Pioneer Settlement is a world class laser show that is presented against a back drop of river and red gum forest depicting the story of the Murray River.

End your day with the laser, fire and water spectacular that is the Murray River Laser Light Spectacular. Boasting two shows to choose from or even do both. Legends of the Mallee and Heartbeat of the Murray are world class experiences right on the banks of the Murray.

The show canvasses the history of the Murray, from prehistoric times to the pioneering days in spectacular fashion with a nine metre water screen setting. Using water light, laser, sound, special effects and multi-media components, visitors are transported back 30 million years before travelling forward through time to the Murray River as we know it today. (First Prize winner in the International Laser Design Association multi-media show category). Heartbeat of the Murray is one experience not to be missed.

While you are there, be sure to book a river cruise on the PS Pyap, taking in the natural beauty and sounds of the Murray. Open 7 Days per week 9.30am-4.30pm.

LAKE BOGA flying boat museum

Located 14kms south of Swan Hill, in Lake Boga you will find Lake Boga’s Flying Boat Museum. Hidden under the canopy of a modern hangar, you will discover what the imperial enemy couldn’t find, the secret No.1 Flying Boat Repair Depot in Australia, used during World War II.

Lake Boga was the No.1 repair base for the Catalina where Australian, Dutch and American planes and five other flying boats (Sunderland, Dornier, Martin Mariner, Walruses and Kingfishers) were repaired during World War II. The base operated from 1942 through to 1945 with 1,000 personnel stationed at Lake Boga. It was decommissioned in 1946/47, and subsequently anyone could purchase a Catalina Flyaway for between 100 to 1,000 pounds.

A couple of members of the Lake Boga Lions Club set in motion the idea to commemorate the war effort at Lake Boga with the creation of a Flying Boat Museum. With many hands on deck, the project was hard earned taking ten years to dismantle a Catalina and relocate it to its current site.

Under the guidance and dedication of the Lake Boga Lions Club, this remarkable museum takes us back to the 1940s, where Catalina’s were more common on the lake than speed boats are today.

Active things to do

With more sunny days than Queensland, take a local Yoga class on the riverbank, or hit up one of the many walking and cycling trails along the riverfront or lakeside, our trails range from 5km up to 100km. Visit Lake Boga, just 15 minutes south of Swan Hill, this well-loved holiday camping spot is the perfect base for aquatic fun including swimming, fishing, waterskiing and boating.

Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery, Credit: Tourism Australia

Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Credit: Tourism Australia

Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

Cycling at Lake Boga, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

Murray Downs Golf and Country Club

Visiting the region without experiencing the award winning Murray Downs Golf and Country Club is like going to Sydney without seeing the harbour bridge. For those whose handicap is greater than their age, the experience of walking through the charming, perfectly groomed fairways and stunning signature holes will make up for all those misshits, lost balls and cries of ‘fore!’. For the more serious golfer, once you have carded the 18 holes, your competitive nature will be crying out for more … you may need to hire a cart and bring along the family, just so everyone can enjoy the experience.

Riverside Park

The hidden riverside gem is one place not to be missed on a visit to Swan Hill. Luscious green lawns aplenty and playgrounds to suit all ages. Riverside Park is the perfect place to pull up and relax after a busy afternoon exploring the region. Relax on the ten steps or grab lunch at one of the town’s many eateries and take in the breathtaking scenery.

If you want to enjoy nature and keep fit, enjoy the outdoor gym facility or experience the adventure of the popular 4.5 kilometre River Walk along the Murray and Little Murray Rivers. It can be followed from start in Milloo Street, Wetlands to Pental Island Bridge or accessed at any point. Look out for signs and learn about the fish, flora, fauna and pioneer history of this vibrant river port.

Parks and Playgrounds

With over 20 playgrounds in the region, the kids will have plenty to explore. From the adventure playground and skate park at Riverside to the Boundary Bend Memorial Park and many in between. The Swan Hill region’s offering of parks and gardens will keep the walkers and picnic fans happy too. Pop into the Swan Hill Region Information Centre for more information and top picks.

Shop local

The Swan Hill region has a bustling cafe and shopping scene, with local produce available in cafes and restaurants, to local boutiques stocking local creators and popular brands. Shopping local has never been more important, we encourage you to explore our regional cafe and retail scene. Campbell Street is our main shopping street along with MaCallum and Beveridge Street. Swan Hill is home to some 1300 businesses. Which means 117 out of every 1000 residents is a business owner - well above the Australian average of 92. We also have a high proportion of female business owners.

Wall Art MuralS

Nyah West Kookaburra, Manangatang Outdoor Pool, Alleyway Art (Campbell Street), Bendigo Bank (McCrae Street).

One28 Doors

One28 Doors is Swan Hill’s newest café and events venue serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and so much more! Enjoy amazing coffee, chai, hot chocolate and all your favourite hot and cold drinks including freshly made cold-pressed juices. There is also a private conference room available for hire and perfect to hold your wedding or upcoming event.

Riverside Park, Credit: Visit Swan Hill

Murray Downs Golf Course, Credit: Ewen Bell Photography & Visit Swan Hill

Skateboarding at Riverside Park, Credit: Swan Hill City Council

Wall Mural, Swan Hill, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

PIONEER SETTLEMENT

Swan Hill boasts a rich heritage of pioneer settlement extending back to the 1800s. The iconic attraction, Pioneer Settlement, pays tribute to this bygone era.

A visit to Swan Hill wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Pioneer Settlement. Take a trip back in time as you meander through the settlement which showcases over 50 recreated and original buildings filled with antiques and historical artefacts. Experience firsthand what it was like for those living in the 1800s at this unique attraction.

There’s so much to see and do at Pioneer Settlement. Amble along in a horse-drawn carriage, enjoy a vintage car ride, relax while you take a river cruise aboard the PS Pyap, the choice is entirely yours. End your day with the laser, fire and water spectacularHeartbeat of the Murray, the world class laser show depicting the story of the Murray River.

Nestled on the Little Murray River’s banks in Swan Hill, ‘Legends of the Malee’ offers an immersive journey through the region’s history. Indigenous insights from the Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi people intertwine with European explorers’ tales, including Burke and Wills’ ill-fated expedition. The experience also uncovers Lake Boga’s wartime significance and the remarkable contributions of the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force. This captivating laser light show intertwines the Mallee’s past, present, and future, creating an unmissable, enchanting spectacle.

Pioneer Settlement is open daily from 9.30am to 4.30pm except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. For more information on Pioneer Settlement including entry costs, be sure to visit www.pioneersettlement.com.au

Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Credit: Ewan Bell Photography | Bottom: Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Credit: Tourism Australia

Pioneer Settlement Laser Light Show, Credit: Swan Hill City Council Top: Pioneer Settlement, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

LOCAL PRODUCE

The Swan Hill region has a thriving agricultural and horticultural community which supplies quality fresh produce to millions of Australians and overseas consumers.

With its rich soils, Mediterranean climate and abundant Murray River water supply, the area is suitable for growing and processing a diverse range of quality products. Currently more than 60 different agricultural and horticultural products are grown in the region. The principal production activities include fresh table grapes, stone fruit (nectarines, peaches and plums), wine grapes, dried vine fruits, vegetables (carrots and potatoes), almonds, cereals, legumes, lucerne, sheep, beef, dairying and dry land farming.

The region’s horticulture industry has expanded rapidly over the last few years, attracting new plantings from existing growers and large-scale investors. Horticulture is currently the largest sector, driving the creation of many skilled and semi-skilled jobs on farms, in modern export packing establishments and in allied services.

Many fine shops, cafés, restaurants and hotels provide visitors with the opportunity to sample the distinctive flavours of this region by combining local produce with regional wines.

The wines produced in the Swan Hill region capture the earthy characteristics and relaxed ambience of one of Australia’s leading developing wine regions. Crisp whites and fullbodied reds are particular to the area. For more information on wineries in the region, visit www.visitswanhill.com.au or drop into the Swan Hill Region Information Centre.

Family visits orchard at Sonre Farm, Swan Hill, Credit: Visit Victoria

REGIONAL TRAILS

The Swan Hill region has a range of walking and touring trails for visitors keen to explore this picturesque region.

Take a stroll along the 4.5km river walk running alongside the Murray River. For visitors who like history, be sure to embark on the ‘Now and Then’ historical walk which meanders through the Swan Hill streetscapes highlighting several old buildings. The walk is designed to start at the Swan Hill Railway Station and finish at Peachy’s Bar (the old Royal Hotel).

The Nyah Vinifera Park also offers bushwalking trails along the Murray River as well as within the forest itself.

The Swan Hill region offers many self-drive tours which provide visitors with a great overview of this lovely area. Try any of the following touring trails: the Swan Hill River Precinct, Lake Boga, Woorinen Region, Nyah/ Nyah West and Robinvale Region.

For walking and touring trail guides, drop into the Swan Hill Region Information Centre at 125 Curlewis Street.

Murray River Sunset, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

Nyah Vinifera Park, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

The #1 Golf Courses on the Murray River!

A popular attraction for locals, and a must see for visitors new to the Swan Hill Region. Murray Downs Golf Club features an award winning 18-hole championship golf course, located a short drive over the bridge from Swan Hill. The Clubhouse is open 365 days per year, offering bistro and café meals 7 days, weekend breakfast, entertainment, 3 floodlit bowling greens and more.

Whether you’re looking for a golfing getaway with friends, planning a function or looking for a night out in a family friendly atmosphere, look no further than the Murray Downs Golf and Country Club.

A proudly not-for-profit community club with a rewarding history of supporting local community groups, organisations and charities.

It truly is one of the best Golf Courses on the Murray!

KEEP UP-TO-DATE ON OUR SOCIALS! MURRAYDOWNSGOLFCLUB MURRAYDOWNS

Swan Hill’s Home of Live Music

A PROUDLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT COMMUNITY CLUB RUNNING FOR OVER 100 YEARS.

LUNCH 12PM-2PM | DINNER 6PM-8.30PM

HAPPY HOUR : FRI, 5.30PM-6.30PM

FREE COURTESY BUS : WED, FRI-SUN

MEMBERS DRAWS, RAFFLES & LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRI FROM 7.30PM

+ LIVE MUSIC SAT & SUN THROUGH SUMMER

5-17 McCallum Street Swan Hill VIC 3585

Mon to Fri / 10am to late Sat & Sun / 11am to late

Keep up-to-date swanhillclub

SPORT & LEISURE

Swan Hill offers sporting and leisure activities to suit all tastes and ages.

The beautiful golf greens and fairways in Swan Hill are enhanced by magnificent backdrops of tranquil river views and natural bush scenes. The Murray Downs Golf and Country Club is located along the Murray ten minutes from the Swan Hill CBD, and features an 18-hole championship golf course. For more information, call 5033 1422 or visit www.murraydownsgolf.com.au

World-class tennis courts can also be enjoyed in a superb climate whether you’re a spectator or a player. Escape the winter chills and be welcomed at the many immaculate bowling greens. Alternatively, explore Swan Hill’s unique region on bike.

The Swan Hill Aquatic and Recreation Centre, located at 21 Pritchard Street, is a one stop shop for all your leisure activities. Boasting a gym, indoor heated swimming pool, toddler pool and stadium, you can keep your fitness regime on track or merely enjoy the centre with your family. Open daily except for Christmas Day. For more information, call 5032 5222 or visit www.swanhilllc.com.au

Swan Hill abounds with adventure playgrounds for the kids and family. Try George Lay Park, Barry Steggall Park, Riverside Park and Swan Hill Skate Park.

For more information on sport and leisure activities in Swan Hill, go to www.visitswanhill.com.au

Murray Downs Golf Course, Credit: Visit Swan Hill

Exploring Swan Hill on Bike, Credit: Ewen Bell Photography

George Lay Park, Swan Hill, Credit: Ewen Bell Photography

PARKS & WALKS

BARRY STEGGALL PARK

Distance: 2.3 km

Difficulty: Easy

Barry Steggall Park is the home of an all abilities playground, an Indigenous arboretum,Steggall Park Lake, boardwalk, skatepark, BBQ area and toilets.

RIVERSIDE PARK

Distance: 4.5 km

Difficulty: Easy

The Riverfront Track is a 4.5km one way track stretching from the Milloo Street Wetlands through to the Pental Island Bridge. Travelling north to south you’ll begin at the wetlands. Follow the trail past the Pioneer Settlement before entering the Art Gallery Carpark.

The final section is a natural bush track known as the David Ellemor Trail. The Riverside Park also has an outdoor gym facility, all abilities playground, BBQ area, toilets and skatepark.

MURRAY DOWNS TRACK

Distance: 8 km (round trip)

Difficulty: Easy

This 8km round trip takes you over the bridge into NSW. You’ll pass the historic Murray Downs Homestead on your way to the Murray Downs Golf and Country Club.

Lakeside Trail Lake Boga

Distance: 4.3 km

Difficulty: Easy

One of the distinct features of Lake Boga is 4.3 km (one way, approx. 9km round trip) active pathway, along the lake foreshore, north of the township. The all purpose sealed path provides the perfect and safe environment to explore Lake Boga either by foot or bicycle. There are a number of BBQ facilities, rest areas and even a family playground, where you can relax and enjoy the lake views.

Rivergum Trail - Nyah-Vinifera Park

Distance: 13-15 km

Terrain: Natural - unsealed road

Travelling along the majestic Murray River, this 13km trail will take you through the NyahVinifera Park. Keep a look out for the famous Pick’s Point, the site of Australia’s first rice grown crop or signs of small Aboriginal middens.

Running along the banks of the Murray, Swan Hill, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

DAY TRIPS

Robinvale

131 km 1 hr 25 min

Robinvale is a town on the south bank of the Murray River on the Victorian side between Swan Hill and Mildura.

• Southern Cross Windmill

• Robinswood Homestead

• Rural Life Museum

• Belsar Island

Woorinen

15 km 10 min

Just 10 minutes’ drive north-west of Swan Hill centre is the beating heart of this thriving fruit industry.

• Orchards and farm gate sales

• Woorien South Tavern

• Popular annual events like the Vintage Rally and Tractor Pull

Lake Boga

17.3 km 15 min

Lake Boga, just 15 minutes drive south of Swan Hill, is a popular holiday spot for fans of aquatic fun and the outdoors.

• L ake Boga itself

• Flying Boat Museum

• L ake Boga Story Wall

• Twilight Farmers’ Market

NYAH

26.2 km 19 min

The towns of Nyah and Nyah West, around 20 minutes from Swan Hill, are the gateway to some magnificent natural riverside bush.

• Nyah Recreation Reserve

• Nyah Vinifera Park

• Nyah West Golf Course

Lake Tyrell

86.9 km 1.5 hrs

The largest inland salt lake in Victorian is an attraction for tourists from all over the world, drawn to the mesmerising scenery, stunning sunrises and sunsets and breathtaking night skies. The endless skies of Lake Tyrrell provide a beautiful backdrop to the unique salt formation on the lake bed.

The best time to visit is during the winter (June to August) when the Lake is filled with water and reflection of the “sky mirror”. In Summer (December to February) is when you can see the pink salt surface with a little water.

SWAN HILL REGION

Cycling around Lake Boga, Credit: Swan Hill Inc

EVENTS

january

Rockfest Swan Hill

SES Duck Race

Swan Hill Speedway Titles Meeting

Harvest Working Machinery and Vintage Tractor Pull

February

Voyage Fitness Riverside Triathlon

Visions of Lake Boga Art Show

Summerwave Music Festival

March

Swan Hill Regional Food & Wine Festival

Country Week Tennis

Robinvale Euston 80 Ski Race Weekend

Swan Hill Harmony Day

Swan Hill Jockey Club Racing

Lake Boga Splash Down & Rev Up

Lake Boga Yacht Club Easter Regatta

Australian Pro Tour Tennis

Swan Hill Fishing Classic

April

Lake Boga Yacht Club Easter Regatta

Easter Market Day

Quambatook Tractor Pull

Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay

Swan Hill Speedway Easter

Swan Hill Bowls Club Easter Carnival

May

Million Paws Walk

Comedy Festival Roadshow

Annual Autumn Bowls Competition

Mid Murray Amateur Golf Tournament

Speedway, Auto Cross Racing & Drag Racing

Events

For

June

June Racing Carnival (June long weekend)

Swan Hill Vintage & Classic Car Club Event

Murray Downs Golf and Country Club Golden Putter Event

July

Swan Hill Sporting Car Club Test & Tune Rally

Swan Hill Kart Club Racing

August

Mallee Machinery Field Days

Mallee Almond Blossom Festival

September

Swan Hill Sporting Car Club Autocross

Murray Downs Pro Am

Robinvale Eastern Lantern Festival

October

Swan Hill Show

Medley Ambrose at the Murray Downs Golf Club

Market Day

Fairfax Youth Festival

Australian Inland Wine Show

November

3SH Swan Hill Cup

Swan Hill Basketball Junior Classic

Mallee Cruisers Show & Shine

Port to Port Bike Ride

Beats at the Bend

December

Nyah District Christmas Carnival

Robinvale Christmas Carnival

Lake Boga Bank 2 Bank

Murray Cod Season Open

Christmas Twilight Market

New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Lake Boga

Murray Downs Golf Club, Credit: Ewen Bell Photography

Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement Laser Light Show, Credit: Visit Victoria

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ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

BURKE & WILLS MOTOR INN

COMFORT INN LADY AUGUSTA

AUstralian Settlers Motor Inn

354 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 9277

www.australiansettlers.com.au

BIG4 Swan Hill

186 Murray Valley Hwy, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4372

big4swanhill.com.au

Hilltop Resort

659 Murray Valley Highway, near Swan Hill, VIC 3585 (03) 5033 1515

hilltopresort.com.au

BOOK DIRECT

370 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585

(03) 5032 9788

www.burkeandwillsswanhill.com.au

BOOK DIRECT

375 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585

(03) 5032 9677

linktr.ee/ladyaugustaswanhill

Jacaranda Motel & Holiday Units

179 Curlewis St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 9077

www.jacarandaholidayunits.com.au

Jane Eliza Motor Inn

263 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4411

www.facebook.com/janeelizamotorinn

Lazy River Motor Inn

188 Murray Valley Hwy, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 2123

www.lazyrivermotorinn.com.au

Murray Downs Resort

Lot 5 Murray Downs Dr, Murray Downs NSW 3585 (03) 5033 1966 murraydownsresort.com.au

Murray River Motel 481 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 2217

www.murrayrivermotel.com

Paddle Steamer Motel & Holiday Park

5563 Murray Valley Hwy, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 2151

www.paddlesteamermotel.com.au

ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

Paruna Motel

386 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4455

www.parunamotel.com

Pental Island Holiday Park

519 Pental Island Rd, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 2071

www.pentalislandholidaypark.com.au

Quality Inn Swan Hill

396 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4427

www.choicehotels.com/victoria/swan-hill/ quality-inn-hotels/au454

Sun Centre Motel

491 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4466

www.suncentremotel.com.au

Swan Hill Holiday Park

5587 Murray Valley Hwy, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 4112

www.swanhillholidaypark.com.au

Swan Hill Regional Information

Centre

125 Curlewis St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 3033

www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/discover/ swan-hill-information-centre

Swan Hill Resort

405-415 Campbell St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 2726

swanhillresort.com.au

Travellers Rest Motor Inn

110 Curlewis St, Swan Hill VIC 3585 (03) 5032 9644

www.facebook.com/travrest