North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

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ABSEILING ROCK CLIMBING KAYAKING BUSHWALKING canyoning SPORTS RAFTING PACKRAFTING Offering spectacular adventures in Bright, Mount Buffalo, Beechworth and surrounds. Ordinary People Achieving Extraordinary Things. Choose your own adventure.

w. adventureguidesaustralia.com.au m. 0419 280 614 e. agati@netc.net.au

91 High Street, Mansfield Vic Australia. www.mansfieldsweets.com Ph: (03) 5775 3221

BeechworthBakery.com.au

1300 BEESTING (1300 233 784)

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4

AROUND THE REGION

Beechworth: your spring destination IT’S time to explore beautiful Beechworth, either online or in person.

The Indigo Shire looks forward to welcoming you to the North East region when travel restrictions have lifted and Beechworth itself is excited to welcome visitors back.

They have all COVID-19 safe procedures and infrastructure in place so you can rest assured you will have a safe and enjoyable visit.

Home to award-winning craft breweries and distilleries, whose heritage buildings and authentic recipes are part of the town’s history, Beechworth also offers an up and coming local coffee culture, with cafés and bakeries that every coffee lover should explore.

The vibrant retail precinct makes Beechworth a shopper’s delight, offering a wide range without city crowds.

Beechworth’s heritage is one of Victoria’s hidden jewels.

Beautiful granite architecture and perfectly preserved streets surround you as you walk and you can see Australia’s oldest regional museum, walk in the footsteps of Ned Kelly or take a tour with one of the town’s expert tour guides.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

BREATHTAKING: Visit Beechworth online or in person as restrictions allow this spring.

PHOTO: Indigo Shire Council For those who prefer a different sort of getaway, there are spectacular natural surrounds to sit back and enjoy.

You can take the mountain bike trails, or bushwalk your way to a spectacular sunset over the gorge waterfall.

With a number of wine regions close by, your regional wine exploration should start in the Beechworth Wine Region and from there, it is

only a short trip to Rutherglen, Milawa or the King Valley.

There’s also a vibrant online world to explore so check out some of their boutique retailers at Buy From Beechworth: https://www. buyfrombeechworth.com.au/ or visit https://www. explorebeechworth.com.au/ You’ll find it all right there in Beechworth, so start planning a visit today.

5

CONTENTS

Wine Country   Albury/Wodonga   Beechworth

 Benalla   Bright & District   Chiltern

 Cobram Barooga

 Glenrowan   Map

 Goorambat   Mansfield & District   Marysville & District   Milawa & District

 Mt Beauty   Myrtleford

 Mt Buller & Base of Buller

 Shepparton

 Strathbogie & District   Wangaratta   Yarrawonga/Mulwala

 Yackandandah  

Explore close to home or further away this spring

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ANOTHER spring is here and with it we look to a fresh start.

Half the country has spent a good away when restrictions allow, maybe majority of winter in lockdown. you’ll choose somewhere new, Again. But as the days get warmer, maybe an old favourite. the spring buds bloom and provide Many of our smaller towns have been familiar fragrance in the air, we look to given new life in recent years with art the new season with hope. and tourism flourishing.

Of course the magpies will be out Perhaps it’s time you found yourself and about, keeping their children in natural surroundings rather than safe and swooping unsuspecting cities or towns - and we have plenty walkers and riders, but don’t let of National Parks to explore either via that deter you from getting out and the walking trails or mountain bike seeing some of our fantastic areas. paths.

Don’t despair if you are limited to The Mountains to Murray rail trail will your own 5km radius - it’s a chance see you visit a number of towns, all of to get out and explore your own which offer good food, fine wine and backyard. fresh produce.

You might discover hidden treasures So this spring, wherever you are and you never even knew existed. whatever you can do, find the joy Use the contents page to plan a trip around the corner or in another town.

NEXT EDITION | Summer 2021-2022

COVID AFFECTED BUSINESSES Appreciate Your Support

ABSEILING ROCK CLIMBING KAYAKING BUSHWALKING canyoning SPORTS RAFTING PACKRAFTING Offering spectacular adventures in Bright, Mount Buffalo, Beechworth and surrounds. Ordinary People Achieving Extraordinary Things. Choose your own adventure.

w. adventureguidesaustralia.com.au m. 0419 280 614 e. agati@netc.net.au

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North East Tourist News Est. 1979

Incorporating Mountain Country (1986)

ADVERTISING BOOKING DEADLINE | Friday, November 5, 2021 SALES ENQUIRIES (03) 5723 0100 | EMAIL sales@nemedia.com.au

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North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

6

AROUND THE REGION

Discover the Snowy Hydro Scheme

SO MUCH TO DISCOVER: At the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and Cafe in Cooma.

THE Snowy Mountains enjoy year-round activities, from skiing in the winter through to fishing, kayaking, bushwalking and water sports in summer.

A visit to the sites of the Snowy Scheme is a must for those wanting to experience the best the region has to offer.

As we head into warmer months, it is a perfect opportunity to pay a visit to the Snowy Hydro visitor centres and learn more about Snowy Hydro

operations, the Snowy 2.0 project and the history of the iconic Snowy Scheme.

At the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and Café in Cooma you can experience the Scheme like never before in their new immersive theatre.

Providing a virtual flyover of the mountains, it tells the remarkable story of the Snowy Scheme - past, present and future.

There is also a scale model of one of Snowy 2.0’s tunnel boring machines.

The café offers barista-made coffee,

lunch items and delicious hot chocolate and you can even charge your electric vehicle at the Chargefox EV charging station.

The picturesque Khancoban Visitor Information Centre is a partnership between Snowy Hydro and National Parks and Wildlife Service.

It is the perfect place to drop in to get local and park information, purchase park passes and check road closures and weather conditions.

The centre also carries an extensive

VISIT US

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

range of maps, local produce, books and gifts.

While visiting Talbingo, drop into the Talbingo Supermarket and see the Snowy Hydro display with the latest Snowy 2.0 project update on the big screen.

For up to date information to help plan your trip, visit snowyhydro.com.au/ visit or call the friendly team on 1800 623 776.

See you in the Snowy Mountains soon.

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18 & 19 SEP 2021 9am-3pm

Location: Yea Saleyards Flat Lead Road, Yea (see website for directions)

Only an hour from Melbourne!

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Treasures, Toys & Treats, Oh My! 10AM - 4:30PM 7 DAYS S A WEEK

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)RXV] JSV EHYPXW /MHW *6)) Pay at the gate or book online at (www.trybooking.com/BQVDP)

FREE PARKING

Contact: yeagardenexpo@optusnet.com.au

www.yeagardenexpo.com.au

8

AROUND THE REGION

PERFECTLY CAPTURED: The PicTrax app holds photos as a personal travel and events diary as well as a portfolio for professional photographers.

PHOTO: Obelia McCormack

Snap, upload and earn in regional Victoria PEOPLE visiting regional Victoria can now make money from doing what they probably would anyway taking a few photos of the beautiful local sights on their mobile phones.

An Australian designed and developed photography app PicTrax - has been engineered to create a unique Australia-wide catalogue of great regional travel destinations.

PicTrax is a free app available on Android and Apple platforms and geographically tags the event and interfaces with directions on how to travel to it.

Amateur or professional mobile

phone snappers who upload their photo to the app, then earn money in direct proportion to the photo’s popularity.

The popularity is determined by the number of ‘Likes’ it achieves and once it reaches a minimum threshold, the money is credited to the photographer’s account on PicTrax.

The app also holds the photo as a personal travel and events diary as well as a catalogue, for the person who took the photos.

Even if the phone is lost, the photography remains intact on PixTrax.

The app was conceived and created by passionate Aussie, Obelia McCormack, who self-funded its development.

“We’re always using our phones to snap the things we want to remember and places we want to come back to,” said Obelia.

“PixTrax provides a platform to share the capture locations and useful information for other travellers, and for smartphone photographers to be financially rewarded for doing so.”

“The app’s website includes tutorials, but a key objective was to make the technology incredibly

Share the real Australia Sh EXPLORE, EXPL EX XPL P OR ORE, S ORE SHARE HA & INSPIRE DOMESTIC TRAVEL - PICTRAX.COM North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

user-friendly and simple to use and we’ve been able to achieve that,” Obelia added.

“As well as being designed for the amateur snapper, PicTrax also provides opportunity for budding professional photographers, to publish a portfolio URL and create an avenue for image sales.”

PicTrax users are required to agree to the PicTrax Terms of Service, which among other things, requires users to declare they have the legal rights to upload and display their photos.

For more information visit pictrax. com or download Pixtrax directly from Google Play or the iTunes Store.

9

Welcome to Wine Country

THE North East, High Country and Goulburn Murray regions of Victoria are well known nationally and internationally for their diverse and award winning wines.

Whether you’re in Beechworth, the King Valley, Mansfield, Milawa, Oxley, the King Valley or Rutherglen, you’re sure to find a particular drop (or more!) you simply fall in love with.

Winery Brown Bros Delatite Gapsted Glenbosch John Gehrig Ros Ritchie Schmidt’s

Area Milawa Mansfield Myrtleford Beechworth Oxley Mansfield Allan’s Flat

In addition to fine wines, many wineries have diversified to offer onsite accommodation, private tours, restaurants, cafés, liqueurs, gin and fresh produce.

They can even accommodate large or small weddings or other celebrations, or offer unique photographic opportunities for your special event.

Cellar Door Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Below is a brief list of what’s available from our advertising wineries in this edition.

You will find more information about the region or the winery itself in the following pages.

We hope you find a new favourite among these gems and we look forward to your return visit in the future.

Accommodation Yes - bridal cottage No No Coming soon No No No

Food Yes - restaurant Yes - dining room Yes - restaurant Yes - restaurant No No No

If you would like to be part of the Wine Country section, please contact North East Media on (03) 5723 0100 or email sales@nemedia.com.au.

The next edition will be Summer 2021 and bookings are due by Friday November 5, 2021.

FA AMIL LY OWNE ED - FA AMIL LY RU UN

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is a long time for any family to be in 1 profession....

‘You would expect they would know a thing or 2 about it by now!’

www.johngehrigwines.com.au 80 Gehrigs Lane, Oxley 3678 Ph (03) 5727 3395

CELLAR DOORS e: wines@johngehrigwines.com.au

1326 Gooramadda Road d 5 Rutherglen 3685 Ph: (02) 6026 8228 8 North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

10

Award winning strawberry wines SET amidst acres of lush strawberry fields in Allans Flat, approximately five kilometres from Yackandandah, Schmidt’s Strawberry Winery should be included on your list of ‘things to see and do’ this spring.

Schmidt’s is the oldest strawberry winery in Australia, owned and operated by brothers Martin and Michael Schmidt who are third generation strawberry growers/ winemakers.

Using a traditional family method, the award winning Schmidt’s Strawberry Wine has won friends from all over Australia.

Strawberry wine is often a summer favourite and can be served at room temperature or chilled.

It pairs well with chocolate and can be a delicious dessert wine because of its sweet and fruity taste. Alternatively, you could pour it

BERRY GOOD: Make sure you visit Schmidt’s Strawberry Winery and taste their delicious wine, liqueur or fresh strawberries. over a bowl of ice-cream, although Schmidt’s have a strawberry liqueur they recommend for that instead.

Farm fresh, full-flavoured Allans Flat strawberries are also available in punnets or trays from the cellar door when in season - which is

Schmidt's Strawberry Winery Estab. 1975 Wineeur u & liqting Tas s a y 7 Da ek’ We

Producing internationally award-winning strawberry wines and home of , a strawberry liqueur you must taste Winery located 10km north of Yackandandah on the Yackandandah to Wodonga road.

OPEN 7 DAYS 10am to 4pm Phone (02) 6027 1454 932 Osbornes Flat Rd, Allans Flat, Vic, 3691.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

generally from September to December.

Make sure you pack an esky and put them out of reach in the boot though or they might be all gone by the time you get to your accommodation or back home!

With dry, semi-sweet and sweet strawberry wines to tempt your tastebuds, as well as the sensational strawberry liqueur to pour over a strawberry daiquiri, call in today to discover a new favourite name in wine.

LIVE MUSIC & FRIDAY NIGHT DRINKS

5.30pm to 7.30pm BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

9 COVID-1 protocols apply

Cellar Door at the Magnolia BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL 0457 535 988 MAGNOLIA HOUSE 190 MT BULLER RD MANSFIELD OPEN 11~4 EVERY WEEKEND & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

www.rosritchiewines.com

11

Fresh produce, award-winning wines GAPSTED Wines, awarded Cellar Door with Best Food (Alpine Valleys) in Gourmet Traveller Wines’ Best Cellar Door Awards 2021, are renowned for their friendly customer service and delicious meals.

Serving up award-winning wines and meals produced using fresh local produce, set against the stunning backdrop of their vineyards which overlook the striking Alpine Valleys.

Indulge in a tasting platter and glass or two of their popular High Country Prosecco on the deck overlooking the vineyard or settle in for a longer lunch.

Gapsted Wines’ popular Taste of Season menu features three courses that showcase the best seasonal produce matched to wine.

For only $65 per person, it’s the perfect way to sample the best of what Gapsted Wines has to offer.

Wine tastings are available at their cellar door with over 25 wines to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect wine for your palate.

Coming into spring, their Tobacco Road Sangiovese Rosé is a popular choice as is their pink bubbles, the Limited Release Pinot Grigio Rose.

Gapsted Wines is just minutes by car from Myrtleford, and a short drive from Bright, Wangaratta and Beechworth.

It is also conveniently located right on the Murray to Mountains Cycle Trail.

Join their obligation-free silver wine club and not only will you receive 5 per cent off wine purchases, but free delivery Australia-wide (except NT) for 6 bottles or more straight to your door - the perfect option for those cycling to the winery or travellers who already have a full car.

Gapsted Wines Cellar Door and Restaurant are open Thursdays to Mondays, from 11am to 5pm.

Restaurant bookings are essential on (03) 5751 9101.

Follow Gapsted Wines on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest updates.

DESSERT FIRST: Lemon cheesecake with pistachios and lemon butter is just one of the delicious desserts on offer at Gapsted Wines.

PHOTOS: Belinda Harrison

GAPSTED WINES

YOUR SPRING DINING DESTINATION Come and see why Gapsted Wines was awarded

CELLAR DOOR WITH BEST FOOD

by Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine

$65pp

Enjoy our Taste of Season Menu ĨĞĂƚƵƌŝŶŐ three courses with matched wines

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ENJOY THE VIEW: With indoor and outdoor dining overlooking the vines, your day will be picture perfect.

Restaurant bookings essential | 03 5751 9101 | 3897 Great Alpine Road, Gapsted

GAPSTEDWINES.COM.AU

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

12

New cellar door and restaurant now open DELATITE Winery is proud to announce the opening of their multimillion-dollar, eco-tourism Cellar Door and Restaurant.

Taking full advantage of the breathtaking views over Mt Buller and the alpine range, the new state-of-the-art building replaces the modest 1980s cellar door which they outgrew.

Managing director, David Ritchie, says the new building reflects their business ethos and the way people visit wineries today.

“The customer experience is at the forefront of everything we do and offer,” David said.

“We aim to foster a relationship with customers so they have a sense of loyalty and connection with the brand and our overarching commitment to sustainability, and our new cellar door does just that.”

DELICIOUS: The new eco-tourism Cellar Door and Restaurant at Delatite is ready to welcome you now.

The new Delatite Cellar Door has a large tasting area for guests to work their way through the entire Delatite collection in comfort, with a cosy wood fire for the winter months.

To the north of the tasting room is the open-plan restaurant with modern finishes, plenty of natural lighting and seating for up to 60 guests.

The outdoor deck and courtyard

have further seating for guests to enjoy the country ambiance and fresh air.

“Our approach was to create a new building that provided a unique wine tasting and dining experience that reflects Delatite’s values and focuses on environmentally sustainable design principles,” said Melbourne-based architect Lucy Clemenger.

“Each space has been dedicated to a member of the Ritchie family and their contribution to the business over many years.”

“Sustainability is and always has been important to us,” David added.

“We’ve been using biodynamic practices for fifteen years now and whenever the opportunity arises, we look for better and more environmentally conscious ways to do things.”

DELATITE WINERY

Delatite winery is a family owned winery overlooking Mt Buller in Victoria’s High Country.

Exceptional views with wines to match!

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

13

Relax and enjoy the surrounds GLENBOSCH, on the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road at Beechworth/Everton Upper, offers wonderful vistas, delicious food and wine, and the chance to relax and enjoy it all.

The winery was taken on two years ago by Nika and Dirk Bester, who relocated from South Africa in 2019 and, drawing on Nika’s marketing experience, Dirk’s family history in farming, and their shared dream of running a winery, decided to make that vision a reality.

The Besters renovated the former Amulet Wines, including turning the residence into a cellar door, and are currently building four cottages - complete with wood-fired hot tubs perfect in Beechworth’s cool climes - to add another element to the business.

The family are also enjoying

putting their dreams into action in the winery’s restaurant.

The result is an inviting dining room overlooking the Beechworth region, where magnificent sunsets can be enjoyed, along with fare from the kitchen prepared by chef Scott Bowerman.

There is something on the menu to suit all tastes, with a range of starters, mains which are in equal parts delicious and beautiful to look at, followed by a collection of mouth-watering desserts, as well as a kids’ menu.

Glenbosch is open for lunch and dinner over weekends and can be contacted on 1800 959 044 or via email at admin@ glenbosch.com.au or restaurant@ glenbosch.com.au.

For more information or to book a table, visit www. glenbosch.com.au.

ENJOY LIFE: Gather around a table of delicious food and wine at Glenbosch.

w w w. g l e n b o s c h . c o m . a u

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

14

So much to see, experience and taste WINE lovers who have been counting down the days until they can hit the tasting trail once again would be hard pressed to find a better location than North East Victoria.

Whether you choose to stay in townships like Wangaratta, Bright, Beechworth or Milawa, there are five very different wine regions which can be accessed as part of a big day out or an overnight stay.

Each offer a different landscape to explore and a range of experiences to indulge in.

Tour through the scenic Alpine valleys, surrounded by majestic mountainsides, where microclimates have allowed 33 different grape varieties to flourish, ranging from traditional Chardonnay and Shiraz through to more unusual styles.

In the beautiful and historic region of Beechworth you can find some of Australia’s best Chardonnay, but the area also produces renowned Pinot

Noir and other cool-climate varietals.

In Glenrowan, there are fullbodied reds such as Shiraz which are known for their boldness and character, along with fragrant whites and fortified wines.

While Prosecco may be high on the list for those visiting the King Valley, other Italian varieties including Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, Dolcetto, Arneis and Barbera also thrive in these vineyards.

In Rutherglen, the long hot days and cool nights provide ideal conditions for the more than 20 wineries which call the area home, and while Shiraz, Durif and Cabernet may be the target varieties to taste, you can’t go home without a bottle of the Muscat or Topaque which is a signature of many of the sixth and seventh generation winemakers.

By all means visit for a day, but you will wish you had made it a week.

HISTORY: There is so much to learn when you visit the wine regions in Victoria.

PHOTO: Winetitles Media

The perfect way to spend your day in North East Victoria A place to wine and dine in the lazy afternoon sun, Brown Brothers Winery is welcoming visitors back to the gourmet hub of Milawa with an exciting new lunch menu from a Chef that knows no boundaries when it comes to good food.

Boasting seasonal produce and home-grown ingredients, Brown Brothers celebrates the beauty of regional food and wine alongside many local suppliers - all paired perfectly with a tasting in Cellar Door, and a bottle to take home.

To make a booking, visit brownbrothers.com.au/visit Stay connected on social media

@BrownBrothersWinery

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

#Brownbrothers

Fmaily winemakers since 1889

15

ALBURY/WODONGA

Replenish your life and live zero waste

REPLENISH YOUR LIFE NOW: Let Replenish Store help you live a zero waste life with their extensive array of quality eco products.

THERE’S a new store at Myer Centrepoint offering zero waste living in Albury/Wodonga and surrounds.

Replenish Store is a sustainably inclined business with an extensive array of quality eco products.

The large showcase of quality eco products has created a hub for all makers, innovators and consumers in the zero waste realm.

The store purchases products and ingredients that are as locally sourced as possible and gives suppliers the opportunity to sell their products in returnable, refillable packaging.

With a comprehensive range of high

quality, natural and low-tox products for home care and hygiene, to body and locally sourced intentional gifts, Replenish Store is there to support you in your quest toward a smarter, ecoconscious and waste-free lifestyle.

Owners Claire and James Greenhalgh ran a Sustainability Centre for four years before putting their heart and soul into providing border families with sustainable, waste-free shopping options.

“We all know the problems in this country with waste and the absolute scourge of plastic pollution over our planet,” Claire said.

“For us, it was so hard to keep a house running with two little kids, our pets, a busy family and a rather large shopping list each week.

“We didn’t want to buy a new plastic bottle each time we wanted a product like dishwashing liquid or soap or shampoo or toothpaste or everything else on our list.

“We already knew of so many simple and beautiful eco solutions, but the options were so expensive or hard to find and even harder to get our hands on.

“So we did a lot of research and brought together all these beautiful

options in one place.

“We’re now helping our customers to live waste-free, making it as simple, beautiful and easy as possible.”

“Your smarter choices today will help create a better future for tomorrow,” James added.

So, bring your containers, fill up with the good stuff and be on your way to a cleaner and considerate way of living, that both the environment and future generations will thank you for.

You’ll find Replenish Store at Myer Centrepoint, 5/525 David Street, Albury.

Experience the Pioneer Lifestyle Set on 2 acres, featuring multiple dwellings and beautiful gardens, we welcome you to come take a trip back to life 150 years ago

OPEN from 10am - 4pm every day (October- April)

Tea Room Open every Sunday from 11am

www.jinderamuseum.com.au 118 Urana Street, Jindera, NSW P: 0408 409 842 JinderaPioneerMuseum North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

16

ALBURY/WODONGA

Twin city exploration available here ONE half of the twin cities of Albury and Wodonga, Albury is a destination for shoppers, art enthusiasts, historians and those who simply adore nature.

The Murray River is a natural playground with swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and cycling at Noreuil Park.

In the heart of the city you’ll find the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA) where you can enjoy contemporary art and important indigenous works.

Monument Hill War Memorial sits at the western end of Dean Street and provides stunning views.

A second monument at Memorial Bowl honours the men and women who served in World War II. The beautiful Botanic Gardens were established more than 130 years ago and there is plenty of historical and horticultural

PICTURE PERFECT: The Bethanga Bridge is a sight to behold at sunset and sunrise.

PHOTO: Wmedia CASA certified significance to enjoy as you picnic on the lush green lawns.

There is an enchanting Children’s Garden for younger visitors which includes a life-sized dinosaur with interactive speaking tubes, the living cubbies, a fairy temple and the troll cave.

The five kilometre Wagirra Trail between Kremur Street and Wonga Wetlands includes the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk where you will learn about the cultural significance of the Murray River to Aboriginal history via interpretive panels and videos which can be accessed

with your smartphone.

Travellers will always find plenty of hotels, apartments, B&Bs and holiday parks, to use as their home away from home while touring the twin cities and surrounds of North East Victoria and Southern NSW.

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“Directly under the wor ld’s biggest rolling pin”

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OPEN Mon-Fri 6am-4.30pm Sat 6am-2.30pm Sun Closed

HENRI’S WODONGA BAKERY North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

Phone (02) 6024 1248 57 Hovell Street Wodonga (Buses welcome)

17

BEECHWORTH

Be embraced in beautiful Beechworth BEECHWORTH is a scenic postcard township, filled with lush trees and gardens, boutique stores, a worldfamous bakery, renowned chefs, restaurants and cafés, mountain bike trails and walks that offer spectacular views or take you through gold rush era and Kelly Gang country.

Visitors from around Australia flock to Beechworth every year to experience the history, gorgeous scenery and food delights.

The Historic and Cultural precinct in the heart of the town offers more than 30 National Trust listed buildings so walking the streets of Beechworth is like literally stepping back in time.

With a number of buildings more than 160 years old, it is a testament not only to the builders and architects of the time, but also a reminder that Beechworth was expected to become a powerful, wealthy and influential centre for trade and the gold economy.

If history doesn’t interest you, take a short walk, ride or drive through granite outcrops to rock pools and the cascading waterfalls of the Beechworth Gorge or Woolshed Falls where you can take in the spectacular views of the Woolshed Valley.

A network of trails in and around the gorge offers visitors the chance to explore the natural features of the park and discover historical points of interest.

If it’s your palate you’re looking to satisfy, the Beechworth Farmers’

VISIT NOW: From walking tours to the famous bakery and mountain bike riding to fine dining, Beechworth has it all.

PHOTO: explorebeechworth Market on the first Saturday of the month in the grounds of Christ Church provides a tasting plate of what’s available in the region.

With fresh local fruit and vegetables, bread, locally reared meats, cheeses and poultry, as well as seedlings, flowers and herbs on offer, the market is a chance to meet the growers and get to know the surrounding area from paddock to plate.

WHERE TO GO NEXT: Beechworth is a great base from which to explore the region from.

PHOTO: Shutterstock A host of eateries in the Beechworth area provide the ambience required for a great night out with loved ones or a big group of friends.

Whether it’s adventure, history or simply tranquillity you’re seeking, Beechworth can satisfy all of these seemingly unrelated pursuits this spring and beyond.

DAYTIME HISTORY TOURS — — — — — — —

NIGHT-TIME

GHOST TOURS — — — — — — —

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL www.asylumghosttours.com

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INVESTIGATIONS North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

19

BEECHWORTH

Spoke-tacular trails in Beechworth ACCORDING to local mountain bikers, there’s a sense of freedom that only being on two wheels in a forest can give you.

Luckily for riding enthusiasts, Beechworth has some unique tracks perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Beechworth Mountain Bike Club president Lynn Frerichs said mountain bike riding in the area is a “beautiful sensation”.

“The sport is achievable for everyone; no matter your experience,” she said.

“It gets you outside and enjoying being in the bush on two wheels; it’s a different sense of freedom.”

The Beechworth Park is unique; small but based on granite so there are lots of rocks to navigate and everything has been hand cut rather than cut by machines.

Being hand cut means that the

trails are slightly more challenging than newer styles, which are smooth with less technical features.

The majority of the trails in Beechworth have been there for 20 years and have continued to provide a lot of fun for a lot of riders over the years, despite the fact they haven’t changed much.

“Lots of people like our old school trails; people went into the bush and hand cut them because that’s what they wanted to ride,” Lynn explained.

“It’s one of the original parks in the country which I think is outstanding; people come to ride specifically for that nostalgic feeling of riding a spaghetti bowl of trails.”

So the next time you’re heading to Beechworth, pack your bikes and experience the trails for yourself.

UNIQUE: Beechworth trails are based on granite and everything has been hand cut.

PHOTO: Flow Mountain Bike

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North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

20

BENALLA

Explore the wonder at Winton Wetlands THERE’S never been a better time to put a visit to Winton Wetlands on your to do list with recent winter rains bringing the wetlands to life.

There is so much to see and explore in the wetlands themselves, as well as at the visitor centre and café.

Along the cycling and walking tracks you’ll find art among the landscape and the campgrounds make it a worthy inclusion if you are visiting North East Victoria.

The first port of call for many visitors is the Mokoan Visitor Hub & Café located at 652 Lake Mokoan Road, Chesney Vale open 9.00am to 4.00pm daily.

Enjoy a mouth-watering menu of mains and desserts featuring local seasonal produce and coffee, local wines and beers before exploring the site.

Winton Wetlands offers nine

READY FOR YOU: Winter rains have brought life to the wetlands ready for spring exploration. walking tracks around the reserve that make exploration safe and easy in the heart of the wetlands.

There are also several designated picnic locations that

provide ideal resting points.

Take in the beautiful scenery on the 40km of cycling tracks which connect to Benalla and Wangaratta cycle trails.

With more than 188 species of bird recorded at Winton Wetlands, it is a ‘twitcher’s’ (avid bird watcher) paradise.

Late winter/spring water levels attract amazing birdlife and frog sounds in these tranquil surrounds.

Steeped in a rich historical tapestry, the integration of art into Winton Wetland’s landscape has added an interpretive layer to the site.

Prominent artists Guido van Helten, Troy Firebrace, Bailey Bish and Andrew J Bourke have told stories inspired by the landscape, on a canvas uniquely “Mokoan”.

An indigenous art trail will be completed by the end of 2021.

Winton Wetlands is accessible every day of the year except Christmas and on Total Fire Ban days.

For more information visit www.wintonwetlands.com.au.

EXPLORE - CONNECT - DISCOVER Explore the Winton Wetlands 8,750 hectare site, it’s abundant birdlfe, art trails and waterways.

Connect with the environment, nature, culture and education.

Discover our history, camping, walking and cycling trails.

Enjoy coffee, cakes, our seasonal menu and childrens play ground at the Mokoan Hub and Café.

Bookings essential. Following current Victorian Covid 19 guidelines.

Start your journey at the Mokoan Hub & Cafe, 652 Lake Mokoan Road, Chesney Vale

652 Lake Mokoan Rd Chesney Vale www.wintonwetlands.org.au Office North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

O 03 5766 4462

O Café 0497 939 507

21

BRIGHT & DISTRICT

Wonderful spring exhibitions OPENING on September 23 and running until November 1, the Bright Art Gallery has four simultaneous exhibitions on the program.

‘Celebration’ is an exhibition of contemporary bespoke glass works by GASP (Glass Addicts Support Group) from Melbourne.

Ten artists are participating: Judy Rodsted-Wood, Barb Jorgensen, Bob Pride, Carole Kernohan, Debbie Wennrich, Marianne Bradman, Tracy Andrews, Stephen Guest, Lucy Cleary and Michelle Guest.

“We all share a love of working with glass,” Judy said.

“Our glass work results from a sense of discovery, interpretation of form and use of various colour palettes and techniques.

“Each glass artist has used the unique qualities and characteristics of glass to put their own spin on working with glass in interesting ways.

“During the COVID lockdown we focused on art as therapy, helping to see us through these difficult times.”

‘Mountains near and far’ is a photographic exhibition by local photographer Nette Mitchell.

“This is my favourite catalogue of work - it’s a collection dear to my heart and soul,” Nette said.

“I’ve always found revitalising energy amongst the mountains, I call Bright home.

“This body of work was created in a way to capture the energy of the mountains.

“It could be Australia, New Zealand or maybe somewhere beyond.

“My style of image making comes from a long line of influences and experiences.”

‘New Exhibits’ is an exhibition of recent paintings and photographs by the Alpine Artists, these are the artist members of the Bright Art Gallery.

This will be an interesting exhibition with traditional and contemporary works in every possible medium plus some exquisite photographs to enjoy.

‘Norma Bull’ from the Permanent Collection.

The gallery holds 32 works by artist, etcher and art administrator Norma Bull (1906 - 1980).

The focus of this exhibition will be the newly acquired oil painting, kindly donated by Janet Holmes.

It is called ‘The BRI’ (The Bristol Royal Infirmary), and it is important part of her Wartime works,

PERMANENT REMINDER: Norma Bull The Bristol Royal Infirmary. showing the bomb damage inflicted on the hospital in 1944.

Norma painted it while she was acting as an official wartime artist in the Bristol area and it is a welcome addition to the Permanent Collection.

About 200 of her etchings and paintings of war-torn Britain were exhibited at Australia House in 1947.

Norma returned to Australia after the war and for 12 months, followed Wirth’s Circus around painting circus scenes and people.

She then settled in Victoria painting landscapes and seascapes.

Spring Exhibition Featuring: ‘Celebration’- Glass Art ‘Mountains Near & Fair’ - Photographic Exhibition ‘New Exhibits’ - Alpine Artists & ‘Norma Bull’ - Permanent Collection 23 Sep - 1 Nov Gallery Hours: 28 Mountbatten Ave, Bright

Thur - Mon 10am - 4pm Ph: 03 5750 1660

www.brightartgallery.org.au

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

22

BRIGHT & DISTRICT

Adventures to be had this spring wherever you are WHETHER you’re in or planning a visit to Mt Buffalo, Bright, Beechworth or Myrtleford, Adventure Guides had an adventure option for you.

Their experienced leader team has been providing premium adventures on Mount Buffalo and throughout Northeast Victoria for over 38 years.

They will facilitate amazing private family or group adventures for you, or you can join one of their regular advertised activities on selected weekends and school holidays.

At Mount Buffalo or Beechworth, participants can challenge themselves with amazing abseiling adventures for from kids to experienced adventurers.

For the serious adventurer they offer their exciting Mount Buffalo 250 metre South Wall multi-pitch abseil challenge or the challenging 300 metre multi-pitch expedition on the North Wall of the Mount Buffalo Gorge.

Out on the Ovens and Kiewa rivers, the beginner’s white water rafting (sports rafts and pack rafts) provides exciting adventures.

ALL ABOARD: Pack rafting in Myrtleford is just one of the adventures on offer from Adventure Guides.

Their sit on top white water kayak adventures in easier water is ideal for beginners.

They also run the more challenging King River for the confident white water adventurer.

Other adventures include Rock Climbing,

Canyoning, Caving, Bushwalking and more.

For more information or to book your adventure, visit www.adventureguidesaustralia. com.au or email agati@netc.net.au or phone 0419 280 614 today.

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North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

23

BRIGHT & DISTRICT

From snow to sunshine SPRINGTIME is a great season for Dinner Plain, it’s one where the snowy playground joins the delights of high country sunshine.

The quiet mountain village, just 10 minutes beyond Mount Hotham, sits above the snow line at 1550m above sea level.

You can drive to it from both Harrietville and Omeo and you won’t pay any fees to enter this holiday village.

Set amongst the gnarled snowgums and alongside historic mountain cattleman’s huts, it is a step back to the pioneering times of the region.

With the regular snow season generally finishing at the end of September, Dinner Plain maintains its cross country ski trails and the country’s largest toboggan slope for springtime fun.

Neither of these rely on operating ski lifts so the September school holidays are definitely a great chance to enjoy this free family recreation in the North East’s backyard.

When the snow finally melts, it’s time for mountain biking to shine!

Dinner Plain’s mountain bike park has been the quiet achiever over the years, a true low gravity park with fast, flowing trails and super easy return climb.

The big difference is the layout and trail profile has been carefully planned to give options for younger and less experienced riders too.

With in-village bike rentals, free trail maps and no fees to pay, it’s a no brainer for an adventurous getaway.

Dinner Plain’s backyard is the Alpine National Park so you can expect loads of exciting options to get away from the beaten track.

You can experience camping under the stars at the historic JB Plain cattleman’s hut, or hike to the plunging 25m basalt cliff at Precipice Plain.

If you’re looking for something more intensive, the Razorback walk to Mt Feathertop, or Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing are both essential items for any bucket list.

From Dinner Plain you can set your base and explore to your heart’s content.

With thoughts starting to look towards Christmas, Dinner Plain is planning to return a revolutionary exhibition started last year, the Dinner Plain Festival of Light.

Illuminating the village in a way like never before, across the Christmas and New Year’s period the village’s high country huts and snowgums will be transformed into a dazzling

interactive exhibition of light.

When the sun goes down, be prepared to be astounded by the spectacular scene set by thousands of fairy lights, festoons, colour washes and glowing towers.

The installation has been designed by the suppliers of White Night and is set to be a stunning exhibition unlike anything seen in the high country before.

With all of this comes the comforts of home, including luxury free-standing accommodation and a village that is pet-friendly for family pooches.

Eat and drink at an enviable range of quality outlets that include country pubs, high class dining, boutique gin bar and great value day-time treats.

Hotel High Plains (the biggest pub in town) will be ready to launch their huge new beer garden this green season, the included smoker barbeque and smoked meat menu is sure to be a hit this summer!

With interstate and overseas travel becomming more challenging, it’s great to know there is an idyllic holiday destination close by in the Victorian mountains.

Australia’s greatest snowplay destination is likely to become your favourite green season escape as well.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

24

CHILTERN

Discover wonders in Chiltern’s National Park SPRING has sprung.

The grass is griz.

Or so the words of the old saying goes, and the truth of it is nowhere more evident than in Chiltern.

As the last vestiges of winter make way for longer daylight hours, there is a new energy in North East Victoria’s clear air.

The Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park comes alive as birds return from their winter travels to sit and preen in the box ironbark trees, or swoop and dive in a feeding frenzy in these pristine surrounds.

They have returned to Chiltern to breed and sing their hearts out just for you.

But it’s not only the birdlife that makes the National Park so spectacular; small, secretive marsupials such as the Australian Phascogale may be spotted moving among the litter on the ground

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

searching for materials for their nursery.

Rare orchids and other wonderful native wildflowers burst through to make a colourful carpet among the stoic black ironbark trees.

The best time to be in the forest is at sunrise or dusk, but if you linger a little longer into the evening you may discover ‘ghost mushrooms’ (omphalotus nidiformis).

These unique fungi abound in the forest, creating a fantasy land as they glow among the trees.

It seems that the sky is always blue in spring - but not the greyblue of winter - instead, it is a vibrant blue with the occasional fluffy cloud drifting aimlessly by on the wings of an invisible air current.

Visitors to Chiltern are well advised to pause a little on these days and take time to contemplate what is happening around them.

PEEK A BOO: The secretive Australian Phascogale can be found in the Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros

25

CHILTERN

To market, to market CHILTERN Markets have worked with the Indigo Shire Council to rejuvenate and relocate to a location which benefits market goers and the Chiltern business precinct.

With an aim to increase visitors to the town every three months when the market is held, there has been an enthusiastic response from stallholders.

More than 30 sites were booked for the June 6 market which is held indoors at the Senior Citizens Hall and the Chiltern Memorial Hall to ensure it can go ahead regardless of the weather, but the event had to be cancelled at the last minute due to another lockdown.

The other three markets which are held during the year (September, December and March) are located in the Tourist Park which is only 20 metres from Conness Street businesses and 200 metres from the Memorial Hall.

With a varied range of stalls available including clothing, footwear, skincare, soaps and arts and craft items you’re sure to find the perfect gift for someone, or a special treat for yourself.

There is even a blade sharpener on site, Chiltern Railroaders will have their train sets set up and you can partake in a wagon ride around Chiltern.

Chiltern Tourism & Development Inc co-ordinate the markets and supply volunteers to assist.

Stall sites must be booked prior to market day as no areas will be available on the day.

Interested stall holders can email secretary.chilterntourism@gmail. com or head to the Chiltern Markets Facebook page.

Final markets for 2021 are to be held Sunday September 5 and Sunday December 5, COVID restrictions permitting.

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26

COBRAM BAROOGA

Strawberry fields and history abound THE Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo is more than just a place to go and pick strawberries it’s a place to step back in time and learn the history of the area.

The team at The Big Strawberry are passionate about enjoying their work and growing, creating and serving natural and delicious products from paddock to plate.

With a fully licensed café, indoor playground and gift shop on site, you can buy a range of jams, condiments and sauces which are all made on the premises.

Being fully licenced, The Big Strawberry even offers wine and fortified tasting and sales.

Their History Room offers history buffs or returning born and bred locals the chance to reminisce about the original Koonoomoo School, the Koonoomoo Tornado, and the early life of Murray Goulburn, the Big

Strawberry and the Arrow Raceway.

The Vintage Trail will have you agog at the collection of vintage machinery and historic markers, which include a horse dray from the 1900s, a sickle used in the 1950s and a working Fordson tractor used for towing a tobacco planter.

And for those who love bikes, vintage signs, pinballs and other memorabilia, you can’t go past the Mancave with its incredible story of a legendary car - the HO Down the Hume.

So make the trip to Koonoomoo and learn about the past and the present when you step inside The Big Strawberry.

BERRY DELIGHTS: A range of jams, condiments and sauces are all made on the premises at The Big Strawberry.

Enjoy

Our large range of meals and strawberry desserts including devonshire tea, big strawberry burgers, strawberry filled pancakes and home made ice creams. Our family style Cafe caters for groups large or small. Bookings preferred for large groups.

Taste

The selection of fruit wines and fortified, especially our iconic “Strawberry Crème” made here on the premises.

There is something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Play

The new indoor playground is a child’s factory of fun with tunnels, slides, ball pit and hours of entertainment.

Browse

Our large range of jams, condiments wines & liqueurs.

Pick

Strawberries straight from the patch to take home and enjoy. Strawberry season is Oct – Jan and April July (conditions permitting).

OPEN Seven days a week from 9am - 3pm (closed most public holidays) Please see website or Facebook for other dates

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Phone: 03 5871 1300 7034 Goulburn Valley Highway KOONOOMOO VICTORIA All products made onsite

27

GLENROWAN

Kelly country is calling KATE’S Cottage, Gifts and Souvenirs shop is named after Ned Kelly’s sister, Kate and is a replica of the ramshackle hut the Kelly family lived in.

Owners, Rod and Chris Gerrett, have lived in Kelly country their whole lives and its history has surrounded them since dancing with descendants of the Greta mob as youngsters.

“The story just keeps on expanding as donated historic items arrive, sometimes anonymously, to be preserved for display in the museum,” Chris said.

Kate’s Cottage is situated opposite the big Ned Kelly Statue on the corner of Gladstone and Kate Streets and features a huge range of Ned Kelly and Australiana gifts and souvenirs.

At the back of the shop is the Ned Kelly Museum; the story unfolds as you follow the interpretive display of pictures and panels.

Out in the yard you will step into another era - an authentic replica of the Kelly homestead, blacksmith shed, cheeky talking cockatoos and covered picnic area.

Life was tough for the Kellys and you will come away appreciative of your home with all it its mod cons and appliances.

EVER EXPANDING: Owners Rod and Chris Gerrett have owned Kate’s Cottage for 37 years.

PHOTO: North East Media

Bushrangers, produce and jellybeans THE story of the Ned Kelly Gang and their shenanigans in Glenrowan are legendary.

Many of the shops in the main street boast memorabilia, proudly and prominently displayed, and if you somehow miss them, you won’t miss the huge statue of Ned that graces one of the corners.

To learn more about Ned and his capture, you can attend one of the attractions or museums, or collect a copy of the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct walking map from one of the local businesses.

The map will take you to key sites of significance including Ann Jones’ Inn, the police shelter, the gravel contractors’ encampment, Ned’s capture site and many more.

But to really entertain the kids, why not travel through town to

a part of the Old Hume Highway named Jellybean Corner?

Unfortunately, there aren’t any lollies to be found, the corner named for a local cyclist who would always stop there on his loop from Wangaratta to enjoy a few jellybeans before he continued on.

Friends and family of the fellow (who has sadly passed on now) immortalised the location by erecting a sign and many of the local cyclists know exactly where they are headed if it’s a ‘Jellybean Corner plan’ for the day.

Once you’ve ‘been there and seen that’ meander your way along each side and delight in the boutique shops, collect a souvenir or partake of some fresh, delicious produce.

Ned Kelly Museum & Replica of the Kelly homestead Ned Kelly Museum is No. 1 for Glenrowan tourist attractions on TripAdvisor

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North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

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Visitor information Centres

wine

Eldorado Winton Wetlands

NORTH EAST albury Visitor information Centre railway Place, Cnr smollet & Young street p. 1300 252 879 e. info@visitalburywodonga.com w. www.visitalburywodonga.com

violet Town

alexandra Visitor information Centre 36 Grant street p. (03) 5772 1100 e. info@alexandratourism.com w. www.alexandratourism.com

Strathbogie Longwood

beechworth Visitor information Centre 103 ford street, p. 1300 366 321 e. visit_beechworth@indigoshire.vic.gov.au w. www.explorebeechworth.com.au

corowa Corowa Visitor information Centre 100 edward street p. 1800 814 054 (02) 6033 3221 e. tourism@federationcouncil.nsw.gov.au w. www.northofthemurray.com.au corryong Visitor information Centre 50 Hanson street p. (02) 6076 2277 f. (02) 6076 2152 e. vic@towong.vic.gov.au w. www.visituppermurray.com.au dinner plain Visitor information Centre 572 Big muster Drive p. 1300 734 365 e. info@dinnerplain.com w. www.visitdinnerplain.com

Barooga

Oxley

MulwalaCorowa

Dederang

Milawa

Eldorado

Moyhu Whitfield

Porepunkah Oxley

Cheshunt Wandiligong Strathbogie Longwood

Tolmie

Howlong

Mur

Bellbridge Granya ALBURY

Walwa

NSW visitor information centre

ray R

iver

Dartmouth Mitta MittaTallangatta

Milawa

Moyhu Whitfield

Dartmouth Mitta Mitta Porepunkah

Cheshunt Tolmie

benalla Visitor information Centre 14 mair street p. (03) 5762 1749 e. visitor.info@benalla.vic.gov.au w. www.enjoybenalla.com.au bright aLPine Visitor information Centre 119 Gavan street p. (03) 5755 0584 1800 111 885 e. alpinevic@alpineshire.vic.gov.au w. www.visitbright.com.au

Tallangatta

Merrijig

Merrijig Jamieson MELBOURNE

Jamieson MELBOURNE

Kevington

Kevington

euroa euroa HuB 50 Binney street p. (03) 5795 1199 e. euroahub@gmail.com w. www.euroa.org.au

mansfield Visitor information Centre 173 High street p. 03 5775 7000 e. visitorinfo@mansfield.vic.gov.au w. www.www.mansfieldmtbuller.com.au

myrtleford Visitor information Centre Post Office Complex, Great Alpine Road, p. (03) 5755 0514 e. myrtlefordvic@alpineshire.vic.gov.au w. www.visitmyrtlefordvic.com.au

rutherglen Visitor information Centre 57 main street p. 1800 622 871 e. info@explorerutherglen.com.au w. www.explorerutherglen.com.au

wodonga Visitor information Centre 69-73 Hovell street p. 1300 796 222 e. tourism@wodonga.vic.gov.au w. www.visitalburywodonga.com

glenrowan tourist Centre Vintage Hall, 54 Gladstone street p. 0409 780 222 e. vintagehallcafe@gmail.com.au w. vintagehallcafe.com.au

marysville information reGionaL arts sPaCe 11 murchison st p. 03 5963 4567 e. info@marysvilleinformation.com.au w. www.marysvilletourism.com

nagambie lakes Visitor information Centre 320 High street p. (03) 5794 1471 e. nagvicinfo@strathbogie.vic.gov.au w. www.nagambielakestourism.com.au

seymour Visitor information Centre 47 emily street p. (03) 5799 0233 e. visitorinfo@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au w. www.visitseymour.com.au

yarrawonga-mulwala tourist information Centre 1 irvine Parade p. 1800 062 260 (03) 5744 1989 e. tourism@yarrawongamulwala.com.au w. www.yarrawongamulwala.com.au

greater shepparton Visitor Centre 530 wyndham street Ground floor, SAM building at Victoria Park Lake p. (03) 5832 9330 1800 808 839 e. info@visitshepparton.com.au w. www.visitshepparton.com.au

mount beauty Visitor information Centre 31 Bogong High Plains road Main route p. (03) 5755 0596 1800 111 885 e. mtbeautyvic@alpineshire.vic.gov.au w. www.visitmountbeauty.com.au

omeo wangaratta Visitor information Centre Visitor information Centre 188/180 Day ave 100 murphy20street To Sydney Distance between towns (km) p. (03) 5159 1455 p. 1800 801 065 w. www.omeoregion.com.au e. tourism@wangaratta.vic.gov.au w. www.visitwangaratta.com.au

(25mi)

yea Visitor information Centre 2 Hood street p. (03) 5797 2663 w. www.visityea.com.au

30

GOORAMBAT

Get out to Goorambat GOOD food, good drinks and good times will be had by all when you visit the Goorambat Railway Hotel located in North East Victoria.

The historic Railway Hotel was built in 1884 and is a family-orientated hotel with dining room facilities as well as a billiard room.

Seating is available outside under the veranda or umbrellas to take in the breathtaking views of the Silo Art, which can be lit up at night upon request.

Goorambat Railway Hotel is part of Wiki camps, so you are welcome to park in the backyard and join them for a drink or meal.

If you need accommodation, Broken Creek Bush camp is only a five minute drive or there’s a farm stay option through Airbnb called ‘Top of the Hill House’, which is also only five minutes away.

Goorambat does have more than ‘just a hotel’ and after you’ve had a filling lunch or are settling in for a hearty dinner, why not check out the beautiful ‘Sophia’ wall art on display at the Uniting Church, or head across the road to the silos and admire the amazing Millie ‘Winking Owl’ and farm scene or the local Trewin family draught horses.

Small and larger groups can be catered for but

INSIDE OR OUT: With fantastic new outdoor furniture and artificial turf, as well as a pool table and plenty of seating inside, make the Goorambat Hotel your destination. bookings need to be arranged ahead of time and will be subject to current COVID regulations on gathering sizes.

So, why not invite your friends to meet you at the Goorambat Railway Hotel for lunch, dinner or drinks this spring?

59 HALLS ROAD, GOORAMBAT VIC 3725 5764 1206 ƟĤűѿ áĤĝűĤƪĝùǟң³ùƸǀƢĝùǟ ЄЅңnùƸĤ Ѿ ³ǀűĝùǟ ЄЅңЇƟů ĿżżƢùůĕùƸƢùōŦǙùǟŇżƸĤŦԡĿůùōŦ҅Ėżů www.goorambatrailwayhotel.wordpress.com

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

31

MANSFIELD & DISTRICT

Your first choice for a ballooning adventure IMAGINE spending the morning high above the Mansfield Valley, with Mt Buller as your backdrop.

A cool, yet perfect, sunrise ballooning experience might just be the ticket.

Or maybe you’d like to sleep in and take advantage of an afternoon balloon ride instead.

Whichever you prefer, Global Ballooning Australia can accommodate your wishes.

Global Ballooning Australia is the only ballooning company in Victoria currently offering afternoon adventures thanks to the cool, calm conditions in the Mansfield Valley.

Kiff Saunders started Global Ballooning Australia in Mansfield 29 years ago before relocating to the Yarra Valley but his love for the area has never wavered and now Georgia Croft (Head Mansfield Pilot) has returned to the region to take up the reins.

“One of the perks of the afternoon flights is the fact that you don’t have to get up at 5am to have your ballooning experience,” Georgia said.

“We offer the two flight times a day until the

UP IN THE AIR: Spring is the perfect time to book your ballooning adventure in Mansfield.

PHOTO: Ain Raadik end of October, when we cut back to just the three hour roundtrip sunrise tour.

“For the morning experience, we take off at first light and are up in the air by the time the sun rises, flying for around an hour before landing wherever the breeze takes us.

“Spring is one of the most spectacular times to get up in the air because of both the weather, and the views you get of blossoming trees and fields and the green pastures and mountains.”

Visit www.globalballooning.com.au today and book your flight.

The Jamieson Brewery has sat on the banks of the famous Goulburn River for over half a ÀÊûĦīěŅɉʇʇ ÊåûÝʇāûÊʇāÜʇĦâÊʇœěğĦʇ micro-breweries in Vic, it has held a reputation for high quality ales and hospitable country charm

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5953 Eildon-Jamieson Rd Jamieson VIC 5777 0678 contact@jamiesonbrewery.com jamiesonbrewery.com

(03) 5775 1105

SHOP 2/165 MT BULLER ROAD - MANSFIELD

www.snowymountainoutdoorcentre.com.au North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

32

MANSFIELD & DISTRICT

Make a date with the animals MANSFIELD Zoo provides a hands-on interactive experience with native and exotic animals in a relaxed and scenic wildlife park with sweeping views to Mt Buller.

Enjoy the glorious outlook as you meander the grounds alongside cheeky deer and kangaroo, fall in love with the mischievous meerkats and monkeys and take in the four awe-inspiring lions.

Two of these gorgeous lions are white - the only ones in Victoria and two of less than 100 in the world.

The Mansfield Zoo is beautifully laid out on 35 acres so there’s plenty of space to camp for a night if you’re looking for adventure and something a little different.

Visitors can feed many of the animals - just watch out they don’t

steal your food as well!

Family gatherings and social get togethers for a picnic or BBQ can be held in the beautiful grounds or in the undercover picnic area with free BBQ facilities.

There are two exciting additions coming soon to the zoo - magnificent maned wolves (once border restrictions allow movement) and a Melbourne Tram which will be part of their café precinct.

For now, bring your own food and meet the incredible animals already in the zoo - it will give you an excuse to come back later.

Open every day from 10am to 6pm, except for Christmas Day, the Mansfield Zoo is perfect for day trips or overnight stays with family and friends.

KING OF THE ZOO: The white lions are kept behind sturdy cages, but you can still get close to these magnificent creatures.

Pizza, Pasta, Parmas Homemade Ice Cream and more Home Delivery available Gluten Free & Vegetarian options

Mansfield Zoo is home to a large collection of native and exotic animals, many of whom visitors can feed.

O rd de er online www.omalleysmansfield.com.au

Come and feed deer, kangaroo, camels and many more animals!

Zoo activities and facilities include: +DQG IHHGLQJ RI PRVW DQLPDOV %ULQJ \RXU RZQ JHDU DQG FDPS RYHUQLJKW %RRNLQJV HVVHQWLDO *LIW VKRS DQG XQGHUFRYHU %%4 IDFLOLWLHV 'D\ SDVV HQWU\ WLFNHWV

OPEN DAILY 10AM TO 6PM 1064 Mansfield Woods Point Road, Mansfield Only 10 minutes from Mansfield on the road to Jamieson.

(03) 5777 3576

Email: Info@mansfieldzoo.com.au North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

EAT-IN & TAKEAWAY 7 DAYS

125 High St, Mansfield Ph: 5775 2296

MANSFIELD NEWSAGENCY manaunew@mansfield.net.au

NEWSAGENTS & STATIONERS s -AGAZINES .EWSPAPERS s (IGH #OUNTRY MAPS DIRECTORIES s !LL YOUR 3TATIONERY NEEDS s ,ARGE VARIETY OF #ARDS AND 7RAP s 4OYS 'AMES AND 3OUVENIRS s !RT 3UPPLIES s 4ELCO CREDITS

()'( 342%%4 -!.3&)%,$ 0( &!8 OPEN FROM 6AM EVERYDAY

33

MANSFIELD & DISTRICT

An art-maze-ing place to enjoy this spring THE High Country Maze is more than just a maze.

Set on five acres of award-winning gardens, the maze itself will delight young and old with its pixie faces, sculptures, art and giant topiaries.

But it doesn’t stop there - they also have world class art in their beautiful gallery and a delightful café.

The Café Bar offers fresh roasted coffee and a selection of teas, milkshakes, ice creams, scones, homemade food and a variety of cold drinks.

Many of the seasonal ingredients you find on the menu come straight from their veggie garden.

High Country Maze is also fully licenced and visitors can purchase wine, beer or bubbles to enjoy in the garden with a picnic or in the café.

The property is popular as a unique wedding venue for ceremonies and photos and also caters for birthday parties and group bookings.

From the beginning of November, when the evenings get longer and warmer, twilight drinks in the gardens will be held every Friday from 5pm to 8pm Also in November, as the spring blooms come to life, an Open Garden will be held each Wednesday from 11am to 3pm.

The art gallery and café will be open during that time for morning and afternoon tea.

The art gallery will also be open as part of M.O.S.T. again this year, and the first gallery exhibition opens December 10 from 2pm to 8pm.

Tony Pridham will be present at the exhibition entitled “My Life with Parrots” and will showcase some of his stunning work on parrots and cockatoos.

A range of prints and original work will be available for sale.

For more information on High Country Maze visit their website or Facebook page.

TRUE TO LIFE: Tony Pridham will showcase some of his stunning work in the ‘My Life with Parrots’ exhibition in December.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

34

MANSFIELD & DISTRICT

NEW SEASON: The ski runs of winter turn green in spring at Mount Buller.

PHOTO: Andrew Railton

Mansfield and district welcome you MANSFIELD and district has a lot to offer anyone who wants a relaxing holiday in pleasant surroundings, or a place to get the heart racing.

Mt Buller is known for some of the best downhill and cross country mountain biking tracks in Victoria.

The Mt Buller Bike Park is a worldclass destination and offers the ideal biking escape, with Australia’s first and only International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

endorsed Ride Centre.

Ride the extensive cross country trail network, hit the downhill trails with chairlift access, tackle the pump track, skills parks and more all just three hours from Melbourne.

Streams and rivers offer fishing and exploration and with a growing food and wine scene, you can pack a picnic of local produce to enjoy as you take in the gorgeous sights.

If you want to get on your high horse there are trails to follow

where cattlemen still drive their herds just like they did back when the bushrangers were known to frequent the area.

Craig’s Hut and Powers Lookout offer some of the best views and you can gallop from the summit of Mount Buller just like in The Man From Snowy River.

For those who would prefer a more sedate pace, the Great Victorian Rail Trail stretches from Mansfield and the foothills of

Victoria’s High Country all the way to Tallarook.

In Mansfield itself, coffee houses, cafés, pub-style meals and fine dining options are at your fingertips and the local wineries are also worth a visit, specialising in Chardonnay, Riesling and sparkling wines.

So, whatever sort of spring adventure you want to have, make sure Mansfield is included on your list of places to go and things to do you’ll be glad you went.

35

MARYSVILLE & DISTRICT

Marysville has risen from the ashes NESTLED in the foothills of Melbourne’s closest Alpine resort - Lake Mountain - are the villages of Marysville, Buxton, Taggerty and Narbethong.

Located only 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Marysville and surrounds is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and the outdoors.

The choices are plentiful, each allowing new memories to be made and new adventures to be shared.

A place to leave you feeling connected to the natural surrounds, the people and one another.

There is so much to do, that once here you will realise that you need to come back or spend a few more days exploring and of course you need time to just sit back, relax and take it all in.

Marysville and surrounds has waterfalls, walks, world class bike tracks, snow and autumn colours that the camera just loves.

Spring flowers you just want to sit amongst.

Take a picnic to Stevensons River and just relax.

MiRA (Marysville Information + Regional Artspace) offers friendly tourist information, the Phoenix Museum (exhibition about the 2009 fires) as well as a retail space

GORGEOUS: Gallipoli Park in Marysville is perfect to relax.

PHOTO: Robert Blackburn stocking locally made artisan wares and produce.

They now have two beautiful exhibition spaces with exhibitions all year round.

‘Mira’ means ‘look’, the perfect connection between Tourism and Arts.

MiRA is a tourist attraction all on its own and are open daily from 10am to 4pm.

They look forward to welcoming you soon.

SPRING IN MARYSVILLE

MiRa Marysville offers local knowledge, an intriguing gallery, artisan wares, art supplies, creative workshops & fabulous performances. Nestled in Marysville’s stunning natural environment and open 7 days a week, there’s always something for everyone Open 10am – 4pm daily. 11 Murchison Street, Marysville.

T: 03 5963 4567 www.marysvilletourism.com

NATURAL WILDLIFE: Ducks are regular visitors at Gallipoli Park.

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS Our beautiful gallery and arts space is constantly ´OOHG ZLWK VRPHWKLQJ WR LQVSLUH :KHWKHU LW EH an exhibition, performance or workshop there is always something going on to feed your creative appetite. Check in with MiRa on Facebook or head to our website for all thats happening.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

36

MARYSVILLE & DISTRICT

SPECTACULAR: Marysville offers something for every traveller and really comes to life in spring.

PHOTO: Robert Blackburn

Breathtaking sights and picturesque accommodation Heart of Marysville Rooftop Garden T-Bar & Lounge On Site parking Deluxe family rooms Deluxe Couples room with bath

(03) 5963 3225 info@towermotel.com.au 33 Murchison St, Marysville VIC 3779

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

your home in MARYSVILLE

PERFECT & SIMPLE

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towermotel.com.au

NESTLED in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Marysville is only 90 minutes from Melbourne and 30 minutes from Lake Mountain and the Alpine Resorts.

The family-run Tower Motel in Marysville could not be better placed for your getaway this spring and features a bar and rooftop garden.

There are 14 guest rooms with private bathrooms and views of the mountains to wake up to.

The Marysville Golf Course is only a two minute drive from the motel and there are plenty of boutique shops to explore in Marysville itself and the nearby towns of Taggerty, Narbethong and Buxton.

If you want to head out of town

and into the surrounding area, there are plenty of tracks to walk along.

Steavenson Falls is only four kilometres southeast from the town on the Steavenson River and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Victoria, with five cascades and a total descent of 122 metres.

Take a picnic and enjoy it beside the rushing river where the power of the falls will make your heart beat that bit faster.

Make sure you have your camera too so you can capture the magic moments to look back on fondly.

For a true natural getaway this spring, book into Marysville and experience everything it has to offer.

37

MILAWA & DISTRICT

Ride historical Milawa THE history of Milawa dates back to the time of the Aboriginal tribe of Pangerang, who were a sub-clan who occupied much of North East Victoria including lands in the Milawa area.

IN 1824 explorers Hume and Hovell passed through Milawa and Hovell named the area Oxley Plains after Sir John Oxley, Surveyor General of the Colony of NSW. The cemetery was established in 1864 and was expanded by approximately two acres within the first 12 months.

The original Milawa hotel was built in 1870 and the Milawa Town Hall, which was a Mechanics Institute and included a free library and spacious hall, opened in 1889.

In 1891, the Milawa Butter Factory was established and by

1896, it was one of the largest in Australia.

John Francis Brown was 18 years old in 1885 when he planted 10 acres of Riesling, Muscat and Shiraz grapes on the Milawa property, which is one of the most well-known wineries in Victoria.

Milawa makes an excellent choice for a base and you can bring your bikes and ride along the shared walking-riding path to Oxley (12km return) on the Pedal to Produce ride or to Wangaratta (40km return) as part of the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail.

The path is sealed and of a low gradient, suitable for people of all ages and abilities, which makes it pleasant for walking or wielding a pram along as well.

So make your way to Milawa this spring to enjoy all the history on offer.

For more than just olives, call in at

Tastings | Local Produce | Fine Wine

Open daily from 10am 1605 Snow Road, Milawa (03) 5727 3887 www.theoliveshop.com.au

PEDALLING ALONG: The Pedal to Produce and Mountains to the Murray Rail Trail are popular rides from Milawa.

PHOTO: VisitVictoria North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

38

MILAWA & DISTRICT

Milawa’s mouth-watering options LOCALS and visitors to the North East Victoria region speak with enthusiasm about the Milawa Gourmet region, and it has garnered much attention over the years from TV hosts eager to experience it for themselves.

The home of locally grown and produced cheese, wine, olives,

honey, nuts, bread and much more, Milawa should be number one on your list of places to take family and friends when they come to visit.

Less than three hours from Melbourne, 15 minutes from Wangaratta and 25 minutes from Myrtleford, Milawa is an easy drive

from almost anywhere.

When it’s warm enough, you can swim at the Ovens River Reserve or from Markwood-Everton Road Bridge and there is a BBQ and playground for the children at John MacAleese Park.

A monthly Saturday market is held in the heated and air

conditioned hall (COVID restrictions allowing) and you will find locally produced goods and wares.

There are numerous accommodation options along with food and petrol to fuel your body and your vehicle so you can keep exploring the region, or to get you home again.

Meet the growers at EV Olive Groves and indulge in the taste of “prize-winning olive oil and famous gourmet olives.”

OPENING HOURS by phone appointment

Phone (03) 57270209

Hum

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Wangaratta

Great Alpine Rd

EV Olives

We now open everyday, 7 days a week

Everton Myrtleford

Milawa Oxley

Snow Rd

Everton Road, Markwood.

Our bees collect nectar from the blossoming eucalyptus trees of North East Victoria, featuring distinctive and ėĞśŃĐŃŲƵơ ȋóǍŲƵƙơ ĶƙŲŤ ƭľĞ PŃķľ !ŲƵŦƭƙǔ to the River plains. Enjoy our Raw, cold extracted honey; creamed and other varietals everyday. Our happy bees make the best honey.

Walkabout Apiaries is also the home of Whitehead’s Mead. Made on site and crafted from our local honey and ơĞóơŲŦóśśǔ ơŲƵƙĐĞė ĶƙƵŃƭɔ !śóơơŃĐ (ƙǔɏ Sweet Red Gum, Spiced and Melomel styles available to taste.

Visit our farm gate shop: 1531 Snow Road, Milawa, Victoria 10am-4pm Monday - Friday (closed weekends) walkaboutapiaries.com.au Ph (03) 5727 3468 North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

39

MT BEAUTY

Beauty and adventure at Mt Beauty SEPARATED from the small township of Tawonga South by the Kiewa River, and 30km west of the popular tourist town of Bright, Mt Beauty sits at the base of the state’s highest mountain - Mount Bogong.

Well known for its wine, produce and gourmet food, there are a number of wineries in the area that specialise in premium cool climate wines like Pinot Noir and Tuscan grape varieties.

There is even a craft brewery for visitors who prefer hops to grapes.

Keen anglers love to head to the area for in-season fishing in local rivers, lakes and reservoirs.

But for those who like a little more adventure, why not visit Big Hill Mountain Bike Park?

With more than 40kms of top quality cross-country and downhill

trails suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders, it’s a ‘must do’ for mountain bike riders.

The Kiewa River snakes through the town and offers clear, fresh water for cooling hot and weary cyclists.

Local cafés and restaurants offer gourmet home-style cooking, pizza, steak, seafood and poultry options but if that sounds a bit fancy, there is also a tavern and a hotel which offer pub classics alongside standard and boutique beer, wine, cocktails or cider.

With a supermarket, Post Office, specialty shops and pampering options in the main streets of Hollands Street and Kiewa Crescent, stop at Mt Beauty and experience all it has to offer this spring.

SCENIC TRAILS: Mt Beauty offers some spectacular views and more than 40km of mountain bike trails suitable for all riders.

ETHICAL | SUSTAINABLE | LOCAL | CREATIVE | HANDMADE A BOUTIQUE LIFESTYLE RETAIL & STUDIO EXPERIENCE. GATHER & HARVEST USES THE FINEST NATURAL INGREDIENTS TO CREATES A UNIQUE RANGE OF CANDLES, ³ ¨³ً (ç ¨« (È!Á³ً Á0 ³‫ ژ‬z( z ÁÈ« nnç (ç0( Á0æÁXn0³ Xz È« Xz‫ٮ‬R ȳ0 ³ÁÈ(X ِ á0 n³ «0JÈn «nç R ³Á z( ! z(È!Á á «k³R ¨³ z( !n ³³0³ِ È« «0Á Xn ³Á «0 z( ³ÁÈ(X X³ n ! Á0( Xz ÁR0 R0 «Á I ÁR0 0 ÈÁXIÈn àX!Á «X z RXJR! ÈzÁ«çِ á0 ³Á !k È« áz « zJ0 I ªÈ nXÁç ¨« (È!Á³ً ³ á0nn ³ ‫« !ژ‬0IÈnnç !È« Á0( « zJ0 I ¨« (È!Á³ ÁR Á IXÁ È« IXà0 0n0x0zÁ³ِ

18A HOLLANDS ST, MT BEAUTY OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK

P: (03)5754 1286

WWW.GATHERANDHARVEST.COM. AU

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

40

MYRTLEFORD

Perfect venue all year round THE Myrtleford hotel offers warm, cozy fireplace rooms in winter and a bustling beer garden in summer with background music or live bands on their outdoor stage.

With a capacity of 500 patrons across five separate spaces, the hotel caters for all types of functions including wedding receptions which can be held in the garden and make use of the beer garden and Sports Bar function room.

The Beer Garden is equipped with Victorian beers on tap and they have introduced a ‘Tinny Fridge’ with more than 50 brands of beer, mixed drinks and spritzers.

House wines are all local and have been individually hand chosen by owners Tim and Natalie Chapman from vineyards across the Alpine and King Valley region.

The Sports Bar includes a projection screen and surround sound, pool table and professional

SO MUCH TO OFFER: The Myrtleford Hotel can accommodate functions as well as casual get togethers inside and out. dart board.

The Sports Bar function room can accommodate 200 patrons and corporate clients can utilise

the large screen and PA system for presentations in theatre style, combined with in-house catering.

At night, the room transforms into

a Disco with a commercial sound system, dance floor and lighting effects.

The Public Bar has a large screen TV and pool table and is fully heated and air conditioned so the temperature is perfect regardless of the weather outside.

The Bistro dining room and cocktail lounge are set with eclectic vintage furniture and from midday, the Bistro provides top quality restaurant meals at a pub price with an American Diner menu.

From 5.30pm, a modern Australian menu is offered for dinner and features local produce and suppliers.

Four new accommodation rooms with balcony access and views from Myrtleford to Mt Buffalo are due to be opened in spring with six more rooms set for release in the next six months including a 10 person family suite.

Myrtleford Hotel is open Wednesday to Sunday from midday, serving Lunch and Dinner daily.

The newly renovated Myrtleford Hotel includes a Public Bar, Sports Bar with a Huge Screen, Beer Garden and Bistro Dining Room

Please call 0458 678 557 for Bistro reservations.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Cnr Standish & Smith Streets Myrtleford North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

41

MYRTLEFORD

Appreciation and story telling MYRTLEFORD’S Savoy Club is now the home for several gorgeous artworks by Indigenous artists, ready to be enjoyed by all visitors.

The club is one of the stops on the North East Aboriginal Art Trail, a series of art installations which showcase both the beautiful artwork of Indigenous artists and also the beauty of the North East.

Other stops on the trail include Albury, Tarrawingee and Rutherglen.

Savoy club president Mary Tomaino said the idea to install Indigenous art at the club came about when she visited the Rutherglen gallery.

“I went to Rutherglen at De Bortoli’s, they have all this Indigenous art,” she said.

“From there, Hans Sip, the curator, and I started talking and I said we should put some pieces at the club, because I wanted to see the Savoy club take a little bit of a new direction.

“We needed something different and I think after the first big COVID lockdown we had, I felt we needed to go somewhere different to bring people back into our regional area.”

The artwork was chosen to reflect the current multicultural community which is flourishing in Myrtleford.

“Indigenous art is just beautiful and we are a multicultural community,” Ms Tomaino said.

“We’re all second or third generation and there are still a few around that are first generation.

“Through art, and language, we

learn about people, that’s why I said let’s put some of this in our club.

“It is a permanent fixture at this stage and we’ve had 99 per cent positive remarks.”

Curator of the North East Aboriginal Art Trail, Hans Sip, said the pieces reflect a hugely diverse community of artists.

“Lockhart River is all of the bar and all of the entry, the dining area is Ngukurr, which is eastern Arnhem Land and then we have Jack Macale, he’s in the bistro, he’s from Fitzroy Crossing,” Mr Sip said.

“It’s a very diverse collection of art, and we wanted to make it eclectic so you’re not seeing all the one type of art.”

ART ALIVE: North East Aboriginal Art Trail curator Hans Sip and Savoy club president Mary Tomaino with some of the artwork.

PHOTO: Laurie Sullivan

Something for every taste and budget, join us now!

Traditional Italian Wood Fired Pizza

Myrtle St, Myrtleford

Ph.(03) 5751 1478

Open 5pm

Wednesday to Sunday www.bastonipizzeria.info bastoniinfo@gmail.com

252-254 GREAT ALPINE ROAD MYRTLEFORD

IDFHERRN FRP FOXEVDYR\P\UWOHIRUG #FOXEBVDYR\BP\UWOHIRUG

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

42

MT BULLER & BASE OF BULLER

Spring up to Mt Buller

ALONE, WITH FRIENDS OR THE FAMILY: There’s so much to do at Mt Buller whether you want to run the trails, take the family hiking or pack your bike.

PHOTOS: Andrew Railton WITH wildflowers bursting to life, Mt Buller is picture perfect in spring.

You might even find some lateseason snow to enjoy, if that’s your thing.

The gnomes can still be found and if you post a letter to them at the Gnome Tree on the drive up, they will even write back to you.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

With fresh mornings, mild daytime temperatures and bright sunshine, make sure you pack your camera so you don’t miss a moment.

The trails at the world-class Mt Buller Bike Park offer cyclists extensive cross-country and downhill trails, a pump track, a skills park and more.

The downhill trails even have chairlift access.

Pushbikes and mountain bikes can be rented in the village if you don’t want to bring your own.

Road cycling is also popular at Mount Buller and is a great way to train due to the high gradient of the road.

If you want to use the trails to hike instead of bike, you can do that too, with excellent trails available for all fitness levels.

Pick up a map of the area in the village before heading onto the mountain.

Camping is not allowed on Mount Buller but there are options close by.

43

SHEPPARTON

Greater Shepparton - many great things ESCAPE to the Greater Shepparton region and immerse yourself in the many great things on offer.

From exquisite local produce to contemporary art and great natural environments, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy the outdoors with a picnic at Victoria Park Lake or connect with nature and venture through the bushlands alongside stunning rivers which provides the perfect setting for native wildlife, photography, cycling and walking.

Experience the tranquil waterways through fishing, boating and canoeing.

Returning for the September school holidays is the annual Moooving Art Round Up - a treasure hunt for cows.

This is your chance for the whole family to explore the colourful and quirky Moooving Art Cow herd,

NEW DIGS: The new Shepparton Art Museum building is holding its opening weekend on October 15-17. spread throughout the Greater Shepparton region, track down answers to the clues and go in the draw to win a local experience voucher.

Families can enjoy the many activities on offer for those young

and young at heart.

Enjoy the aquatic fun at Aquamoves outdoor and indoor pools, climb over Australia’s largest outdoor adventure playground, KidsTown, jump around at the ultimate trampoline park, Rebound,

or challenge your friends to games at Fun Planet.

Explore Greater Shepparton’s diverse culture.

Everyone is welcome at the Shepparton Art Museum’s opening weekend October 15-17.

There will be celebratory exhibitions, activations and cultural programs.

Don’t miss Kaiela Arts - a place for local indigenous artists to connect, create and share art.

And get ideas about what to do in the region from the friendly team at the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre, all located within the SAM building.

Dive into the Food bowl of Australia and treat yourself to a regional dining scene, offering fresh locally grown produce.

Visit a local winery, brewery or cidery and relax with a refreshing beverage and delicious meal.

THINGS TO DO

With so many things to do you’ve got every reason to visit.

To discover all that Greater Shepparton has to offer call 1800 808 839 or visit www.visitshepparton.com.au

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

44

STRATHBOGIE & DISTRICT

An incredible cave of riches THE Rockery Gemstone Museum boasts an incredible nine rooms housing Maurie’s impressive collection of jewellery, crystals and polished gemstones, along with many display cases of jewellery, crystals and carved items for sale.

With free entry, you will feel like Aladdin in his magic cave as you step into this incredible collection.

You are sure to find stunning gemstones or a piece of jewellery that will catch your eye so you will be happy to learn that most of the items are for sale.

Maurie has a longstanding passion for precious gemstones and minerals and has sourced a vast array from around the world including new stock from Africa.

Maurie’s passion for gemstones began nearly 50 years ago and he began practising the art of cutting

NOT SO HIDDEN TREASURE: The Rockery Gemstone Museum has a massive array of cut and polished gemstones from around the world for you to enjoy and purchase. and polishing gemstones.

After many years collecting and perfecting his art, Maurie decided to make his collection available for public viewing, so he purchased a house to display his ever-expanding collection.

That was 22 years ago, and today The Rockery Gemstone

Museum is still going strong, as is Maurie’s passion.

Aside from the extensive collection of crystals and gemstones, The Rockery Gemstone Museum also includes tearooms for you to relax and unwind.

Individuals, group and bus tours are all welcome at The Rockery

Gemstone Museum, so come in today to experience the incredible wonder of gemstones.

The Rockery Gemstone Museum is at 31-33 Hill Street Longwood, phone 03 5798 5595 or email therockerylongwood@gmail.com.

You can also visit their website www.therockery.com.au.

Gemstones & Minerals Display & Sales Jewellery & Gem Crafts & Gifts Fossils & Fluorescent Minerals Model Holden Car Display Old Bottles & Wood Turned Items

Free Admission Open 10am-5pm Wednesday to Sunday, Public Holidays, School Holidays & bus and tour groups at all times by appointment

www.therockery.com.au | 31-33 HILL ST, LONGWOOD | Ph. (03) 5798 5595 North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

45

WANGARATTA

LOCAL ART: The work of Wangaratta Artists’ Society members including president Mary Ellis will be on display at the exhibition, with the raffle winner to take home one of Mary’s beautiful landscapes.

Artist group to celebrate 50 years of exhibitions A GROUP of local artists who have been gathering together to share their skills and passion for arts for over five decades will celebrate with a special exhibition in October.

Members of the Wangaratta Artists’ Society meet just about every day at The Studio in Batchelors Green, a place they’ve called home since 1980.

Close to the Wangaratta CBD, it’s hard to believe now the building was once the bull ring at the saleyards back in the 1930’s, before it was restored and turned into an artist’s hub.

Before then, they would meet by the Ovens riverside at a place known as Painter’s Island.

Members of the society spotted the potential of the building which was about to be torn down and gave it a new purpose; a place where likeminded people could socialise and create together.

President Mary Ellis said the group holds two major exhibitions a year and with last year’s event cancelled due to COVID, it promises to be a big celebration this time around.

“The studio is used five days a week with different groups using it each day,” she said.

“We also host workshops where members can learn from in-house tutors and from renowned local and international guest artists - we try to get the very best tutors we can.”

This year’s exhibition of framed works will include a wide variety of styles and mediums, including oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings along with pastels and drawings.

Subjects range from traditional landscapes to contemporary impressionist and abstract works.

Entry to the exhibition is free and there will also be a raffle with the chance to win a beautiful landscape painting made by Mary.

The Wangaratta Artists’ Society 50th annual art exhibition will run from October 20 to November 3, open daily from 10am until 4pm.

To find out more visit the Wangaratta Artist Society Facebook page or call secretary Marina Foad on 0403 970 173.

LIONS CLUB OF WANGARATTA Presents

Wangaratta Artists’ Society Inc. Reg. No. A0019666W ABN - 47890055819

50 thAnnual

Art Exhibition

October 20 - November 3, 2021

OPENING NIGHT Wednesday October 20, 2021 at 7:30pm Open daily 10am - 4pm. at “THE STUDIO” Batchelors Green (TRAIN) Park, Tone Rd. FREE ENTRY AND AMPLE PARKING Subject to COVID restrictions*

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

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47

WANGARATTA

The multi-award winning Vine Hotel THE Vine Hotel has earned a place in travellers’ and diners’ hearts and taken out the TripAdvisor 2021 Travellers’ Choice award.

The achievement celebrates businesses that consistently deliver fantastic experiences and receive exceptional reviews on TripAdvisor for the previous 12 months.

As challenging as the past year was, the Vine Hotel Wangaratta stood out by continuously delighting visitors.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be a 2021 Travellers’ Choice Award winner,” Vine Hotel owner and manager Jimmy Ladgrove said.

“We offer consistency with our quality of food, service and entertainment offering and it’s great it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“We pride ourselves in offering old fashioned quality hospitality in a relaxed and charming environment.

“Our food and menu is at the heart of everything we do and it’s fantastic to read so many positive reviews of visitors’ experiences.”

This latest award follows the one the hotel received in May this year for ‘Best Environmental Initiative’ at the Australian Hotel Association State Awards for Excellence for installing 144 solar panels on their roof and in adjacent vacant land.

The pub is now fully solar powered during the day, treated water is used on lawns and to keep patrons cool in the beer garden, their misting system uses water pumped from an on site well that dates back to the 1800’s.

“We have plans to build accommodation at The Vine to meet demand due to the cycle tourism boom and these will also be environmentally friendly,” Jimmy said.

In addition to taking out the Best Environmental Initiative award, The Vine was also a finalist in eight separate categories.

CELEBRATION: The Vine Hotel might be 150 years old, but that hasn’t stopped them taking out awards for excellence in service and sustainability in 2021.

“Hospitality and tourism has been the hardest hit over the past 18 months and we’re grateful for every day we are allowed to trade and welcome guests through this pandemic.”

The heritage-listed building has

an excellent outdoor space now with an outdoor kitchen, cocktail van, an undercover fully heated and cooled decking area and beer garden.

The hotel has its place in history as a drinking hole of Ned Kelly’s and the myth that Ned dug a tunnel

in the cellar to hide from the police under a railway track.

So whether you’ve visiting by bike or car, stop in at The Vine Hotel and experience true country hospitality in an award-winning setting.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

48

WANGARATTA

A perfect place for a spring getaway BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park is a quiet, peaceful park set on five acres of well-manicured lawn.

Situated only 3.5km from Wangaratta’s town centre in the heart of Victoria’s Wine and High Country region, you’ll want to make it your base as you explore the area.

Family owned and run, the staff at BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park pride themselves on their warm and accommodating hospitality and offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit everyone.

Whether you need a spacious drive-through site, somewhere petfriendly or like a grassy powered site, they have you covered.

For those who prefer to stay in cabins, you can choose from

standard or deluxe options.

There’s even an in-ground solar heated pool if you want to pack your swimwear.

If you’re a keen cyclist, then bring your bicycle as BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park has direct access to the Mountains to the Murray Rail Trail from its back door.

Take a day trip to Eldorado and learn about the dredge, go to Beechworth and stock up on honey and old-style lollies, visit Chiltern with its art scene or enjoy Wangaratta’s cafés and picnic lunches in one of the parks.

BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park is the perfect location to make your next stay so hook up the van, pack the tent or book a cabin and get away to Big4 Wangaratta this spring.

PLAY TIME: The playground at BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park will keep the youngest guests entertained.

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1 Bowser Rd, 170 N North Wangaratta Email: stay@northcedars.com.au E P Ph 03 5721 5230 w www.northcedars.com.au North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

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49

WANGARATTA

Supporting local and open longer THE Old Town N Country Tavern has been a staple, but is now better than ever with the kitchen cooking all day between 12 noon and 9pm.

That means they don’t close between lunch and dinner.

They also have a sports bar with full service TAB and Keno, a drive thru bottle shop, gaming room with 35 electronic gaming machines, two pool tables, a dining room/bistro and a function room.

The function centre and dining room can cater for meetings, public speaking events, conferences, birthday dinners, family get togethers and even wakes given their close proximity to the Wangaratta Cemetery and North East Funerals and Mason Park funeral homes.

With a private entrance, smoking courtyard, bar, bathrooms and pool table, the function centre is a completely self-contained space for guests.

SELF-SUFFICIENT: The function centre is a completely selfcontained space for guests.

Accommodating more than 200 guests for stand up service or 100 for sit down meals when COVID restrictions allow or 60 people when the one person per square metre rules are in place.

Classic pub meals are available in all areas with big serves and quality food made from scratch, however a specific menu can be arranged for functions.

From burger patties to schnitzels,

to Napoli sauces, they make everything in-house with the aim of having minimal food coming out of a jar or the freezer - you’ll taste the difference.

The Old Town N Country Tavern is the only pub in Wang with a kids’ playground and their drive thru bottle shop is open until 11pm every day.

Their wine menu is designed around supporting local with more than 95% of the wine list coming from North East Victoria and they have a delicious cocktail menu.

With low-priced kids’ and seniors’ meals with generous portions offered every day for lunch and dinner, you’ll want to take advantage of Parma night on Tuesdays as well as long lunches or dinners on weekends.

So when you’re deciding on your next function venue or where to meet for after work drinks - make The Old Town N Country your number one choice.

KITCHEN OPEN 7 DAYS

12pm - 9pm

We don't close between lunch & dinner 174 Greta Rd, Wangaratta

03 5722 1788

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

50

WANGARATTA

The coolest place to hang out anytime THE chef behind @Charlies in Wangaratta, Mark Manson, is not only a local but has a passion for cooking great food.

Having cut his teeth cooking at local wineries in the King Valley, Mark has recently opened his own restaurant in central Wangaratta and reports on his food are nothing but positive.

And it’s not hard to see why - as Mark bakes his own bread every day, uses a range of local produces, makes his own sauces, doesn’t use any preservatives and offers vegan options.

Cooking a selection of burgers and bistro meals all day, @Charlies offers a relaxing atmosphere whether you’re after lunch, dinner

or drinks with friends and family.

They even offer local delivery if you just want to sit back and let your food come to you.

Families are welcome and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained before and after the meals with pool and ping pong tables.

You might even go just for the ping pong - because who doesn’t like a bit of friendly rivalry between friends or siblings?!

National beers are on tap and there are a range of cocktails, local wines and local beers to whet your whistle.

So the next time someone asks, where should we go to eat?

Give Mark at @Charlies a try you’ll be glad you did.

TOP CHEF: Mark Manson is a passionate chef and local, striving to produce the best meals possible using local produce and his own sauces.

@Charlie’s RESTAURANT BAR

Cooking All Day. Tuesday to Saturday 11:30am-8pm Corner of Reid St & Victoria Parade North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

Dine in or Takeaway - 0444 540 010

51

WANGARATTA

Celebrating 15 years of Bowness Photography Prize AN exhibition which celebrates a photography prize that for over a decade has pushed the boundaries of the photographic medium is being held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery in spring.

In 2020 the Bowness Photography Prize marked its 15th year and to celebrate, Monash Gallery of Art (MGA) curated an exhibition bringing together the winning artists from 2006 through to 2020.

It features a selection of their works drawn from the MGA collection showcasing contemporary photography in Australia.

In a unique partnership, this exhibition has been curated for Wangaratta Art Gallery, making it the only regional venue it will visit.

Established in 2006 to promote excellence in photography across all photographic media and genres by both established and emerging artists, the annual William and Winifred Bowness Photography Prize is an initiative of the MGA Foundation.

The Bowness Photography Prize has become an important survey of contemporary photographic practice and one of the most prestigious prizes in the country.

The prize reveals artists’ continued fascination with exploring and pushing the boundaries of the photographic medium, embracing its capacity to explore a diversity of voices and perspectives.

In addition to the winning works from the past 15 years, MGA included additional works from their permanent collection from those same artists, exploring their practice and diversity and highlighting the MGA’s collection.

Curated by MGA Gallery Director, Anouska Phizacklea, the exhibition is being held in Gallery 1 until November 14 with information on curatorial talks and public programs available by visiting www. wangarattaartgallery.com.au.

STRIKING IMAGE: Among the photographs in the exhibition is Hoda Afshar, Portrait of Behrouz Boochani, Manus Island 2018, from the series Remain, pigment ink-jet print 100.0 x 86.0cm, Monash Gallery of Art, City of Monash Collection, donated by the MGA Foundation ©Hoda Afshar, courtesy of the artist and Milani Gallery (Brisbane).

Bowness Photography Prize Celebrates 15 years A Monash Gallery of Art (MGA)Travelling Exhibition Gallery 1 | 21 August - 14 November Image: Kathy Mackey, Reliquary 1, 2006, pigment ink-jet print, 45 x 75cm. Monash Gallery of Art, City of Monash Collection, Courtesy of the artist.

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

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53

YARRAWONGA/MULWALA

So much to see and do in Yarrawonga

FUN IN THE SUN: For those seeking fun, be it on the water or dry land, food or family, shopping or sunbaking, Yarrawonga/Mulwala has it all.

SITUATED on the banks of the Murray River and Lake Mulwala, the twin towns of Yarrawonga and Mulwala are a hive of waterways, farm gates and golf courses.

You’ll be spoiled for choice, with plenty of opportunities for fun and/ or relaxation for the whole family.

Enjoy a round of golf, explore the river beaches and walking tracks, sample local wines and produce, check out the museums and take in the views from the water.

Long days of sunshine make for

water-based fun all year round and Yarrawonga and Mulwala are the events capital of the Sun Country on the Murray region with a variety of events offered throughout the year.

Along the Murray in the heart of Yarrawonga Mulwala you’ll find Lake Mulwala, a popular spot for water sports activities.

Enjoy a paddle or even take a cruise - the options for self-drive, charter or tours are many, as you meander the inland waters.

A highlight is Chinaman’s Island,

which is a haven for wetland birds.

Walk or cycle the wheelchairfriendly interpretive nature trail, carefully revegetated with indigenous plants.

On or by the water, on the green or down the walking trail, there’s action and relaxation in equal measure.

Off the vine, or from the kitchen, wander the Farm Gate Trail and indulge in luscious culinary satisfaction.

Immerse yourself in the heritage

of the region such as the opening of the Yarrawonga Weir in 1939 which created the lake as part of the largest irrigation system in the southern hemisphere.

Learn more about the history of the area through a self-guided walk along Lake Mulwala or a visit to the Pioneer Museum.

Shop till you drop in the boutique stores of Belmore Street offering clothing, books, holiday gear, gourmet treats, unique gifts and much more.

Yarrawonga Mulwala Visitor Information Centre Irvine Parade, Yarrawonga 03 5744 1989 All accommodation bookings go to www.yarrawongamulwala.com.au email tourism@yarrawongamulwala.com.au North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

54

YACKANDANDAH

Not backward in coming forward HANDCRAFTED in Victoria’s High Country using 100% Australian grains, Backwoods Distilling Co. takes inspiration from its beautiful bushland backyard to produce small batch Australian Single Malt and Rye whiskies, and a High Country Gin. Backwoods Distilling Co. was founded by Leigh and Bree Attwood in 2017.

Raised in North East Victoria, they returned to the region with their young family after years of city-living, working and travelling.

A love of whisky, science and craftiness soon evolved into a dream to open a distillery and Backwoods Distilling Co was the result.

Backwoods Distillery Door, located at the Yack Station Precinct, is a destination for visitors to see production first-

hand, experience tastings and purchase bottles.

The tasting room sits alongside the production area, so while you’re taste-testing the whisky and gin, you can also enjoy the aroma of a ferment bubbling away and the trickle of the spirit running from one of the stills (affectionately named Stillvester and Stillvia).

Visiting the tasting room is also the best chance to get your hands on a bottle of Backwoods internationally acclaimed spirits.

Recent awards include a silver medal at the World Whiskies for the Rye whisky, and silver at the London Spirits Competition for the Rye and High Country Gin. The Single Malt whiskies sell out in record time, with travellers visiting from all over the country to secure a bottle.

DISTILLING PERFECTION: Backwoods Distillery Co. offer tastings of their award-winning whiskies and gin.

PHOTO: @bechaycraft You can visit Backwoods Distillery Door from Thursday to Sunday each week.

For opening hours or to book a tasting session visit www. backwoodsdistilling.com.au.

EXPERIENCE AWARD WINNING WHISKY AND GIN HANDCRAFTED IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

VISIT US: Our distillery door is open for tastings and bottle sales: THURSDAY-SATURDAY, 11AM-5PM & SUNDAY, 11AM-4PM Yack Station Precinct, 6 Turntable Lane, Yackandandah Go to our website for bookings, contact details and online sales. www.backwoodsdistilling.com.au

North East Tourist News - Spring 2021

A season’s symphony

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