History, culture and charm...

the gateway to the Darling River and outback NSW.


DISCOVER THE RICH PAST

The Wentworth Shire and Darling Outback showcases over 150 years of pioneer settlement and 40,000 years of indigenous culture.

As a mark of admiration the authors of this document wish to acknowledge the Barkindji people, the Traditional Owners and occupiers of country in this area and in doing so recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

While in the region check out these great attractions... 

 Standing the test of time

 Scattered throughout the Wentworth Shire and Darling Outback are historic buildings and structures - a legacy to the pioneers and engineers of times long past.  From the grandeur of large homesteads nestled along the rivers, to historic schools, churches and courthouses (in regular use since 1879).  Lift-span bridges still operate to facilitate navigation of larger river vessels, long retired farm and household implements are displayed in local parks and the Pioneer Museum, all a tribute to the perseverance of our pioneers and their strong will to provide for their families.  Graziers were the first to arrive – the various ports flourished. Irrigation later turned the region into an ‘oasis in the desert’.  What a legacy our pioneers have created.

THEGOA LAGOON AND INDIGENOUS TRAILS

 The Aboriginal people the ‘Barkindji’ (or Paakantyi’) living along the Darling River referred to it as the ‘Baaka’ meaning ‘belonging to the river’.  The Baaka was the life source for the Barkindji people providing the spiritual connection and essential food, clothing and tools for life in this sometimes harsh environment.

The Thegoa Lagoon with its proximity to the Murray Darling junction was a natural ‘meeting place’ where Aboriginal people gathered for Corroborees.  Nothing’s changed – it remains an idyllic ‘meeting place’. 

A self-guided tour will expose the walker to its natural beauty and the prevalence of the archaeological sites – including middens, hearths, (fireplaces) and scar trees from which canoes, shields and tools have been crafted by the Barkindji people.

The keen observer will marvel at the Boundary Tree a remarkable example of the Aboriginal ability to graft branches together to create an eye or ring in the tree.  Visible from a distance this was a clever way of marking a tribal boundary.

Thegoa Lagoon Reserve offers walk and drive trails and a bird hide to observe flora and fauna within minutes of Wentworth and the popular Murray Darling river junction.

Thegoa self-guided tour brochures are available at local Visitor Information Centre’s.

Out and About….

Wentworth Trail

Travel back in history  ….   at your own pace.

Visit 34 points of interest as you are guided about Wentworth on the Wentworth trail.  The tour of the historic Port of Wentworth begins at the Visitor Information Centre, 66 Darling Street.  It highlights historical buildings, from the old Post Office built in 1899, to the Town Hall (1844) to the cultural sites such as mussel beds and middens.

  Australian Inland Botanic Gardens

An oasis in the desert.

Take the time to discover the jewel of Sunraysia with a visit to the beautifully landscaped botanic gardens. There’s the Garnpang Homestead Gift and Coffee Shop, rose gardens and plants representing every Australian State and territory on display. A ‘Big Breakfast and Market’ is held on the 4th Saturday of every month at the Homestead.

  Perry Sand Hills

A natural wonder of Wentworth.

Explore the drifting sands of this ice age formation, home to mega fauna fossils and a World War Two RAAF practice range.  Enjoy a quiet stroll over the hills or go wild with the endless fun to be had up and down the dunes. 

  Visitor Information Centre Gallery

There is always a new exhibition or display to be seen at the VIC Gallery, including but not limited to sculptures, paintings and photography by artists from all over Australia.

Visiting the free gallery provides the perfect introduction to the regions rich environmental, cultural and historical past.  The Visitor Information Centre and Gallery is the perfect place to commence your visit.

For more information call into the Wentworth Visitor Information Centre or visit www.visitwentworth.com.au

or phone 03 5027 5080.

PS RUBY - THE AUTHENTIC 1907 HERITAGE PADDELSTEAMER

Built in Morgan, S.A. in 1907, as a ‘side wheeler’ the PS Ruby (or the Paddle Steamer Ruby) is currently the flagship of the historic Port of Wentworth.  ‘Side wheelers’ were designed and built for their manoeuvrability and were ideally suited to the unpredictable and sometimes treacherous Murray River.  Whilst the PS Ruby had an industrious life as a cargo and passenger vessel operating between Echuca, Mildura, Wentworth and Goolwa she now rests in dry dock within the confines of Fotherby Park Wentworth.  Recognising the historic value of this iconic vessel the Rotary Club of Wentworth purchased the neglected PS Ruby in 1968, and successfully completed an extensive restoration process which now has the Ruby being presented to the public as an authentic and operating paddle steamer of its era.  Having completed the restoration Rotary have handed ownership to the Wentworth Community in the trusteeship of the Wentworth Shire Council.

You can step back in time on a guided tour of PS Ruby.  Contact Wentworth Visitor Information Centre on 03 5027 5080 to enquire about tour times.

WENTWORTH 

MILITARY MUSEUM

WENTWORTH

Wentworth Military Collection

Discover our Nation’s proud military history with the Marching Matilda Experience. Hosting both an adult and junior tour, this newly installed, self-guided, state-of-the-art audio installation, showcases military exhibits from all over the world with a complete timeline of Australian service and sacrifice.                                                                              

Open Daily 10am - 4pm 

Museum Curator: 0434 549 401  

Shop 11 Wentworth Place, Wentworth

E: info@wentworthmilitarycollection.com

HISTORIC ATTRACTION

WENTWORTH

Old Wentworth Gaol

A self guided tour of the Gaol allows you to inspect the inside of a historical land mark, designed to serve a vast region. The Wentworth Gaol now stands as a vivid reminder of those harsh and uncompromising days. The Gaoler's residence has an extensive range of souvenirs, giftware and a range of old wares.

Open 10am - 5pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.

Beverley Street, Wentworth   Ph.03 5027 3337

MUSEUM

WENTWORTH

Wentworth Rotary Pioneer Museum

Wentworth's Pioneer Museum offers history dating back 1.8 million years! Indigenous artefacts and mega-fauna displays feature fossils from Wentworth and Mungo National Park. Explore the rich history of river trade and pioneer settlement in Wentworth. 

117 Beverley Street, Wentworth     (Opposite the Old Gaol) 

E. rotaryclubofwentworth@gmail.com

Phone 03 5027 3160

ARTISAN STUDIO

WENTWORTH

Went Weaving

Visitors to Went Weaving will observe weaving looms in action, a significant display of woven articles for personal and home use, many of which are for sale. Introductory and project based weaving classes are offered regularly with advanced classes on request. Commissioning work is available.

Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm. Most Weeks

37 Darling Street Wentworth. Mob 0427 056 678

 

GOLF CLUB

WENTWORTH

Wentworth Golf Club

Community run golf course, idyllic local course with 18 fully grassed fairways and greens. Regular competition days, licensed bar open on these days, all public welcome.

Costs: 9 holes $10, 18 holes $15

Clubs & Golf Buggies available for hire. 

Beverly Street Wentworth Ph. 03 5027 2325 or 0402 570 500

 

Racing event

WENTWORTH

Wentworth Racing Club

Experience the fun and excitement of a true outback picnic race meeting. Traditionally coinciding with the Melbourne Cup, we offer a family oriented event to be shared with friends, family and likeminded country folk. Marquees, Picnic tables, Fashions on the Field, and Children's entertainment are all part of the day.

On the first Tuesday in November. 

Ph 0400 724 475

LOCAL ART & CRAFT

WENTWORTH

Ruby's Cargo

Ruby's Cargo is a retail outlet which showcases a huge variety of locally made products. From metal and wood-work to gourmet food, we are proud of all the items produced by the women and men in our area who work from home. 

There is truly “Something for Everyone” at Ruby’s

Open 7 Days. Weekdays 10.00am – 4.00pm. 

Sat. 10.00am – 1.00pm. Sun. 9.30am – 12.00noon

64 Adams St Wentworth.  Ph 0455 038 816

 

HISTORIC ATTRACTION

WENTWORTH

RIVERBOAT ROD’S MODEL PADDLESTEAMER DISPLAY

Possibly the only collection of its kind in the world. Over 30 hand-crafted replicas with amazing intricate details. A lifetime of work on display.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm      Entry Gold Coin Donation

29 Darling Street, Wentworth   Ph: 03 5027 5080

 

tour packages

wentworth

Murray Darling Tours   E. info@murraydarlingtours.com

VISIT OR INFORMATION CENTRE

WENTWORTH

DARETON

CULTURAL GALLERY

DARETON

BMEET

Come and visitor our local Aboriginal art and craft gallery which showcases work by local Barkindji and other artists. See the ‘Big Didge’ – Australia’s largest playable didgeridoo. Cultural tours available by appointment, where local Elders or experiences artists will be on hand to share their culture knowledge. Discover our local Aboriginal history through this unique experience.

Mon-Fri 9am -3pm, weekends by appointment

1845 Silver City Hwy, Dareton         T: (03) 5027 4073

 

FARM TOURS & ARTISAN DAIRY PRODUCTS

DARETON

COOMEALLA DAIRY

Connect with nature & explore our family fun dairy farm, where happy goats make high quality milk!

While on tour you can pat & feed a baby goat by hand, watch a milking demonstration, learn all about goats & taste some of our delicious artisan dairy products.  

$10 per person (basic tour) Reservation required.     

109 Sandbar Rd, Coomealla NSW 2717      Call: 0431 448 492

 

MOUNTAIN BIKING

DARETON

BMEET

n intra-club of the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club with a purpose-built mountain bike course.

  • Trailhead just 10minutes from Wentworth approximately 1km past Coomealla Golf Club.
  • Overlooking the Murray River
  • Strongly encourages family participation riders aged from 5 years to over 70 years.

               

Golf Course Road, Dareton                T: 5027 4505

E: president@mountainlessbikeclub.net.au

BURONGA & GOL GOL

Botanic Gardens

BURONGA

Australian Inland Botanic Gardens

Be amazed at the array of Australian and exotic flora on display at the 50 hectare site. Explore the stunning gardens, soak up the solitude or join a trailer train tour. The Children’s garden is a great place to let the kids run free and enjoy numerous activities. Explore historic buildings and enjoy the coffee shop.

Open weekdays 8am-4pm, Weekdays 8am-4pm, 

Closed Christmas Day. 

1183 River Road, Buronga     Ph 03 5023 3612

E: ausibgmw@gmail.com

AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM

BURONGA

MILDURA HOLDEN MOTOR MUSEUM

If you appreciate the history of a well restored vehicle, then the Mildura Holden Motor Museum is a must stop if you are in the Sunraysia district. Come and enjoy a quiet coffee and lunch in the café while reminiscing over the history. And of course, there is a merchandise store there for you to take home a souvenir or two.

58 West Road, Buronga        T: 0408 830 989

E: info@milduraholdenmuseum.com.au

TOURIST ATTRACTION

BURONGA

Orange World

Enjoy a truly authentic rural experience. See 30 different citrus and avocado varieties. Learn how to grow and care for them at home and how to select good fruit in the market. Farm fresh fruit for sale all year round, Fresh juice, Orange World pancakes and cakes, gelati, café, souvenirs, orange blossom honey, free tastings and more available. 

Open 9:30 - 4pm Daily

Tours daily at 10:30am, 11:30am and 2:30pm                                        Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, New Years Day and the month of February.

93 Link Rd, via Silver City Hwy, Mourquong    

P. 03 5023 5197 or 0428 237 868 E: mammone@ncable.com.au

OLIVE GROVE & Cafe

BURONGA

Varapodio Estate

Olive oil cellar door sales and licenced café. Sales of locally produced olive oil soap and moisturizer, preserves, nuts, honey, dried fruit as well as an extensive giftware range.

Olive oil processing tours available by appointment.

Open Tues – Sun 10am – 4.30pm

Lunches Tuesday – Friday. Bookings preferred.

65-77 Hendy Rd, Buronga                   T: 0412 585 679

E: BurongaFreshCitrus@bigpond.com

WINERY & RESTAURANT

TRENTHAM CLIFFS

Trentham Estate

Relax on the picturesque banks of the Murray River, enjoy a gourmet lunch at the winery's restaurant or sample the award-winning wines from the cellar door. Houseboat moorings also available.


Sturt Hwy, Trentham Cliffs           Phone 03 5024 8888

E. info@trenthamestate.com.au

WINERY

MONAK

MONAK WINE Co.

Award winning, small batch, hand made local wines in a unique cellar door setting – also stocking local produce.

Cellar door open Friday & Saturday or by appointment – just give us a call.

You’ll find us by water river marker 918.

5691 Sturt Highway, Monak.               T: 0418 570 064

E: cindy@monakwineco.com.au

MILDURA

HISTORIC RIVER ATTRACTION

MILDURA

day tours

mildura

day tours

mildura

Murraytrek 4WD Adventures

POONCARIE

RACING EVENT

POONCARIE

Pooncarie Cup

The Pooncarie Cup is an enjoyable outback horse racing experience, established in 1891 and held annually on the NSW Labor Day weekend (usually October). The township of Pooncarie is set on the banks of the Darling River, making it a fantastic opportunity to bring along the family for a fun weekend of country racing, camping & fishing.

Pooncarie Racecourse, Pooncaire       T: 0418 505 507

E: pooncarierc@gmail.com

 

MENINDEE

River tours

menindee

River Lady Tours

Come on board the ‘River Lady’ with your hosts Rob and Deb. Cruise the ancient Darling River where 6000 Barkindji people once roamed.  Enjoy the serenity of Australia’s longest river system with abundant native wildlife.

Morning cruise (1 hour)    Sunset cruises available (2 hours)

You are welcome to BYO drinks and nibbles       

Bookings are essential

P: 0491 125 828       E. riverlady@riverladytours.com

VISIT OR INFORMATION CENTRE

MENINDEE

Menindee Tourist Information Centre

information on Menindee. The best places to camp and  fish, local and regional maps available, self guided tour information for the lakes and Kinchega NP (www.menindeeselfguidedtours.com.au), local arts and crafts, souvenirs and gifts, a mini museum featuring regional history and an Art Gallery and book exchange.          

Open: 10.00am -2.00pm Thursday - Monday  -  Closed: Tuesdays & Wednesdays

27 Yartla Street Menindee NSW 2879                      Ph: 08 80914274         E: menindeelakes@bigpond.com

WILCANNIA

tourism association

Wilcannia Tourism Association

Situated on the majestic Darling River, Wilcannia was once NSW’s third largest port. Boasting impressive sandstone buildings, dating back to the 1880’s there is much to see and experience. The police complex (1881), Rich & Co Emporium (1879), and the post office (1879) are but a few.

“In the middle of nowhere, the centre of everywhere!”

P: 0429 915 467

E: ecl47143@bigpond.net.au

www.wilcanniatourism.com.au

Wilcannia