River history in Echuca, gold history in Rushworth and Whroo, murals in Tongala and Stanhope, and gardens and trails: Campaspe Shire offers a range of themes for an exploratory trip. The towns and attractions vary considerably—from a museum with historical exhibits to a street art walking tour, as well as trails and activities on the water.

River History and Trails

The historic precinct of the Port of Echuca includes a Discovery Centre operated by Campaspe Shire Council, a museum, historic buildings and displays of equipment. There are also demonstrations, steam-powered exhibits and guided tours. Authentic paddle steamers depart daily from Echuca Wharf, and guided tours are also available daily. A small section of the wharf remains as part of the recreated tourist attraction. From there, a lookout offers views of the Murray River and the surrounding bushland. Check the current timetable before travelling by boat.

Those who prefer to explore on foot will find a variety of trail types. The 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail connects Rushworth with Murchison and passes Waranga Basin as well as bushland and farmland. In Echuca, the Campaspe River Walk is a 5-kilometre return route on a sealed walking and cycling path for walkers, joggers and cyclists. The Banyule State Forest also offers a 6-kilometre return walk through a network of trails among the area’s characteristic stately eucalyptus trees. The distances and trail descriptions make the difference between a longer connection and shorter return walks clear, without treating the trails as interchangeable.

Water activities are also among the options: Torrumbarry is a popular spot for water sports, fishing and camping. Camping, canoeing, walking and birdwatching are available on Gunbower Island. The Torrumbarry Weir Interpretive Centre, by contrast, focuses on the importance of the lock systems to the Murray River and water conservation; a photographic exhibition explores these themes.

History, Museums and Art

The Lockington & District Living Heritage Complex is a local history museum and resource centre. Its historical exhibits include a shearing shed, a blacksmith’s shop, a dairy shed and a historic classroom, as well as a PMG hut and a Masonic lodge. The collection also includes a restored tram, a pop-top caravan, locally built tractors and a steam car. It therefore spans buildings and working life as well as vehicles.

The Rushworth Easter Heritage Festival is held every year on Easter Saturday. It showcases local businesses and tourism offerings, along with produce, crafts, talents and skills. Whroo offers a different perspective on the gold history: the village was established in 1853 at the foot of Balaclava Hill, after more than 20,000 ounces of gold had been discovered there. Today, Whroo is a ghost town with walking trails and a picnic area. In the Rushworth and Whroo area, the Balaclava Gold Mine is closed to the public; the site can be viewed from surrounding lookouts. Check access information again before travelling.

Tongala’s central shopping area has more than 30 murals, and a walking tour of the award-winning street art is also available. In Stanhope, the Montevideo-Maru mural in the town centre commemorates the victims of the largest maritime disaster in Australian history. For sports history, the Rochester Sports Museum features memorabilia from, among others, Shane Warne, Adam Gilchrist, Merv Hughes, Greg Norman and Sharelle McMahon.

Gardens, Nature and Markets

The Gargarro Regional Botanic Gardens in Girgarre combine plant life with a sensory experience. A four-hectare sensory garden showcases native plants through the five senses: taste, touch, sight, smell and sound. A water feature and lookout offer views across the natural garden landscape while also providing information about the region’s plant life. The garden invites visitors to explore Australian flora and nature and reflects the dry landscapes of the Campaspe region. Girgarre also has a sound walk in a park-like setting.

Ghow (Kow) Swamp is a permanent wetland with impressive views and is popular with photographers. Another option for climbers and abseilers is Mount Hope Nature Conservation Reserve, which includes seven small granite outcrops suited to these activities. TwistED Science in Echuca offers interactive science experiences, including augmented reality activities about water, reaction tests, ball runs and tubes, paper aeroplane experiments, and a bubble-making room.

Farmers’ markets can also offer a glimpse of local produce. They are held regularly in the small towns and villages of Campaspe Shire. Depending on the market, you can buy fresh produce, preserves, local drinks, arts and crafts directly from local growers, bakers and craftspeople; live music may also be on offer. Dates and times vary from market to market.

Discover More Destinations

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For the overarching travel guide: Victoria.