The Riverina

The Riverina is a region located in south-western New South Wales in Australia. It’s an area rich with history and culture, and it has plenty to offer tourists who are looking for an unforgettable experience.  Let’s take a look at why so many people enjoy this wonderful area.

Wagga Wagga is in The Riverina & is the state's biggest inland city and the regional hub.  Tumut, is a town on the banks of the Tumut River and lies in the tranquil Tumut Valley. It sits on the north-west foothills of the Snowy Mountains, to the east of Wagga Wagga, and is referred to as the gateway to the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The waters around Tumut are renowned for trout fishing. Yarrangobilly Caves have fine calcite formations and there is a Thermal Pool nearby which is known for soothing aches and pains.

The Culture and History

The Riverina is home to some of the oldest Aboriginal sites in Australia. In addition, the area was influenced by waves of immigrants from Europe throughout the 19th century. This combination of cultures has resulted in a unique identity for this region that can be seen through its artisans, galleries, historical sites, festivals, and music. Whether you’re interested in discovering ancient Aboriginal sites or exploring European architecture from centuries ago, you can find it all here.

The Wildlife

The Riverina is home to a wide variety of wildlife that can be found both on land and in water. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of species that call this region home - over 500 species have been recorded! The wetlands are also an important habitat for many native species including frogs and fish. If you want to get up close with some friendly animals then head to one of the local farms where you can pet sheep, horses, cows and more!

The Landscape

The landscape of the Riverina is simply breathtaking - rolling hills dotted with gum trees form a picturesque backdrop against which visitors can explore all sorts of activities like camping or hiking. There are also vineyards which produce some excellent wines as well as several nature reserves where you can see rare animals and plants in their natural environment. The Murray River winds its way through this gorgeous landscape providing plenty of opportunities for fishing or boating along its banks.

Batlow is the heart of apple country and Blowering Dam is popular for picnicking, fishing and water sports. Cootamundra is home to the blazing beauty of the Cootamundra wattle in winter & boasts fine heritage buildings and ancient elm trees. The town of Coolamon has a series of holes which mysteriously fill with water from time to time. Lockhart's streetscape has distinctive wide verandahs and was once the haunt of bushranger Mad Dog Morgan. In Griffith the wineries offer tastings and cellar door sales. The Festival of Food and Wine is held annually at Easter. The Murrumbidgee flows through Hay and there are tranquil walks along the banks, sandy swimming beaches, water sports, fishing and wetlands for bird watching. Tumbarumba lies on the edge of Bago State Forest and is noted for its spectacular mountain scenery, the fuschia garden or the apple trees in blossom in the spring.

If you’re looking for an adventure filled with culture, wildlife and beautiful landscapes then The Riverina is just what you need! With its rich history and diverse wildlife there really is something for everyone here - whether it be birdwatching or wine tasting there are plenty of activities to choose from! Don’t forget to explore all that this magical region has to offer - you won’t regret it!