Summary
In the northeastern region of Victoria, Wodonga is one of a pair of cities situated on the Murray River, facing its counterpart Albury across the New South Wales border.
Adjacent to Wodonga is the largest military museum in the country, offering insights into how the foundation of modern Australia was established at the former Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre.
Approximately 1 in 20 Australians are descendants of immigrants who passed through this centre following the Second World War.
Wodonga also boasts stunning vistas along the Murray River, at the expansive Lake Hume reservoir, and within the nearby Alpine Region.
1. High Country Rail Trail
The trail stretches 35 kilometres between Wodonga and Tallangatta, situated at the eastern edge of Lake Hume and offers a multiuse pathway that showcases a remarkable diversity of natural beauty.
Following the original course of the old Cudgewa railway line, the route connects Wodonga with Cudgewa, located 110 kilometres further east.
This railway line ceased operations in 1981, and now visitors can hike, cycle, or ride along this scenic stretch as it winds around the southern shore of Lake Hume.
The path leads you through the Murray River floodplain and the red gum forest near the Kiewa River, eventually reaching the south shore of the lake where one can take refreshing dips or simply admire the delightful views.
Notably, the most striking section is the 600-metre bridge bridging the Sandy Creek inlet, located approximately halfway along the path.
2. The Army Museum Bandiana
Located just outside Wodonga, the Army Museum Bandiana is the largest and most comprehensive military museum in Australia.
Situated at the Gaza Ridge Barracks, this museum has considerably expanded since its inception in 1972, with collections representing numerous Australian Army units and documenting every conflict from the First World War to the present day.
More than 150 military vehicles are on display, including tanks, cars, motorcycles, APCs, Land Rovers, and half-tracks.
Additionally, visitors can explore artillery, uniforms, machine guns, heavy equipment, handheld weapons, medals, medical supplies, and significant artefacts sourced from battlefields.
3. Huon Hill Parklands
Sitting directly to the east of Wodonga, the grassy summit of Huon Hill rises to 263 metres above the Kiewa and Murray Rivers.
Visiting this location provides stunning panoramic views that encompass Wodonga, Albury, Lake Hume, and both the Kiewa and Murray Valleys, along with the majestic peaks of the Alpine Region.
On clear days, the visibility extends to Mount Bogong, which towers at 2,000 metres approximately 100 kilometres to the southeast.
Be sure to bring a camera, as the vistas are best captured from scenic lookouts, with ample facilities encouraging longer visits.
Visitors can traverse trails extending up to three kilometres, as well as utilize picnic shelters and electric barbecues.
4. Lake Hume
During the interwar period of the 20th century, the Murray River was dammed, leading to the creation of the expansive Lake Hume.
The Hume Dam represents a significant civil engineering endeavor, standing 52 metres tall and extending 1.6 kilometres in length.
Visitors can walk along the top of the dam, enjoying splendid views of the reservoir framed by the outlines of the Alpine Region’s peaks.
For decades, individuals have been drawn to the verdant shores of Lake Hume for activities such as camping, swimming, waterskiing, and boating.
Fishing enthusiasts will find ample opportunities; with a Victoria state fishing license, one can catch Murray cod, perch, rainbow trout, carp, brown trout, and redfin in abundance.
5. Bonegilla Migrant Experience
Located a mere ten minutes east of Wodonga, on the shores of Lake Hume, lies the historical site of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre.
This centre was established on a former Second World War training base to accommodate and train new arrivals to Australia during the post-war immigration surge.
Among the 300,000 individuals who passed through Bonegilla were notable figures such as politician Franca Arena, business executive Arvi Parbo, and the parents of actor Eric Bana.
It is estimated that approximately one in 20 Australians have connections to this centre, rendering the museum attraction on site particularly poignant.
The experience provides valuable insights into the aspirations and challenges faced by the nation’s post-war immigrants, as well as the underpinnings of contemporary Australia as a multicultural society.
Guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
6. Butter Factory Theatre
Located between the two towns, on the Wodonga bank of the Murray River, visitors will find a theatre situated in a repurposed dairy building dating back to 1928. This venue underwent transformation into a dedicated theatre space in 1997 and serves as the primary stage for the Hothouse Theatre Company, which produces a seasonal lineup of innovative, independently-crafted plays each year.
The theatre has a seating capacity of 162, in addition to a studio designated for smaller performances, workshops, and educational programs.
7. Belvoir Park
Located just a short distance from Wodonga’s central business district, this park features mature trees and a large lake surrounded by a multiuse trail.
Visitors can enjoy timeless summer days picnicking, barbecuing, or crafting their own pizzas using the community wood-fired oven.
Belvoir Park is also renowned for its intricate children’s playground, which offers climbing nets, slides, a climbing wall, a liberty swing, and elevated platforms and decks.
Moreover, this park is particularly accommodating for dog owners, providing biodegradable waste bags at no charge at the entrance, alongside two agility runs provided by Mars Petcare.
8. Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk
The Wagirra Trail follows the northern bank of the Murray River, extending between the South Albury Trail and Wonga Wetlands to the west.
This scenic path provides a beautiful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while remaining in close proximity to Wodonga and Albury.
Two meters wide and paved, the trail meanders through natural bushland and landscaped parklands.
Special features begin at Kremur Street on the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, which stretches five kilometres enriched with artworks created by local Aboriginal artists. These pieces are complemented by interpretive boards and videos that detail local indigenous history and the cultural significance of the Murray River.
9. Murray River Canoeing
With its gentle flow, the Murray River provides a tranquil and enjoyable experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a day of leisure in Wodonga and Albury.
There are two companies located on the opposite bank at Noreuil Park, offering a variety of kayaks and canoes for hire, complete with necessary equipment, maps, and transportation logistics included in the package.
These enterprises, Murray River Canoe Hire and Canoe the Murray River, offer experiences ranging from 90-minute excursions to multi-day adventures.
For those with their own means of transport, it is possible to acquire a kayak or canoe and take it to Lake Hume for several hours of enjoyment.
10. Wonga Wetlands
Situated a short distance up the Murray River on the Albury side, Wonga Wetlands encompasses a series of lagoons and billabongs that have transitioned from former grazing lands.
This expansive conservation area spans 80 hectares, supporting numerous bird species and featuring ancient red gum trees and scarred trees.
Access is convenient, taking less than 15 minutes from central Wodonga to traverse the trails and observe wildlife from six bird observation hides.
The Wiradjuri campsite offers insight into indigenous history and culture over centuries, while the visitor centre is housed within a historic homestead dating back to the 1890s.
The optimal time to visit is likely winter, when the lagoons and billabongs teem with pelicans and swans. In spring, as the waters recede, wading birds arrive to forage along the muddy shores.
11. BOUNCEinc Wodonga
Families can expect hours of entertainment at this expansive indoor activity centre.
BOUNCEinc Wodonga features over 40 interconnected trampolines, a high ropes course, climbing wall, air mat for acrobatics, a dodgeball court, and a “Supa Slam” arena designed to facilitate slam dunks.
For younger visitors, there is a three-storey jungle-themed playground to explore. Should you need a snack, the café offers healthy light meals and desserts.
12. Les Stone Park
Situated just a few blocks from Wodonga’s center, this lush outdoor area lies along the banks of House Creek.
This green space is suitable for a relaxing picnic or utilizing the shaded barbecue facilities available.
A walking and cycling path runs through Les Stone Park, linking it to a chain of neighboring parks (Pam Stone, Phill Adams, Gerard Moylan, Carl Fietz), enabling extensive walks in nature while remaining within town limits.
A wetland and jetty for fishing are located at the far end, complemented by a large children’s playground recognized as one of the best in Wodonga.
13. Wodonga Creek Miniature Railway
On the third Sunday of each month from February to December, children and their parents can enjoy rides aboard a miniature train, powered by either steam or diesel locomotives.
Featuring vintage railway cars, these trains travel along Wodonga Creek at Diamond Park, maintained by dedicated enthusiasts.
Adjacent to the train track is a playground, while the ticket office provides hot and cold beverages, snacks, and souvenirs.
14. Rutherglen Wine
It is noteworthy that vines have thrived in the Rutherglen Wine Region for 170 years, dating back to the Victorian gold rush era.
This area, located just west of Wodonga, enjoys a continental climate reminiscent of regions such as Rioja, Burgundy, Jura, and Douro.
Rutherglen is celebrated for its high-quality dessert wines, particularly Muscat and Topaque, and also produces complex red varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Durif, and Shiraz, along with crisp white wines from Chardonnay and Marsanne.
Key wineries and cellar doors to consider visiting include Scion Wine, All Saints Estate, Chambers Rosewood Vineyards, Buler Wines, Lake Moodemere Estate, Campbells Wines. The Rutherglen Wine Experience and Visitor Information Centre provides an excellent introduction to the regional offerings.
