Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Wentworth, Australia

The longest and third-longest rivers in Australia converge at this town located on the New South Wales–Victoria border.

The narratives of the Darling and Murray Rivers are deeply woven into the history of Wentworth, which was the largest inland port in the state during the early 20th century.

At this confluence, visitors can ascend a viewing tower to observe the contrasting hues of the two rivers, while the Murray-Darling region is recognized as the traditional land of the Paakantyi and Maraura Aboriginal communities.

This area is rich in cultural heritage, with nearby museums and national parks to explore, alongside a semi-arid landscape featuring striking red sand dunes and ancient lakebeds, interspersed with thriving vineyards.

1. Darling River Run

Beginning at the junction where Australia’s third-longest river merges with the Murray, follow the Darling River Run for an authentic Outback journey.

This approximately 950-kilometer driving route is designed to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace over four days.

Along the route to the northern trailhead at Walgett, visitors will encounter Indigenous heritage, ancient rock art, picturesque red dunes, historic pubs, vineyards, grand groves of mature red gums, secluded lakes, and historical mines, among other attractions.

2. Old Wentworth Gaol

Upon its completion in 1881, Wentworth’s gaol was notable for being the first prison constructed in Australia, and by the time of its closure in 1928, there had been no recorded escape attempts.

This single-storey building, designed by James Barnet (1827-1804), was constructed using bricks fired on-site combined with bluestone sourced from Malmsbury, Victoria.

After its closure, a portion of the gaol was repurposed as a school, while the majority of the structure remained intact.

The guided tours offer an insightful view into the conditions of incarceration in 19th and early-20th century Australia.

Participants can enter a cell, experience the somber atmosphere, and engage with detailed interpretive displays that convey the gaol’s historical context.

3. Junction Park

Junction Park is situated where the Darling River curves to join the Murray, providing a serene riverside retreat.

This site marks the intersection of two of Australia’s major rivers, offering visitors a tranquil place to relax amidst the eucalyptus trees while serving as a noteworthy tourist site.

If you visit during the high water seasons, make it a point to climb the observation tower to see how the muddy hues of the Darling River contrast with the sparkling waters of the Murray.

The park’s gazebo features informative panels detailing the historical significance of the Darling River and its role in the early trade of Wentworth.

Afterward, enjoy a leisurely picnic while observing the local waterfowl.

4. Perry Sandhills

Approximately a few kilometers west of Wentworth, visitors will find a stunning expanse of shifting red sand dunes that extends over 330 hectares.

These enchanting dunes, which appear almost magical at sunset, were formed after the Last Ice Age and continue to reveal ancient remains of mega fauna and artefacts, indicating Aboriginal habitation.

One remarkable sight at Perry Sandhills is a River Red Gum at the northern entry, almost entirely enveloped by sand, with only its canopy remaining visible, still flourishing with leaves.

5. Wentworth Pioneer Museum

At this museum, visitors can explore the rich tapestry of Wentworth’s history, characterized by stories of creativity, courage, and innovation, showcasing more than 3,000 artefacts.

The Wentworth Pioneer Museum is particularly noted for its extensive photography collection, highlighting riverboats on the Murray and Darling Rivers as well as architectural styles from the early colonial era.

Additionally, as a gateway to Mungo National Park, the museum serves as a useful introduction, displaying fossils and life-size models of the mega fauna that once roamed the park’s ancient lakes and the Perry Sand Hills.

This includes giant wombats, kangaroos, lions, and emus.

There are comprehensive displays detailing river trade history and an exhibition dedicated to the 1956 Murray River Flood.

6. Australian Inland Botanic Gardens

Located en route to Mildura is Australia’s only semi-arid botanic garden.

Established over 150 hectares, it opened to the public in 1989 and features native and exotic plants that thrive in Wentworth’s warm and arid climate.

The mallee collection is particularly exceptional, featuring eucalyptus specimens that could be as ancient as 2,400 years.

Also of interest is the rose garden, which includes 1,600 carefully arranged bushes according to color.

To enhance your visit, a weekly tractor train ride is offered on Saturdays at 11:00, while Garnpang Homestead and coffee shop provide hot beverages, snacks, and handmade crafts, along with a special homemade breakfast on the fourth Saturday of the month.

7. Lock 10

The disruption of trade on the Murray River during the early stages of European settlement, compounded by floods and drought, was addressed in the 1920s with the development of a system of locks and weirs.

Lock 10 in Wentworth, completed in 1929, is an important point for visitors to observe boats navigating along the Murray River from strategically placed picnic tables.

The adjoining weir was constructed to control water flow, ensuring irrigation availability during times of drought.

This system has altered the ecological balance of the Murray River, yet recent measures have been implemented to foster its recovery.

One such initiative is the installation of interconnected pools, or “fishway,” along the lock’s structure to facilitate fish migration upstream.

8. P.S. Ruby

The stunning P.S. Ruby, a 132-foot paddle steamer, has been transporting visitors along the Murray River since 1907. It was intentionally engineered with a shallow draught and remained in operation for approximately 30 years.

After a significant period of decline, P.S. Ruby underwent an eight-year restoration commencing in 2004, restoring its polished brass fittings and exquisite woodwork, and it has since been powered by a 1926 20nhb engine.

Further information on scheduling can be obtained from the Wentworth Visitor Information Centre.

9. Wentworth Wharf

This wooden jetty along the Darling River harkens back to an era when Wentworth was the busiest inland port in New South Wales and the second busiest port overall after Sydney and Newcastle.

The original Wentworth Wharf, constructed in 1879, fell into disrepair by 1983 and was subsequently replaced by a replica.

This now tranquil setting invites visitors to reflect on a time when various vessels filled the riverfront.

During peak traffic, as many as 31 steamers could be docked at Wentworth Wharf within just a week.

Nearby stands a statue honoring Captain John Egge (1830-1901), a Chinese immigrant and early Wentworth resident who played a pivotal role in the development of river trade along the Murray Darling.

10. Mungo National Park

Wentworth and Mildura are the nearest significant towns adjacent to a strikingly unique landscape located to the northeast.

Mungo National Park is often described as having a “lunar” appearance, characterized by white sculpted sand dunes and ancient, desiccated lakebeds.

Within this harsh yet breathtaking environment, the remarkably preserved remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman were unearthed, both dating back approximately 40,000 years.

Access to the park is restricted because this landscape has served as a traditional meeting site for the Nyiampaar, Muthi Muthi, and Barkinji Aboriginal Nations for millennia.

However, visitors can explore expanses of this alien terrain, partake in guided tours for an Aboriginal perspective, and discover archaeological and natural historical insights at the visitor center.

11. Wentworth Military Collection

Wentworth has established connections to the military, highlighted by the presence of an RAAF base at Mildura Airport, which conducted bombing exercises in the surrounding Shire during World War II.

This hazardous endeavor resulted in the loss of 52 Australian lives.

The collection encompasses uniforms, weaponry, photographs, medals, documentation, field equipment, regalia, models, and more, covering conflicts ranging from the First and Second Boer Wars to the ongoing military operations in Afghanistan.

The self-guided tour lasts approximately 70 minutes, employing modern technology to enhance the experience through automatic triggering points and exhibit scanning for deeper understanding.

12. Riverboat Rod’s Model Paddle Steamer Display

Paddle steamers were crucial to the economic development of Wentworth, and a local craftsman has honored these vessels through his artistry.

Riverboat Rod has meticulously designed and constructed numerous scale models of paddle steamers, with some requiring up to 700 hours to complete.

The impressive intricacy and attention to detail is noteworthy, and many of his creations are displayed in museums nationwide.

A collection of over 30 models is permanently exhibited at Rod’s charming shop, conveniently located by the Murray-Darling junction, and is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 16:00.

13. Vineyards and Wineries

Wentworth is situated in the Murray-Darling Wine Region, the second-largest wine-producing area in Australia.

The region’s viticulture began with the planting of the first vines in the 1880s, and varietals such as Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon are frequently distributed to wineries throughout Australia.

Although earlier efforts emphasized quantity over quality, more than 30 boutique wineries have emerged in recent years, offering opportunities to explore the regional viticultural landscape.

A popular winery and cellar door is Trentham Estate, which produces a diverse range of varietals including Shiraz, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir, with options for tastings and upscale dining overlooking the Murray River.

14. O’Donnell Park

Another peaceful spot adjacent to the Murray River can be discovered a short distance upstream in Curlwaa.

This park is named after Larry O’Donnell, an early resident of Curlwaa who significantly contributed to local agriculture and irrigation initiatives.

In addition to providing a site to relax and allowing children to play, the park also holds historical significance.

Major Thomas Mitchell camped here in 1836 after verifying the earlier discovery of the Murray-Darling junction by explorer Charles Sturt six years prior.

A cairn and plaque commemorate this historic event, along with a monument dedicated to the 1956 Murray River Flood, which was described as the “greatest catastrophe in South Australia’s history.”

15. Lake Cullulleraine

Situated along the Murray River at Lock 9, this naturally occurring lake, only filled during floods in the past, was transformed into a reservoir for nearby farms in the 1970s.

The majority of Lake Cullulleraine’s foreshore is designated as parkland, featuring two caravan parks, and a walking trail that spans over ten kilometers encircles the lake.

The area is also home to a sizable sporting complex equipped with various facilities, including football fields and tennis courts, offering numerous water activities during school breaks.