Natural Rutherglen
Nature and the natural. While recent history has seen farmers and winemakers use the fertile lands of Rutherglen to their advantage, the story is much longer than that.
Like most rivers, the Murray River is always moving, always changing and over time altered its course to carve out Lake Moodemere, in the process creating the microclimate that influences our harvest of the fruits of the land today.’
Two Aboriginal tribes, the Bangarang and Wiradjuri, call this land home; their borders pass through what is now Rutherglen, while Lake Moodemere was an important meeting place for the Whroo, part of the Bangarang people.
It’s easily accessible and wonderfully rich. Take a walk through the trees and absorb the history of this country’s traditional landowners.
What You Can Do
Short Walks with a Story
Every story has a walk and every walk has a story. Explore the many easy trails with stunning views of grapevines, bright yellow canola fields, awe-inspiring, ancient River Red Gums. Places with deep connections to First Australians and to the pioneers of wine.
Lake Moodemere
Spend the day exploring this beautiful area, walking the 12km trail around the huge natural billabong – an offshoot of the mighty Murray River – with its rich indigenous history, majestic red gums, abundant birdlife, lovely picnic places and, in between, cosy cellar doors offering fine wines and luscious fortifieds to taste and take home.
Murray River
The iconic Dungala or Murray River is right on our doorstep, flowing past the historic village of Wahgunyah, just minutes from Rutherglen and many of our famous wineries. The world’s 16th longest river, the Murray has been a source of life for thousands of years, supporting the unique environment and fertile flood plains that saddle the river.
Bird Watching
Surrounded by reserves, forests, wetlands, lakes, rivers and open wooded country in every direction, Rutherglen, Wahgunyah and surrounds is a twitcher’s paradise. There is great bird watching to be had all year round, though autumn and spring are particularly exciting with migratory birds on the move.