Horsham is the capital of the Wimmera in the wheat growing district of western Victoria. On the highway linking Melbourne and Adelaide, it has excellent shopping, dining, and accommodation options. The Botanic Gardens established in 1873 and located alongside the Wimmera River, along with May Park, are attractive parks and gardens in Horsham. The Wimmera flows through Horsham, with parklands and ancient red gums lining much of the river. One can enjoy a picnic and beautiful walks past special points of interest taking in the native grass reserve and wetlands.
The Public Art and Heritage Trail in and around the CBD, the Regional Art Gallery showcasing Australian photography, the Town Hall complex, the Aquatic Centre, mini golf, ten pin bowling, Horsham Golf Course and cinema are some of the many attractions in Horsham.
Attractions surrounding Horsham
- Grampians National Park, renowned for its rugged mountain ranges, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenic views. You can explore the Grampians driving along the road network, enjoy a picnic or discover any of the many walking tracks to waterfall vistas, ancient geological rock features, forests, and rocky lookouts.
The park has a rich human history displayed at Brambuk Cultural Centre. Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung Aboriginal people lived their indigenous lifestyles around the mountains and valleys for thousands of years before Major Thomas Mitchell passed through in 1836, opening the way for European settlement, grazing, gold mining, quarrying, timber production, water catchments and tourism. Plant and animal species abound in the Grampians and by late September the native plants will showcase their colourful spring flowers.
The small village of Halls Gap, nestled in the heart of the Grampians National Park, showcases stunning views of rugged cliffs and inquisitive wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and birds. Lake Bellfield and Halls Gap Zoo are short drives from the village and worth a visit. - East of Horsham, and on the highway, is Green Lake, perfect for a relaxing picnic.
- A short drive west of Horsham is the small town of Natimuk and nearby Mount Arapiles, one of the top rock-climbing areas in Australia. Drive to the lookout for spectacular views of the Wimmera Plains and Wheat Belt, a patchwork of magnificent crops growing in all their glory. If you are keen on experiencing sunrise or sunsets, this lookout will be an experience for you to remember.
- There are many wineries near Horsham and the Grampians for you to discover the local wines.
- The Wimmera-Mallee Region Silo Trail – the first silo was painted in Brim in 2015 and now the trail stretches over 200 km and celebrates the rich heritage of Victoria’s Wimmera/Mallee region, showcasing the country’s biggest outdoor gallery.
You will find a warm welcome awaits you in the Wimmera. We hope that you take some time to explore our region during LWA Convention.
Main image above: Pop Up Park 3 – By Ayesha Sedgman
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