Swan Hill

on the Murray River

In 1836, Mitchell camped on a rise by the Murray that he named after the swans that disturbed his night's sleep (source: Parks Victoria. Swan Hill on the Murray River claims more sunny days than the Queensland Gold Coast.

For tourists, the Pioneer Settlement recreates old Murray River life 1830 - 1930, and there are wineries, river cruises, a pheasant farm, Mohair farm and Lakeside Gardens. South of Swan Hill is Lake Boga, a popular watersports venue with jet skiing and parasailing. During World War II the area hosted Australia's principal flying boat base.

Swan Hill Historic Township, Victoria; photo Jon Armstrong 2002, courtesy Tourism Victoria

Attractions:

Paddle steamers and houseboats on the Murray River
Pioneer Settlement Museum recreating a nineteenth century Murray River settlement
Mid nineteenth century Tyntyndyer homestead
Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery
Nyah and Vinifera State Forests and Boundary Bend
Lake Boga water sports, Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum
Wineries
Kaiser Stereoscopic Theatre
Art deco renovated Town Hall now Swan Hill Performing Arts & Conference Centre

Just the facts:

Swan Hill Rural City Council
Swan Hill Online
Robinvale Euston Website
wikipedia entry
Getting there: 344 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, Swan Hill is approximately 3.5 hours from Melbourne on the Murray Valley Highway.