In this update

• Free Tourism Business and Event Listings
• From the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre
• What's On in Rutherglen 

  • Rutherglen Pedestrian and Safety Improvements

  • Sunset Spritz at The Victoria Hotel

  • Dive-in movie night at the Rutherglen Pool

  • Sunday Series at The Victoria Hotel

  • Super Tuscan Friday at James & Co. Wines 

  • Summer Nights at Lake Moodemere Estate

  • International Women's Day Brunch at Tuileries 

  • Tastes of Rutherglen

  • Rutherglen Tastes of Art

  • The Big Picnic & Cornhole Tournament at Buller Wines

  • Autumn Graze at Campbells Wines

• From the Chiltern Visitor Information Centre 
• What's On in Chiltern

  • Musical Bingo Fundraiser at the Telegraph Hotel

  • Lions Club Film Night - Kangaroo 

  • Chiltern Community Autumn Market

  • Chiltern Festival 

• Industry News and Support

  • Rutherglen in the media

  • Regional Events Fund 

Free Tourism Business & Event Listings
Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) 

Get your business discovered across multiple tourism websites and platforms, reaching millions of people (really!) and at no cost.

Is your tourism business or event missing from the official Rutherglen or Chiltern website? We can help you get listed for free and significantly boost your online visibility.

Why list with ATDW? 

You only need to create one FREE listing for your business or event and it will automatically appear on multiple sites and platforms including:

• visitvictoria.com
• victoriashighcountry.com.au
• explorerutherglen.com.au or 
• explorechiltern.com.au
• Victoria's High Country App
• Indigo's What's On calendar

Ready to get started? Check out how to create your ATDW profile here. If you need any help, please call, or email us: 

Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre
Email: info@explorerutherglen.com.au
Phone: 1800 622 871

From the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre

Hello everyone, 

Autumn is just around the corner and with it comes that familiar shift in the air: cooler mornings, softer light and the first hints of colour in the vines. Vintage is now in full swing, bringing a wonderful sense of purpose and energy across the region. You can feel the town beginning to hum as we edge closer to Tastes of Rutherglen and the Labour Day long weekend. 

While things have been a little quieter at the Visitor Centre, we’re still welcoming a steady flow of travellers. Visitors from Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania and even Europe have been making their way through, eager to experience the charm of our region during this beautiful time of year. Their enthusiasm is a lovely reminder of how special our corner of the world is, no matter the season. 

Summer breaks – business holidays

• Parker Pies is currently closed and will reopen on Monday 23 February 
• Pickers Café and Collectables is currently closed and will reopen on Wednesday 25 February 

Have a wonderful fortnight ahead. 

The Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre team

What's On in Rutherglen

Rutherglen Pedestrian Safety Improvements

Works have now started on the Main Street Pedestrian Safety Improvements. 

What to expect during construction:

• To minimise disruption where possible, crews will be using a combination of day works and night works. 

• During works there will be lane closures and speed reductions on the Murray Valley Highway (Main Street) at times. There may also be impacts on adjoining streets including High Street and the Chiltern-Rutherglen Road. 

• Crews will be working day shift between 7am and 5.30pm. 

• Footpath and business access will be maintained at all times. 

• To complete asphalt works as quickly and safely as possible, night works and full closures of sections of the Murray Valley Highway (Main Street) will be required at times.

• Crews will be working night shift between 6pm and 6am. 

• Short-term full road closures may be required at times. Impacted stakeholders will be notified directly ahead of any full road closures. 

• During road closures, detours will be in place as required. Please follow the direction of detour signs and traffic crews on site. 

Every effort will be made to minimise disruption, where possible. Please plan ahead and allow extra time. 

More information, please visit: https://transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/projects/rutherglen-pedestrian-safety-improvements

Sunset Spritz at The Victoria Hotel

The Victoria Hotel
90 Main Street, Rutherglen
Saturday 21 February
6:00pm - 10:00pm

What’s better than an evening spent revelling in that end-of-summer glow?

Sunset Spritz is your invitation to slow down, gather your friends and family, and raise a glass as the day fades into night. With DJ Jane Doe on the decks, spritzes flowing, and warm sunset hues all around, this one-night-only Beer Garden celebration is designed for easy moments, shared plates, and relaxed summer fun for all ages.

Dive‑in movie night at the Rutherglen Pool 

Rutherglen Pool
Friday 27 February
From 5:00pm  

Come along for an evening swim and a screening of Kangaroo, a heart‑warming Australian film about an unlikely friendship and the rescue of orphaned joeys in the Outback. 

Entry is free for Season Pass holders; standard entry fees apply to everyone else. Please note lap swimming won’t be available during the film. 

Sunday Series at The Victoria Hotel

The Victoria Hotel
90 Main Street, Rutherglen
Sunday 22 February
2:30pm - 5:30pm

Enjoy live music in The Victoria Hotel’s beer garden on selected Sundays. Relaxed music, golden light, and a cold drink in hand equals the perfect combo for a cruisy Rutherglen afternoon. Gather your crew, find a sunny spot, and let the good vibes roll. 

This is a free event. Walk ins welcome.

Super Tuscan Friday at James & Co. Wines

James & Co. Wines
136 Main Street, Rutherglen
Friday 27 February
From 5:00pm

Pizza By Five Letters serve carefully crafted, traditional-style pizzas from the onsite oven, with thoughtful toppings and perfectly balanced dough. Guests can enjoy James & Co.’s own handcrafted wines, specialising in Sangiovese and other Italian varietals sourced from nearby Beechworth and Alpine Valleys. Not a wine drinker? Beer, gin and tonics, and soft drinks are available too. 

Walk-ins only, no bookings required.

Summer Nights at Lake Moodemere Estate

Lake Moodemere Estate
12 Moodemere Road, Rutherglen
Friday 6 March – Tony Gardner Jazz Band

Experience the mystique of Lake Moodemere Estate by night under the starlit sky as you enjoy live music and a three-course dinner prepared by Chef Lewis. On Friday 6 March, enjoy timeless jazz tunes by world class musicians, the Tony Gardner Jazz Band. 

Tickets: $120pp ($100 for members), beverages purchased separately.

International Women’s Day Brunch at Tuileries 

Tuileries at De Bortoli 
13 Drummond Street, Rutherglen
Sunday 1 March
10:30am - 12:00pm 

Join Arts Rutherglen’s International Women’s Day for a delicious brunch and wine at Tuileries Restaurant.

The guest speaker, regenerative farmer and author Jade Miles, will share stories from her life, work and inspiring journey. With the bush in her bones and business in her head, Jade Miles is a storyteller, strategist, and regenerative farmer devoted to reweaving connection between people, place, and food. A founder of a food co-op and collaborative local food strategist, she was named Rural Woman of the Year (VIC) runner-up for her decade of work strengthening community-based food systems and championing regenerative practice. 

Your ticket includes a buffet style brunch with tea, coffee and juice, with wine available for purchase.

Tastes of Rutherglen

Friday 6 - Sunday 8 March 
10:00am - 4:00pm

With more than 200 wines to explore across 17 iconic cellar doors, you’ll discover everything from bold reds to crisp whites alongside Rutherglen's famed fortifieds. Taste your way through delicious chef‑crafted dishes, soak up live music and autumn scenery, and wander through sunlit vineyards while meeting the makers behind your favourite drops. With shuttle buses running between wineries, it’s the perfect autumn escape.

Rutherglen Tastes of Art

Soldiers Memorial Hall
150 High Street, Rutherglen
Friday 6 - Sunday 15 March 
10:00am - 4:00pm

Rutherglen Taste of Art is celebrating its ninth year in March 2026.

The Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize is an opportunity for artists to exhibit in a well established, popular show with visitors being able to purchase varied, creative works of exceptional quality.

Sections include painting, work on paper, photography, 3D and youth.

Friday is the gala opening night, a great way to toast the artists who have entered their marvelous works.

A very fine drop will be offered by Campbells Wines to all attendees and gourmet nibbles provided by Brooke Rasmussen, The Creative Cook and her team of hospitality students from Rutherglen High School.

The Big Picnic & Cornhole Tournament at Buller Wines

Buller Wines
2804 Murray Valley Highway, Rutherglen
Saturday 7 March 
11:00am - 5:00pm

The Big Picnic at Buller Wines is back and bigger than ever with sunshine, good vibes, great wine and a little friendly competition.

This year, turn up the heat with the official Cornhole Tournament, hosted in partnership with the Border Baggers Cornhole League. With just 20 teams competing in a round-robin format, spots are limited and bragging rights are very much on the line.

Teams must be pre-registered.

Wine, beer, drinks and picnic boxes will be available to purchase on the day. You are welcome to bring your own picnic.

Autumn Graze at Campbells Wines

Campbells Wines
4603 Murray Valley Highway, Rutherglen
Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March 
10:00am - 5:00pm

Enjoy cellar door tastings, vineyard platters and live music – all with a glass of Campbells wine in hand.

Bring your own chairs and picnic blankets to relax under the shady oaks.

From the Chiltern Visitor Information Centre

Hello everyone, 

It’s been lovely to see visitors returning as the days begin to cool. We’ve had a steady mix of birdwatchers planning their trips into Chiltern‑Mount Pilot National Park, along with enquiries about tours of Dow’s Pharmacy and Lake View House. It's always wonderful to see renewed interest in our local heritage.

A big highlight from the past fortnight was the Vingo fundraiser, which was a fantastic success. Not only was it a fun afternoon, but enough funds were raised to have the Atheneum Museum’s famous bottled snake professionally 're‑pickled'! Mortimer’s Lodge hosted beautifully, and Pfeiffer Wines certainly kept spirits high.

Looking ahead, we have a full and vibrant calendar, including: 

Sunday 1 March – Chiltern Community Market
9:00am–1:00pm

Friday 6 March – Chiltern Festival
Held in the grounds of the old Chiltern Courthouse

Sunday 8 March – Chiltern Rodeo
Racecourse Road, Chiltern

We hope to see you out and about enjoying these events and supporting our wonderful community.

The Chiltern Visitor Information Centre team

What's On in Chiltern

Musical Bingo Fundraiser

Telegraph Hotel
21-23 Conness Street, Chiltern
Saturday 21 February 
3.30pm arrival for a 4:00pm start 

Join the Telegraph Hotel team for a special bingo afternoon supporting a local community member undergoing cancer treatment. Tickets are $50 per person and include activities, music by Chain of Fools and a BBQ by the Girl Guides.

Lions Club Film Night - Kangaroo

Star Theatre
38 Main Street, Chiltern
Saturday 21 February
BBQ tea from 6:45pm | Film at 7:45pm

Enjoy a classic Chiltern evening at the historic Star Theatre as the Lions Club hosts a screening of the 2025 film Kangaroo. Start the night with a BBQ in the old barn, then settle in for the film followed by a friendly discussion and supper. Guests can also BYO wine.

To book the film only, tickets are $20 and you can pay cash at the door at 7:45pm

Bookings

• Email: hotson@westnet.com.au | chilternlionstreasurer@gmail.com
• Phone: Lois Hotson – 0457 262 358
• In Person: Chiltern Post Office
• Direct Debit: BSB 803070 | Acc 100033677 (Lions Club of Chiltern Inc. Activities)
  Use surname as reference.

Chiltern Community Autumn Market

Tourist Park
Main Street, Chiltern 
Sunday 1 March
9:00am - 1:00pm

The Chiltern Community Market offers a relaxed and family‑friendly day out, showcasing a wonderful mix of local artisan stalls, delicious food options and great coffee. After the market, take the opportunity to wander Chiltern’s charming historic streetscape and soak up the town’s heritage atmosphere. Make a day of it, enjoy a scenic drive and show your support for the region’s talented stallholders.

Chiltern Festival

Chiltern Courthouse Grounds
58 - 60 Main Street, Chiltern 
Friday 6 March
5:00pm - 8:00pm 

Join in at the Chiltern Festival on Friday 6 March. The first of five planned Get To Know Your Town events, it is aimed to welcome new residents, strengthen community connections and create spaces where locals - both new and long‑term - can come together, mingle and celebrate everything that makes YOUR town special.

Expect friendly faces, local groups, live entertainment, delicious food, kids’ activities, great conversations and that unmistakable Chiltern spirit filling the Old Courthouse Grounds.

Bring your picnic rug, bring your family, bring your neighbours: everyone’s welcome

Industry News and Support