In the Rutherglen Weekly

• From Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre 
  • Summer Nights at Lake Moodemere Estate
  • Brew Fiesta at The Convent Brewery
  • Summer Vibes at Cofield Wines
  • Exploration exhibition at Studio P4
  • Rutherglen Wine Bottle Community Get-together
  • Australia Day Community Awards
  • Greek BBQ at James & Co Wines
  • Federation Festival - Corowa
  • Music on the Murray at St Leonards Vineyard
• From Chiltern Visitor Information Centre
  • Live at Cornishtown Hall with Tennyson King
  • Beginner Spoon Carving Workshop with Nat Ord
  • Australia Day Community Awards
  • Paddock Posies at Indigo Rose Farm
  • Paint and Sip at the Iron Bark Tavern with Lisa Bishop
• Tourism News
  • Victorian Wine Strategy - Have your say 

News from Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre

Hello everyone, 

Last week we welcomed visitors from all over Australia as basketball families descended on the region for the Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup in Albury/Wodonga. It was wonderful to see so many parents exploring Rutherglen's delights between games and discovering local treasures.

The upcoming long weekend promises to be filled with activities, including live music performances, art exhibitions and the Australia Day community awards. Read on for further details of what's on. 

A few updates from our local businesses:

Tina and Steve from Gelatina are streamlining their operations to four days, starting this week:

• Thursday and Sunday: 11:00am - 8:00pm
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00am - 9:00pm 

The team from Pickers Cafe and Collectables will be taking a well-deserved break from Wednesday 22 January, reopening on Wednesday 5 February. 

Have a wonderful fortnight. 

Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre team

Summer Nights at Lake Moodemere Estate

Lake Moodemere Estate
12 Moodemere Road, Rutherglen
Saturday 25 January
7:00pm - 10:30pm

Experience a magical evening at Lake Moodemere Estate as The Late Wizards perform under the stars. Savour a three-course dinner prepared by the Lakeside Restaurant's expert chefs while enjoying stunning sunset views over Lake Moodemere. Carefully selected wines perfectly complement both the menu and the balmy summer evening.

Mark your calendars: Upcoming Summer Nights performances include Bangerang Music & Dance (Saturday 15 February) and Tony Gardner Jazz Band (Friday 7 March).

Brew Fiesta at The Convent Brewery

The Convent Brewery
50-74 High Street, Rutherglen
Saturday 25 January
2:00pm

Step into summer at The Convent Brewery's vibrant Brew Fiesta - a celebration where craft beer meets cool vibes. Soak up the atmosphere in the historic brewery grounds while sipping on tasty brews and frozen margaritas. Live music from Nigel and Mikkel sets the perfect soundtrack for a laid-back summer day with friends and family. 

Entry is free, but table reservations are essential for the best experience. 50% of tables are already booked, so secure your spot now! 

Summer Vibes at Cofield Wines

Cofield Wines
341 Distillery Road, Wahgunyah
Saturday 25 January 
12:00pm - 4:00pm 

Embrace the season with laid-back Summer Vibes at Cofield Wines - a celebration of music, wine, and sunshine. Spread out your picnic blanket on the lush lawns and unwind with award-winning wines and refreshing drinks. Bookings to chill out on the lawn with drinks aren't essential, but it is recommended to secure your spot and ensure the best experience.

Exploration exhibition at Studio P4

Studio P4
3 Sheridans Bridge Road, Rutherglen
Friday 24 January, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Saturday 25 January, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday 26 January, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Monday 27 January, 10:00am - 2:00pm

Local Rutherglen residents Toni Harris and Kerrie Ware present Exploration, an exhibition offering appealing, unique and affordable artworks, including photography and mixed media.

The exhibition has been extended to include the Australia Day long weekend. Cash sales only please.

Contact Kerrie Ware via email kezza22@hotmail.com to arrange an appointment outside these hours.

Rutherglen Wine Bottle Community Get-together

Rutherglen Wine Bottle
Corner of Hunter and Hopetoun Roads, Rutherglen
Saturday 25 January
5:00pm - 8:00pm

Join your Rutherglen neighbours for an evening of joy, camaraderie and summer cheer. Plus, enjoy music from local musicians who will share performances throughout the evening. 

BYO chair, nibbles and drinks. This is an outdoor gathering and will be dependent on dry weather. 

Australia Day Community Awards

Lions Park
Douglas Street, Rutherglen
Sunday 26 January
7:45am

Join the Rutherglen community for Australia Day celebrations, coordinated by the Rotary Club of Rutherglen and supported by Indigo Shire Council. The day commences with breakfast at 7:45am, followed by a flag raising ceremony, speeches and presentation of the Indigo Shire Australia Day Awards. 

The awards celebrate the contribution of individuals, community organisations and businesses in the region. These prestigious awards are designed to pay tribute to those who make extraordinary contributions to society or who are outstanding achievers in the community.

Greek BBQ by Pavlos Catering at James & Co Wines 

James & Co Wines
136 Main Street, Rutherglen
Sunday 26 January
11:00am - 6:00pm

Get ready for a mouth-watering Greek feast as Pavlos Catering fires up the BBQ at James & Co Wines. Pop in and grab some authentic Greek street food (available from 11:00am until 4:00pm, or until sold out) and stay for the chilled Sunday vibes when Liam Dalby takes the stage from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.

No need to book - just swing by the Main Street courtyard and treat yourself to the perfect combo of Greek eats, local wines, and live tunes.

Federation Festival - Corowa

RSL Park, Corowa
Saturday 25 January 
9:30pm 

The Corowa Rotary Club provides a free family friendly firework display for the community on the Australia Day Weekend each year, as a part of the Federation Festival Weekend of activities. Enjoy a picnic in the park prior to the Fireworks.

Sanger Street, Corowa
Sunday 26 January 
10:00am 

Enjoy the colour and musical extravaganza of the National Federation Festival, scheduled over the Australia Day long weekend. Visitors are treated to an array of fabulous bands, music and festival activities with markets, buskers, food and wine experiences, Federation Festival Ball, and the old fashioned grand parade along Sanger Street.

Music on the Murray at St Leonards Vineyard

St Leonards Vineyard
201 St Leonards Road, Wahgunyah
Saturday 1 February 
12:00pm - 3:00pm 

Enjoy exceptional wine and gourmet local cuisine from The Kitchen as the kids play on the sprawling grounds. This complimentary monthly event showcases the best of regional food and wine alongside live entertainment. On Saturday 1 February, Melbourne musicians Belinda and Tim will perform an eclectic mix of European folk, jazz, and world music against the backdrop of the Murray River.

Book your table now to avoid disappointment, otherwise bring your own picnic blanket for an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon on the lush green lawns.

Chiltern Visitor Information Centre Update

Hello everyone,

While the summer heat has led to a slight dip in visitor numbers this holiday period, we're already seeing strong interest in autumn activities, particularly from photography enthusiasts and birdwatching groups. A number of tour groups are planning to explore Chiltern and Mount Pilot National Park in March, making the most of our region’s exceptional natural attractions.

Although the National Trust buildings are temporarily closed, Chiltern's rich heritage remains accessible at several fascinating venues:

The Chiltern Athenaeum's John McEwen annexe welcomes family researchers every Wednesday (10:00am - 3:00pm) throughout summer. For research, space bookings and guided walking tours, contact info@chilternathenaeum.com.au 

The historic Chiltern Courthouse offers informative talks and tours for just $2 per person - contact Lois Hotson on 0457 262 358 to arrange your visit.

Step back in time at the Chiltern Historic Goods Shed, featuring historic crafts and train layouts. Open weekends 10:00am - 3:00pm, entry $5 (under 12s free). For tours, contact Keith Grigsby on 0477 051 834.

The Chiltern Motor Museum on Chiltern-Barnawartha Road showcases an impressive collection of vintage oil engines, tractors, and farm machinery. Bookings available on 0437 064 994.

Don’t forget – our team is here to assist you to create or renew your Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) website business listing. Once again, Council is subsidising the cost of renewal for your ATDW business listing, normally $295. To receive your promo code or if you need any help, please contact the Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre on 02 6033 6306.

Have a fantastic fortnight.

Chiltern Visitor Information Centre Team

Live at Cornishtown Hall with Tennyson King

Cornishtown Hall
Hall Road, Chiltern
Saturday 25 January 
6:00pm - 10:00pm

As part of the focus on original songwriting and storytelling, Arts Rutherglen in conjunction with Indigo FM and Destination Rutherglen, presents Canadian singer-songwriter Tennyson King live at Cornishtown Hall. Tennyson will be supported by opening act Kamali Lamba, a captivating and original singer and guitarist. 

Tennyson King is a nomadic indie-folk musician from Hong Kong and Canada. His 2022 album Good Company has been featured on many radio networks across North America, Asia and Australia. Two years ago, Tennyson’s Wahgunyah show received rave reviews!

Beginner Spoon Carving Workshop

Nat Ord Studio
53 Conness Street, Chiltern
Saturday 25 January 
10:00am - 4:00pm

Discover the timeless craft of spoon carving in this beginners workshop with local artist Nat Ord. This hands-on day will guide you through the traditional techniques of greenwood carving, where you'll transform a raw blank into your own unique cooking spoon.

Perfect for beginners, the workshop covers essential carving skills and safety techniques, with all tools and materials provided alongside morning tea. Create something both beautiful and functional to treasure in your kitchen for years to come. Book quickly - there is just one spot remaining for this workshop. 

Australia Day Community Awards

Martin Park
Main Street Chiltern
Sunday 26 January
9:45am - 12:00pm

Celebrate Australia Day with the Chiltern community at a welcoming gathering hosted by the Black Dog Creek Fishing Club. The festivities begin at 9:45am with a community morning tea and BBQ at Martin Park on Main Street. Enjoy local entertainment before the presentation of the Indigo Shire Australia Day Awards. 

The awards celebrate the contribution of individuals, community organisations and businesses in the region. These prestigious awards are designed to pay tribute to those who make extraordinary contributions to society or who are outstanding achievers in the community.

Paddock Posies at Indigo Rose Farm

Indigo Rose Farm
74 Old Howlong Road, Cornishtown
Saturday 15 February
8:30am - 10:00am 

Visit Indigo Rose Farm to share in the seasonal abundance of their gorgeous fragrant roses and supporting flowers. Pick your own vase full of organically grown flowers to take home, while enjoying the beautiful location, wandering the garden, soaking in the bird song and buzz of the bees as they pollinate each flower.

A reusable glass vase is provided for you to pick your flowers into and take home to enjoy. Aprons, gloves and secateurs are supplied for use on the day. This is a ticketed experience, only ticket holders may enter the farm, tickets sales are limited to 10 or less per session. This experience is for ages 12 years and above.

Paint and Sip with Lisa Bishop

Iron Bark Tavern
41-43 Conness Street, Chiltern
Sunday 16 February
11:00am - 1:00pm

Get creative at the Iron Bark Tavern with local artist Lisa Bishop. Known for her vibrant, cheerful artwork, Lisa will guide you through a delightful painting session while you enjoy great wine and delicious nibbles. 

Secure your spot for this unique experience at $95 per person, which includes art supplies, wine and nibbles. Bookings are essential and close on Monday 10 February. Don't miss out – call the Iron Bark Tavern on (03) 5726 1099 to reserve your place.

Tourism News

Victorian Wine Strategy - Have your say

The Victorian Government and the Victorian wine industry are co-designing the new Victorian Wine Strategy, and are seeking public consultation from all wine industry stakeholders to ensure the comprehensive strategy strengthens the wine sector, creates jobs and drives economic growth.

The survey closes on 31 January 2025.