NSW Top Tourism Town Finalist
Welcome to Moama
Top Town: population over 5,000 residents
09:00 Weds 13 April - till - 17:00 Weds 27 April.
Members of the public may lodge only one vote for one town in each category. See Terms & Conditions.
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River, Echuca Moama offers a tale of two cities.
The twin towns of Echuca Moama are the closest point of the Murray to Melbourne, an easy two-and-a-half-hour drive. It’s an ever-popular destination for families drawn to the history and comfort of the area, and to couples of all ages looking for nature-filled daytime experiences and top-quality dining and nightlife options when the sun goes down.
Echuca Moama itself offers a tale of two cities: One of good old-fashioned country hospitality born out of a rich agricultural and river-trade heritage, and another of modern-day sophistication, built on a growing demand for world-class wine, dining, nature-tourism and entertainment experiences.
Nestled on the banks of the Murray River and set against a backdrop of natural bushland, these border towns exude a raw, timeless and authentic beauty.
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Moama’s European history dates back to the mid-1840s. The area became a popular stopping point for farmers and traders wanting to cross the river by punt. A hotel soon followed, and by 1851 the town was established.
Meanwhile, a rival punt was operating from the Victorian side of the river, at the nearby junction of the Murray and Campaspe rivers. A township grew, originally called Hopwood's Ferry in 1854 and renamed Echuca a year later.
History comes alive on the river: A visit to these towns wouldn’t be complete without a walk along Echuca’s historic wharf area, a visit to the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, and a trip on a paddlesteamer. Echuca Moama is known as the paddlesteamer capital of the world. The region is home to the world's largest fleet of paddlesteamers and the world’s oldest operating wooden-hull paddlesteamer, the PS Adelaide.
Just follow the distinctive sound of the boats’ whistles: multiple cruises run throughout the day. Visitors of all ages enjoy the simple pleasure of a cruisy afternoon, enjoying the natural beauty of the river environment.
In addition to the port area, Echuca Moama retains some impressive historical buildings including Moama’s Court House and the abandoned Moama Wharf and historic precinct on Hunt Street. In Echuca, registered historic buildings include the Court House, Town Hall and Customs House.
Our region has a diverse population, reflected in the range of unique shops and other attractions.
Rev-heads and history buff alike will love the Holden Museum, while the Aussie Beer Shed is as fun as it sounds.
Families and romantics can dream of the past on the horse-and-cart rides through the Port of Echuca offered by the Billabong Ranch.
Down to earth… In the language of the Yorta Yorta people – the traditional owners of this area – ‘Echuca’ means ‘meeting of the waters’, and the twin towns’ location near the junction of the Goulburn, Campaspe, and Murray Rivers, makes it a perfect launching pad for exploring the region’s stunning waterways and natural environment.
Echuca Moama's backyard opens onto a natural landscape of magnificent river redgums, breathtaking river panoramas and an astonishing array of native wildlife. Moama's bushland offers a wide variety of walking and cycling trails, winding along the banks of the Murray and through productive ecosystems – perfect for those wanting to reconnect with nature.
Want to know a local secret for starting your day the best way? A sunrise Stand Up Paddle Board tour. Hire a board and take a tour where you'll pass through picturesque bushland, under the historic Moama Bridge and through to the Port of Echuca. This is undoubtedly one of the best ways to view the iconic Echuca wharf. There are also barbecue pontoon boats for hire; a fun and easy way to enjoy the river on a long, warm afternoon with friends and family.
…and a little bit fancy. The twin towns’ newly emerging culinary scene is also not to be missed. Visitors will discover a stunning landscape of boutique vineyards and artisan producers all bursting to welcome you in for a taste. In the heart of Moama you'll find the Perricoota region, one of Australia's newest and most exciting wine regions, specialising in delicate, crisp, dry whites, full bodied reds and all styles in between. A lunch on the deck at Morrison’s Winery overlooking the river is a leisurely way to sample food and wines from the area.
Local farmers’ markets are another great place to find seasonal fare and homemade goods. Meet the local growers and stock your basket with fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, local meats, olive oil and honey. Later, head into one of the standout restaurants in Echuca for a world-class celebration of local produce in a sophisticated setting.
Echuca Moama is a destination like no other. A place to bask in glorious sunshine, experience the very best that life has to offer, and to reconnect with yourself, your family and your friends.
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Four days in MOAMA
A place to bask in glorious, glorious sunshine, to experience the very best life has to offer, and to reconnect with yourself, your family and your friends.
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and set against a backdrop of idyllic natural bushland, the border towns of Echuca Moama exude a raw, timeless and authentic beauty that is unrivalled in Australia.
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