Summer on the Murrumbidgee ☀️
Get ready for an unforgettable summer! The Murrumbidgee Trails region is heating up with festive cheer, thrilling rodeos, blockbuster movies, and countless ways to cool off. From vibrant events to peaceful riverside escapes, your ultimate summer adventure starts here.
Lights, Carols, and Holiday Magic
Start the season with Christmas lights, carols, and community spirit across the region.
4 Dec • Light Up Barellan • Carols, a free sausage sizzle, and a warm community atmosphere.
5 Dec • Light Up Lockhart • Join the Lockhart Lions Club as they light up Lockhart's Hodgson Park for a magical evening of joy, connection, and festive cheer.
7 Dec • Light Up Leeton Christmas Carnival • Concert, rides, food, and the first glimpse of Santa!
14 Dec • Carols in the Park • Pack your picnic blanket for a Christmas concert in Marie Bashir Park, featuring performances by One Voice Riverina and the Narrandera Community Band.
Pool Highlights
Beat the summer heat with a splash! Our region's pools offer everything from thermal warmth to thrilling waterslides. Head to Lake Talbot Water Park and spend a day racing down the slides, playing in the splash park, and enjoying a beautiful picnic BBQ. Nearby, the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre features waterslides, a learn to swim area, and heated pools. This summer, enjoy free entry at the Murrumbidgee Council Pools in Jerilderie, Coleambally, and Darlington Point. Keep an eye on local pages for dates when the popular Aqua Inflatable Fun will be running. Meanwhile, the Lockhart Swimming Complex offers a three thermally heated pools, complete with playground, canteen, and BBQ facilities. Over at The Rock War Memorial Swimming Complex, you’ll find a 25-metre outdoor pool, an undercover baby pool, and accessible amenities.
Movies & Music
SA blockbuster summer awaits in Leeton at the Roxy Community Theatre! Starting Boxing Day, catch the latest new-release films right in the heart of Leeton, perfect for holiday outings, family fun, and beating the summer heat with popcorn in hand. On February 15, dust off your go-go boots and step back in time for an unforgettable night of ABBA magic with Björn Again. The world’s No. 1, and only ABBA-endorsed, tribute show is bringing their glittering ABBA Forever Tour to The Roxy.
Later in the month, join nationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Tom Curtain for his Here’s to You Tour in The Rock on February 20, where he brings his award-winning Katherine Outback Experience and live music show featuring Laura Frank, Chris Matthews, and Melanie Gray.
Action & Outdoors
Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping action this summer, starting with water sports on January 31 when The Malibu Series, Australia’s premier 3 event waterski tournament, comes to Narrandera to celebrate skiers of all abilities in a fun and challenging competition. On February 8, The Rock Triathlon returns to Victoria Park, offering events for all ages and fitness levels, including sprint, enticer, walkathon, junior, and sub-junior races (teams are welcome!). Finally, saddle-up for an unforgettable show at the Narrandera Rodeo on February 28, one of NSW’s longest-running professional rodeos, where you can experience the thrills and spills of roughriders, buckjumpers, and bull riders in the cool of the evening.
River Escapes
As always, the heart of the Trails is the mighty Murrumbidgee River. Trade your swag for comfort at the Darlington Point Riverside Caravan & Tourist Park, which has just launched five new river-view cabins, including one that is fully accessible. Overlooking a peaceful bend of the Murrumbidgee River, it’s the perfect base for fishing, BBQs, and family getaways. On Australia Day, head to Narrandera for stand-up paddle boarding and a sunset kayak tour (bookings essential).
Planning a trip to our beautiful National Parks? Enhance your experience and stay safe by downloading the NSW National Parks app for maps and information, and the Emergency Plus app before travelling.
Local Gems
Escape the heat with a stop at Boutique on Green, a stylish destination offering a curated selection of clothing, unique gifts, and homewares. Alternatively, dive into local history at the Greens Gunyah Museum, located on Lockhart’s main street. Here, you can explore local artefacts, view the historic 1888 Shearer’s Strike collection, and admire the beautiful art in the Doris Golder Wool Art Gallery. Be sure to check out the new Women in Wool exhibits, which celebrate the local women who shapes our local wool story.
Step into the past and uncover a treasure trove of local history at Parkside Cottage Museum, Narrandera. Home to the Scarlet Cloak made from the first bale of wool sent to England by the Macarthur family in 1816, and Dr. H.O. Lethbridge’s private collection. It’s newly renovated and open weekends and ready for history buffs and curious minds.
Finally, don’t forget to look up every Saturday! The Rock Regional Observatory hosts a free Saturday Skywatch event every Saturday, open to all ages. Explore the night sky and learn about stars, planets, and constellations.
See You on the Trails!
Summer in the Murrumbidgee Trails region is all about sunshine, good times, and that unmistakeable feeling of freedom. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure, a peaceful moment by the river, or just a cool fun escape with the family, our towns and trails are ready to welcome you. Get ready to create lasting memories under clear summer skies.