Narrandera, Barellan, Grong Grong and Surrounds

Water towers, wildlife and country town charm.

You’ll be drawn to Narrandera and the surrounding towns for its closeness to the mighty Murrumbidgee and its abundance of family-friendly fun. If seeing a koala in the wild, visiting the hometown of an Australian tennis legend or racing your mates on incredible waterslides sounds like a good time, you’ll want to allow a day or two to explore.

First up, a visit to the Narrandera Destination and Discovery Hub. Here you’ll find travel advice from friendly locals and maps, along with immersive experiences and Narrandera’s Big Guitar – a supersized, yet playable instrument (you’ll probably need two hands to play this behemoth). Make sure to grab a selfie so everyone back home will believe you!

Visit the Narrandera Tourism website >

Narrandera

Set beside the Murrumbidgee River, at the intersection of the Sturt and Newell highways, Narrandera might be a popular rest stop for travellers but it’s also worthy of further exploration over a day or two. The town blends elegance, environment and history, bringing you an oasis of tree lined streets, shady gardens and historical buildings. See koalas in the wild and walk or ride through the scenic landscape near the river and Lake Talbot. The Narrandera Flora and Fauna Reserve and Narrandera Wetlands are both great places to start. Don’t miss the Big Playable Guitar, a peek at the wreck of PS Wagga Wagga if the river level allows, or the chance to slide into summer fun at Lake Talbot Water Park.

Barellan

The small community of Barellan is home to one big attraction sure to capture your attention. You can put that map down because you won’t need it to find the Big Tennis Racquet. It’s easy to spot from anywhere in town and a tribute to tennis great Evonne Goolagong-Cawley who grew up and learned to play tennis here. You can even see the wall she used for practice. Stop by the Barellan Museum and the CWA Rest House as you embrace the community spirit and soak in the laidback country village vibe.

Grong Grong

Grong Grong’s 24-hour rest stop is well-equipped for travellers with BBQs, showers and a playground. You’ll probably hear how good it is from others on the road too. Once in town, head straight for the free bike hire and take to the cycle trails. Or if you’re travelling with kids, the call of the natural playscapes, mud pie station and cubby at the unique Grong Grong Earth Park is hard to ignore. From here you can easily visit nearby Berembed Weir on the Murrumbidgee River, a peaceful fishing spot for shore-based anglers eager to wet a line.

Binya

With a population reaching just over 200 people, Binya is a friendly farming community a 30-minute drive north of Leeton. Drop into the Binya Post Office and grab yourself a copy of the Binya Cook Book, or plan a visit in November for the annual arts and crafts festival.

Time your visit with these events!

Don’t miss our region’s unique festivals, markets and shows

Be sure to check the Narrandera Tourism website for the latest event updates when you visit as dates can change and new events are often popping up along the Murrumbidgee Trails.

Narrandera Rod Run

You don’t need to be a rev-head to enjoy this event, the Narrandera Rod Run is family-friendly and welcoming to all horsepower-lovers.

Held over the Easter long weekend, you can watch beautiful, restored hot rods cruise the main street on Saturday night or come along to the
Show n’ Shine on Sunday for a closer look.

Barellan Clydesdale and Heavy Horses ‘Good Old Days’ Festival

The traditional ways of living and working on the land come to life on the October long weekend. Marvel at the sight of two dozen Clydesdales in harness pulling a wagon, try your hand at early farming skills and take in the vintage farm machinery displays.