Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s Goulburn Valley, Shepparton is a vibrant regional city known for its rich agricultural heritage, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a local exploring your backyard or a visitor discovering the region for the first time, Shepparton offers an array of attractions that cater to all interests. In this guide, we will delve into the must-visit attractions that make Shepparton a destination worth exploring.
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Shepparton Art Museum (SAM)
The Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is a cultural gem in the region, known for its extensive collection of Australian and international art. The museum’s new building, which opened in late 2021, is an architectural marvel and a hub for contemporary and traditional art.
Highlights
- Permanent Collection: SAM houses an impressive array of ceramics, paintings, and Indigenous art. Notable works include those by Sidney Nolan, Arthur Boyd, and Margaret Preston.
- Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary artists and new works.
- Workshops and Programs: SAM offers a range of workshops and educational programs for all ages, making it an engaging place for families and art enthusiasts.
Tips for Visiting
- Admission: Entry to the permanent collection is free, while special exhibitions may have an entry fee.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and the museum’s history.
- Cafe and Gift Shop: Enjoy a coffee at the museum’s café and browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and art-related items.
Victoria Park Lake
Victoria Park Lake is a picturesque spot in the heart of Shepparton, offering a tranquil escape and a range of recreational activities. The lake is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, walking tracks, and picnic areas.
Highlights
- Walking and Cycling Tracks: The lake features a 3.5-kilometer walking and cycling track that is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride.
- Boating and Fishing: The lake is popular for boating and fishing, with facilities available for both activities.
- Playgrounds and BBQ Areas: Families will appreciate the well-equipped playgrounds and BBQ areas, ideal for a fun day out.
Tips for Visiting
- Events and Festivals: Victoria Park Lake often hosts local events and festivals. Check the local event calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including birds and turtles, which are frequently seen around the lake.
Moooving Art
Moooving Art is a unique public art project that features life-sized fiberglass cows decorated by local artists. These colorful and whimsical sculptures are scattered throughout Greater Shepparton, making for an entertaining and interactive art trail.
Highlights
- Art Trail: Follow the Moooving Art trail to discover the various cow sculptures placed in parks, gardens, and public spaces.
- Thematic Designs: Each cow is decorated with a unique theme, often reflecting local culture, history, or current events.
- Photo Opportunities: The vibrant and imaginative designs make for great photo opportunities and are fun for visitors of all ages.
Tips for Visiting
- Trail Map: Pick up a Moooving Art trail map from the local visitor center or download it online to guide your exploration.
- Seasonal Changes: The cows are periodically relocated and repainted, so even if you’ve visited before, there’s always something new to see.
Shepparton Heritage Centre
The Shepparton Heritage Centre is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Shepparton and the surrounding region. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with a wide range of exhibits and artifacts.
Highlights
- Historical Exhibits: Explore exhibits that detail the history of the Goulburn Valley, including indigenous heritage, early European settlement, and agricultural development.
- Photographic Collections: The center has an extensive collection of historical photographs that provide a visual history of the area.
- Interactive Displays: Engaging displays and interactive exhibits make the heritage center an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Tips for Visiting
- Opening Hours: Check the opening hours before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.
- Special Events: The heritage center occasionally hosts special events and exhibitions, so look out for these when planning your visit.
KidsTown Adventure Playground
KidsTown Adventure Playground is one of Australia’s largest adventure playgrounds, offering an exciting and safe environment for children to play and explore. Located between Shepparton and Mooroopna, it’s a must-visit for families.
Highlights
- Play Equipment: The playground features an array of play equipment, including giant slides, swings, sandpits, and climbing structures.
- Miniature Railway: Kids can enjoy rides on the miniature railway, which runs on weekends and during school holidays.
- Picnic Areas: With plenty of shaded picnic areas and BBQ facilities, KidsTown is perfect for a family day out.
Tips for Visiting
- Entry Fees: Entry to the playground is free, but donations are encouraged to help with maintenance and improvements.
- Special Programs: Check the schedule for special programs and events that may be running during your visit.
Shepparton Motor Museum and Collectibles
The Shepparton Motor Museum and Collectibles is a haven for car enthusiasts and history buffs. The museum showcases a diverse collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and memorabilia.
Highlights
- Vintage Cars and Motorcycles: Explore a wide range of beautifully restored vehicles from different eras.
- Themed Exhibitions: The museum regularly updates its displays with themed exhibitions, focusing on specific brands, types of vehicles, or historical periods.
- Collectibles: In addition to vehicles, the museum houses an extensive collection of automotive memorabilia, including petrol pumps, signs, and models.
Tips for Visiting
- Guided Tours: Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and stories behind the vehicles on display.
- Gift Shop: Visit the museum’s gift shop for unique automotive-themed souvenirs and gifts.
Aquamoves
Aquamoves is Shepparton’s premier aquatic and leisure center, offering a variety of facilities for fitness, relaxation, and family fun. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to stay active or unwind.
Highlights
- Indoor and Outdoor Pools: The center features multiple pools, including a 25-meter indoor pool, a leisure pool with a water slide, and an outdoor splash park.
- Gym and Fitness Classes: Aquamoves has a well-equipped gym and offers a range of fitness classes, from yoga to high-intensity interval training.
- Spa and Sauna: Relax in the spa and sauna facilities, perfect for unwinding after a workout or swim.
Tips for Visiting
- Family Passes: Look out for family passes or multi-visit options to save money if you plan on visiting multiple times.
- Program Schedules: Check the schedule for fitness classes and special programs to make the most of your visit.
Emerald Bank Leisure Land
Emerald Bank Leisure Land is a multi-faceted attraction offering a mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Located just a short drive from Shepparton, it’s a great destination for a day trip.
Highlights
- Shepparton Miniature Railway: Enjoy a ride on the miniature railway, which winds through scenic landscapes.
- Riverside Gardens: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
- Fun Park: The fun park offers activities like mini-golf, pedal boats, and a playground for children.
Tips for Visiting
- Opening Times: Check the opening times for each attraction within Emerald Bank, as they can vary.
- Picnic Spots: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the lush gardens or make use of the on-site café for refreshments.
SPC Factory Sales
SPC Factory Sales is a must-visit for anyone interested in sampling and purchasing locally produced goods. As one of Australia’s largest fruit and vegetable processors, SPC offers a range of products at factory prices.
Highlights
- Factory Outlet: Shop for a variety of canned fruits, vegetables, and other products at discounted prices.
- Tastings: Enjoy tastings of some of SPC’s popular products and discover new favorites.
- Local Produce: In addition to SPC products, the store often features other local goods, such as jams, sauces, and snacks.
Tips for Visiting
- Bulk Buying: Take advantage of bulk buying options for even greater savings.
- Seasonal Specials: Look out for seasonal specials and promotions to get the best deals.
Gemmill Swamp Wildlife Reserve
Gemmill Swamp Wildlife Reserve is a natural oasis located just south of Shepparton. The reserve is a haven for wildlife and offers visitors a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Highlights
- Birdwatching: The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
- Walking Trails: Explore the network of walking trails that wind through the reserve, offering views of wetlands and native vegetation.
- Wildlife Viewing: In addition to birds, the reserve is home to kangaroos, wallabies, and other native animals.
Tips for Visiting
- Binoculars: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting wildlife from a distance.
- Quiet Observation: Move quietly and respectfully through the reserve to increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
Shepparton’s diverse array of attractions ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re interested in art and history, outdoor activities, family-friendly fun, or simply relaxing in nature. By exploring these must-visit attractions, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Shepparton’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and community spirit.
