Dimboola: Discover Museums, the River and Nature

Dimboola brings together local history, a strong connection to the river and outdoor trails. During your stay, you can choose from museums and historic exhibitions, walking trails and activities on the water. The aspects you choose to focus on will give your travel plans their own rhythm.

Culture, History and Collections

The Dimboola Imaginarium is housed in the historic former National Bank of Australasia building. Its collection includes art, curiosities, collectibles, toys, books, plants and unique gifts. This eclectic mix makes it a cultural destination in its own right.

The Dimboola Printing Museum displays a collection of old printing presses from across Australia. The exhibits include the original presses, all of which are still in working order. The Old Courthouse on Lloyd Street houses the main archive and exhibition venue of the Dimboola and District Historical Society. In the courtroom, exhibition topics range from local Koori and Chinese cultures to the Boer War, the First and Second World Wars, agriculture, law, railways and clothing. The displays may change.

Another cultural stop is Nolan Studio. A permanent exhibition is housed in the garage, or studio, where Sidney Nolan painted. As current visiting arrangements are not confirmed, it is advisable to check them in advance.

River, Trails and Excursions

The Wimmera River is also part of the area’s history: the stretch downstream of Polkemmet Bridge, which runs through Dimboola and the district, is part of the river that received Heritage status under the Heritage Rivers Act in 1992. If you’d like to explore the town on foot, there are two different options. The Wimmera River Discovery Trail starts at a trailhead behind Dimboola Library. The Nine Creeks Walking and Bicycle Tracks comprise four kilometres of walking paths suitable for different abilities. They include a boardwalk crossing over the river and pedestrian bridges. Information signs explain the area’s historic significance and its long-standing use by Indigenous, Chinese and European communities. As trail conditions can change, it’s best to check them before setting out.

A trip to the surrounding area takes you to Pink Lake, six kilometres northwest of Dimboola on the Western Highway. A short path leads from the car park to the lake shore. This makes it easy to combine a stop at the lake with a short walk, without turning it into a longer hike.

At Horseshoe Bend Campground and Picnic Area, you can swim or kayak. The site is an eight-minute drive from Dimboola. Check parking conditions and access before you set off. Dimboola Recreation Reserve has facilities for swimming, rowing, fishing and canoeing; the availability of individual activities may vary.

Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests

If you’re looking for a hotel in Dimboola, what you plan to focus on can help you decide: museums and archive collections make for a different day out than river trails or water activities. First, consider which experiences you want to shape your stay, and take the relevant visiting arrangements into account.

Discover more destinations: Nicholson, Newry, Aireys Inlet, Heathcote, Dixons Creek, Rochford, Dalyston, Cobram.

View the wider travel guide: Victoria.