When was the last time you packed a picnic and planned a day out? You may be surprised by how many fun locales are within a short drive from Echuca Moama and here’s five reasons to take a short drive to visit Rochester!
Rochester, Victoria, is nestled on the banks of the meandering Campaspe River and is the gateway to the mighty Murray River region. The natural beauty intersected by water is enhanced by Rochester’s well-maintained parks and landscaping providing the perfect atmosphere to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
1. The old Rochy Silo’s have been brought back to life through colour
You won’t miss the iconic Graincorp Silo in the heart of town. Don’t just drive past you need to get up close to admire the spectacular design by renowned Melbourne artist Jimmy Dvate featuring locally found threatened species the Squirrel Glider and Azure Kingfisher against a backdrop of the Campaspe River and the iconic red brick bridge.
2. Take a Walk and drop in a line
The Campaspe River is the town’s defining natural feature. Surrounded by river red gums, the banks and billabongs are still dotted with the fire mounds of local Aboriginal people. Kookaburras and kingfishers swoop among the trees, while wrens and wagtails dart about the understory. Dust off your rods and find a spot along the 160km stretch of the river, throw in a line and you might be lucky enough to pull out a Carp or a Redfin, Silver or Golden Perch. A 3 kilometre signposted walk gives an insight into both the European and Indigenous histories of the area. The Historical Plaque Trail leads you to the 15 points of Rochester’s historical significance.
3. Discover History
You may need to set your GPS. Start from the corner of Moore and Gillies St at the impressive Shamrock Hotel. The original building was built in 1871. Next stop, take a look St Joseph’s church in Fraser Street and the Presbyterian Church in Victoria Street. The Shire Hall is well worth seeing built in 1892 and still standing on the corner of Gillies & Mackay Streets.
4. Visit an icon
World champion cyclist Sir Hubert Opperman was born in Rochester in 1904. He is best known for winning the grueling road race, 1265km Paris Brest Paris in 1931. Find out more about the man visit the Oppy museum is located at the Rochester Library and Community Hub, in Mackay St and is opened Monday to Friday 9am until 4pm or by appointment.
5. Marvel at the painted Murals
Eight artists painted to the theme of ‘Nature , Her Beauty and Bounty’ it all began in 2014 and can been seen in Moore Street.
A great place to stop for a beverage and a sweet treat is Kits café in Moore Street. Call in a meet the locals operating the Rochy Wine Tavern the wine section is tempting and the building is magnificent.
Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Rochy Market, open the 4th Saturday of every month.
IMAGE CREDIT: SHIRE OF CAMPASPE
