The towns of Nyah and Nyah West, around 20 minutes north of Swan Hill, are the gateway to some magnificent natural riverside bush.
The popular Nyah Recreation Reserve is a free, spacious, shady camping ground perfect for the caravan. What it lacks in creature comforts is more than made up for in un-spoilt riverfront views, fishing, birdlife and pleasant walks.
The more adventurous can head out in the 4WD or pack a tent to claim your private spot along 7km of rugged riverfront in the nearby Nyah-Vinifera Park. The Nyah-Vinifera Park covers an area of 1,000 hectares of pristine nature including century old red gums, beautiful billabongs and lagoons, all alongside the banks of the Murray River. Just the ticket for a bit of well-earned rest and relaxation.
Day-trippers can make the most of this un-spoilt slice of Aussie bush too, with walking and cycling tracks criss-crossing the area, inviting a day of exploration and relaxation. As you move through the area, keep an eye out for signs of the long history of Aboriginal communities (the Wadi Wadi people) in this region, including canoe trees and middens.
The small towns of Nyah (nearer the Murray River on the highway) and the slightly larger Nyah West (on the train line) support the region’s agricultural businesses, including fresh fruit and vegetables, wool and wine. The main street of Nyah West is a snapshot of early and mid-20th century architecture, with single-story facades framing the everyday businesses of the town. Snap a photo of the Kookaburra and Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo art murals by local artist Paul Oswin. In the park, you will find unique artistic sculpture created by using old scrap wire. While in Nyah along the river, there are the painted Bollards. These represent a wood pile cutter, the first female riverboat captain, a female Aboriginal shearer, a blacksmith and an orchardist.
Look out for Dollton Abbey in Nyah West – a Doll Museum with more than 2000 preloved and new dolls collected over 25 years by a local resident. While in Nyah there is the Ron Dehne Ford Tractor Collection. Australia’s largest privately owned Ford tractor collection.
Pack your clubs and play 18 holes at the Nyah West Golf Club or try your hand at Disc Golf. You might even spot a kangaroo or five!
It’s all a far cry from the 1890s when the area was first established as a socialist utopia! After your round, stop in for a meal and chat with the friendly locals at the Nyah West pub.