Straddling the mighty Murray River on the Victoria–New South Wales border, Koondrook and Barham NSW are charming country towns that share more than just a historic lift-span bridge. With one foot in each state, these twin towns offer travellers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, local art, and riverside relaxation.
We spent a day exploring both sides of the river and were delighted by what we found. There are peaceful walking trails shaded by towering red gums, artisan food and wine, and beautifully carved sculptures. Whether fishing by the river, cycling through Gunbower Forest, or enjoying a classic country pub meal, Koondrook and Barham make the perfect stop on any Murray River road trip.
Here’s how to spend a relaxing and rewarding day in Koondrook. Where to eat and what to see, to the best places to stay by the river.
A Day In Koondrook: Discovering A Hidden Riverside Gem On The Murray
Tucked away on the banks of the mighty Murray River, Koondrook is one of those small towns that surprises you. It might not be a name that springs to mind when planning a Murray River road trip. But after spending a day here, I can confidently say it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
Koondrook has a peaceful riverside charm, rich heritage, and enough things to do to fill a relaxed day (or two). If you’re passing through or want to escape the crowds, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Koondrook.
Morning: Riverside Walks And Red Gum Sculptures
Koondrook Wharf, recently restored, gives a nod to the town’s river trade past. From here, we followed the Red Gum Statue Walk. A scenic trail that hugs the riverbank and showcases beautiful chainsaw-carved sculptures made from local red gum. Each carving tells a story about the region’s wildlife, Indigenous culture, and pioneering history.
We took our time, reading the plaques and admiring the craftsmanship. Along the way, we spotted pelicans gliding gracefully over the river, and the reflections on the water were picture-perfect.
Along the walk you will pass by the Redgum Saw Mill. We were there on a Sunday and it was closed. But talking to other tourists said that during the week you can get a guided tour and learn more about the Saw Mill.
Explore Nature And History
Gunbower Creek, part of the internationally recognised Gunbower Forest, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. This Ramsar-listed wetland is home to native species, including kingfishers, ibis, and even the elusive Murray cod.
Continuing on, you will come across a bridge that crosses to Gunbower Island. Access is by walking across, but you need to be careful as there may be loose boards. If you have bikes (or hire one locally), there are fantastic cycling trails through the forest. For those on foot, there are shorter bushwalks, peaceful picnic spots, and lookout areas where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of this stretch of the Murray.
Gunbower Island: Quick Facts
- Australia’s Largest Inland Island
Gunbower Island is the largest inland island in Australia. It’s formed between the Murray River and Gunbower Creek, covering around 26,400 hectares of floodplain forest. - Part of a Ramsar-listed Wetland
The island is part of the Gunbower Forest Ramsar site, recognised internationally for its importance as a wetland habitat, especially for waterbirds and native fish. - Home to Rich River Red Gum Forests
Gunbower Island is covered in magnificent River Red Gum and Black Box forests, offering an iconic outback Australian landscape teeming with biodiversity. - A Haven for Birdlife and Wildlife
The island is a haven for wildlife lovers, with over 200 species of birds, including brolgas, spoonbills, whistling kites, and kingfishers, as well as kangaroos, emus, and echidnas. - Great for Outdoor Adventures
Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, bushwalking, canoeing, and 4WD tracks throughout the island. The Gunbower Canoe Trail is a highlight, with interpretive signs along a marked water route. - Cultural Significance to Indigenous People
The island lies on the traditional lands of the Yorta Yorta people, who have deep cultural and spiritual connections to the land. Ancient canoe trees, scar trees, and middens can still be seen in the area. - Accessible from Koondrook
Gunbower Island is easily accessed from Koondrook, making it a perfect day trip or nature retreat for those visiting the twin towns of Koondrook and Barham. - Important for Conservation
The island plays a crucial role in conserving wetland habitats, especially during environmental watering events, which help maintain the ecological health of the floodplain forests. - Fishing Paradise
Anglers are drawn to Gunbower Island for its abundance of Murray cod, yellowbelly (golden perch), and redfin, especially in Gunbower Creek and along the Murray River. - Popular with Nature Lovers and Campers
With its peaceful bush settings, free camping areas, and unique landscape, Gunbower Island is a favourite for campers looking to disconnect and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Lunch: Dining At Koondrook
By lunchtime, we were ready for something satisfying—and the Long Paddock Food Store did not disappoint. Near the river, this charming café is known for its hearty seasonal menu, locally sourced ingredients, and excellent coffee. I ordered the Egg and Bacon Roll, and Leo had Sunrise Eggs. We both enjoyed our meals in a warm area. There is also space to eat outside, but as it was cold, everyone chose to eat inside.
There are great places to stay if you want to extend your visit. Koondrook Retreat offers glamping tents right on the riverbank—ideal for a peaceful night under the stars. There is also a caravan park. The old bakery has been converted into accommodation and is located towards the river from The Long Paddock.
Continue walking towards the river, and you will find a children’s playground. There are toilets there as well as BBQs and picnic areas. Across the road is Apex Park where there carved statues and information about the Paddle Steamers and Barges that where built in Koondrook.
Koondrook – Kerang Tram
The Koondrook–Kerang Tramway, inaugurated on 19 July 1889, was a privately operated broad-gauge railway spanning approximately 22.4 kilometers (13.94 miles) between the Murray River town of Koondrook and Kerang in northern Victoria. Constructed under the Tramways in Country Districts Act 1886, it was among the first tramways built by local governments with financial assistance from the Victorian government. Initially managed by the Shire of Swan Hill, and later by the Shire of Kerang, the tramway played a pivotal role in transporting timber and agricultural produce, bolstering the region’s economy.
In 1952, ownership transferred to Victorian Railways, which continued operations until passenger services ceased in 1976, followed by the line’s official closure on 3 March 1981.
Today, remnants of this historic line, including a replica of the original Sentinel steam locomotive, are preserved in Koondrook, serving as a testament to the area’s rich transportation heritage. The tram and station platform are located across the road from the Long Paddock with the General Store on the other side of the divided road.
Final Thoughts: Why Visit Koondrook
Koondrook might be a small town, but it offers a truly authentic Murray River experience. Whether you’re into nature, history, food, or simply slowing down, this riverside retreat has something to offer. Pair it with nearby Barham across the bridge for even more to explore.
Bridge Across The Murray River To Barham
The Barham–Koondrook Bridge, spanning the Murray River between Barham, New South Wales, and Koondrook, Victoria, is a significant heritage-listed structure. Opened in 1904, it was designed by Ernest de Burgh of the NSW Department of Public Works and constructed by Monash & Anderson, with Sir John Monash as the Engineer for building the bridge. This bridge replaced a punt that previously ferried people, livestock, and goods across the river, facilitating direct road access between the Riverina and Victorian markets.
Its central lift span, originally operated manually by two men turning wheels, allowed paddle steamers to pass beneath and was motorised in 1997. The bridge remains one of the oldest surviving lift-span bridges over the Murray River and continues to serve as a vital link between the twin towns, reflecting the region’s historical and engineering heritage.
The Bridge is single-lane, so you need to give way to traffic coming towards you and arrived at the crossing first.
A Day In Barham: Riverside Relaxation, Country Charm
Just across the bridge from Koondrook, we found ourselves in the welcoming town of Barham, New South Wales—a place where the pace is slower, the river is central to life, and the people are genuinely friendly. Whether you’re following the Murray River trail, exploring the region’s red gum country, or just after a quiet retreat, Barham is one of those towns that wraps you in its laid-back charm.
Our Stay: BIG4 Barham Holiday Park
Located right near the river and just a short car drive from the main street, the BIG4 had everything we needed. There’s a pool, BBQ areas, and a camp kitchen. The amenities are kept clean, and the showers had plenty of pressure and were hot. —Ideal for travellers looking for a bit of comfort while still staying close to nature. We stayed in our caravan on a large grassed site. There are also a few sites overlooking the Murray River.
We loved being able to walk straight from the park to the riverside for an early morning walk. The Barham Lakes were beside the Caravan Park and there is a walking track around the Lakes. This is a good place to go for a walk and see the bird life, like black swans, ducks and other water birds.
Morning: Exploring Barham’s Main Street And Local Flavour
After breakfast, we wandered down Barham’s Murray Street, the town’s main drag, lined with local shops, a couple of pubs, and the town bakery. We stopped at the Barham Bakery for morning tea, having the vanilla slice and apple scroll. There is a lot of indoor and outdoor seating to sit down and eat. They also have an indoor toilet, which you don’t always get at a bakery.
We then went for a walk along the street and had a look through a few shops. There are some lovely little boutique shops, and we found a lovely clothes shop.
River Views, Walking Tracks And Fishing Spots
Barham is all about the Murray River, and there are plenty of spots to sit, fish, or walk along its banks. We took the River Walk Trail, which loops along the riverfront, weaving past shady red gums and quiet picnic areas. If you enjoy fishing, it is a great place to fish for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly.
There are more red-gum sculptures along the river on the Barham side. Near the bridge, there is a grassy area with a playground. The council offices and the Library are also located here. Facing Murray Street is an interesting sculpture using items from the past, with the town clock at the top. This structure was designed by a female art teacher at the Barham High School and assembled by a local fabricator. The children from the High School helped with the design and assembly of the structure.
If you’re after something lighter or more casual, The Riverside Café also serves good coffee, toasties, and salads in a relaxed setting. It is located along Murray Street, and it has tables inside and outside. A great place to meet up with friends over a coffee.
Things To See When You Drive Around Barham
Taking a drive around Barham allows you to explore things that you may not normally see. Heading along the road out towards Moulamein, you pass by a water tank that is painted with a Mural.
The Barham water tower mural, painted in April 2025 by acclaimed Australian artist Gus Eagleton, is a striking addition to the River Country Art Trail. Located on Gonn Street at Barham Recreation Reserve, the tower is divided into three thematic panels that weave a powerful narrative celebrating the region’s identity.
One section pays tribute to Australia’s military heritage, depicting a ceremonial Light Horseman accompanied by the Bendigo Highland Pipe Band, a solemn homage to those who served. Another segment honors Indigenous culture, featuring a portrait of a local First Nations person alongside symbolic fauna such as the long-neck turtle and native river bird, underlining the deep connection between Aboriginal people and the Murray River landscape.
The final panel, titled “The Murray River at Dawn,” evokes a serene dawn scene with red gums reflected in soft light over the water, capturing both the natural beauty and cultural resonance of the river that has shaped Barham for centuries.
There is an off-road area to park beside the tank. You will find new toilets and picnic tables to stop for a break.
Barham Golf Club And cluBarham Golf Resort
Barham’s premier golfing venue is cluBarham Golf & Sports (previously Barham Golf Club), a public 18‑hole championship course about 2 km from the town centre and on the NSW side of the Murray River. The layout features lush grass, natural bush surrounds, and challenging bunkers. Facilities are top‑notch, including a well‑stocked pro shop, practice area, gym, plus tennis and lawn bowls options.
Accommodation Options
Comfort Suites CluBarham Golf Resort, located on‑site at 6–8 Niemur Street, offers stay‑and‑play convenience with self‑contained two- or three‑bedroom units, each with two bathrooms, full kitchens, air-conditioning, and decks overlooking the course. The resort also features cabins, caravan and RV sites, as well as a solar‑heated saltwater pool, wading pool, and undercover BBQ area.
For those seeking alternative stays, the cluBarham Motel in town (45 Murray Street) provides modern, comfortable rooms and friendly service. Another notable option is the Barham Bridge Motor Inn, a 4-star riverside motel with approximately 23 rooms. Overall, cluBarham offers a seamless golf‑and‑stay experience with high‑quality course design, resort-style accommodations and amenities, plus a couple of solid town‑based options if you prefer staying closer to central Barham.
Barham Services Club
Barham Services Club, branded as cluBarham, is a well-established community hub located at 6 Niemur Street on the banks of the Murray River. Open daily (typically 10 AM–11 PM on weekdays and later on weekends), it offers a wide range of services and facilities catering to locals and visitors.
Inside, the club mixes relaxed dining, sports, and entertainment under one roof. Rivergum Bistro and Don’s Kitchen serve pub-style meals. We had an evening meal at the Rivergum Bistro. The meals were nice, I had the Redgum Chicken Parmigiana and Leo had BBQ spare pork ribs.
Sports fans can catch live footy, horse racing, or pokies, while members enjoy access to bowling greens, golf, and tennis courts across the broader cluBarham precinct. There are a lot of different areas in the club to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.
Overall, cluBarham is more than just a service club, it’s a central meeting point for the Barham community and visiting golfers. Combining casual dining, social and sporting infrastructure, entertainment, and accommodation links provides a warm, inclusive atmosphere for all ages.
Final Thoughts: Why Koondrook And Barham Are Worth The Stop
Whether you’re road-tripping along the Murray River or just looking for a peaceful weekend escape, Koondrook and Barham offer the kind of experience that’s getting harder to find—authentic, relaxed, and rich in small-town charm. With their scenic riverfronts, proud heritage, local craftsmanship, and strong community spirit, these twin towns invite you to slow down and reconnect with nature, history, and good old-fashioned hospitality.
From watching the sunset on the wharf to exploring red gum forests and enjoying hearty meals at the local café or pub, a day in Koondrook and Barham is time well spent. It’s the kind of place where you arrive as a visitor and leave feeling like a local.
So next time you’re planning your Murray River adventure, don’t just pass through—stop, stay, and soak up the magic of Koondrook-Barham. You might just find yourself coming back.