THE Wimmera region is bustling this long-weekend as an influx of visitors gathers in the region.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mt Arapiles is a popular spot for many people, with rock-climbing enthusiasts packing the camping grounds.
Bendigo resident Michael Totterdell said he had been visiting Mt Arapiles for 40 years for rock-climbing.
He was camping at the base of the natural landmark with his family, including children and grandchildren, for the Easter long-weekend.
"Mt Arapiles was the first place I visited when I came here from England," he said.
"I love coming here and come here for both work and for recreation. My family has been visiting with me since my daughters were children."
Melbourne resident Liz Haynes was also camping at the site with her family to go rock-climbing.
She said the family was visiting relatives in Naracoorte, South Australia and planned to camp at Mt Arapiles for four nights during Easter.
Natimuk's Arapiles Mountain Shop manager Wayne Webb said he thought the Easter weekend had been quieter than normal.
"This is typically our busiest weekend for the whole year, besides from what the Nati Frinj is on," Mr Webb said.
"The camping grounds are still very busy, but it's not as busy as normal. Sometimes people have to park on the main road out of the camping grounds because it's so packed."
Warracknabeal will host its annual Easter YFest this weekend. The four day event will start on Friday, April 19 and end on Monday, April 22.
Warracknabeal Caravan Park manager Andrew Richards said the town's population swelled to 5000 people during the festival.
"We were completely booked out three months ago. We have more than 40 sites full with about 60 vans or tents," he said.
"It's one of our busiest weekends for the year, beside from the football finals. There is just so much going on."
Mr Richards said it was common for repeat visitors to make the trip back for the festival each year.
"A lot of people come here to visit relatives so it really fills up quickly. It's really great for the region's economy and tourism," he said.
"All the caravans parks in the Yarriambiack shire - from Hopetoun to Murtoa - would be booked out, and the Silo Art Trail has really helped that interest."
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox twice weekly from the Wimmera Mail-Times. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Wimmera, sign up below.
