General News
26 September, 2025
Wimmera River trail officially open for business
A beautiful spring day greeted around 70 people at Antwerp for the official opening of the Wimmera River Discovery Trail on Sunday, September 14.
Attendees gathered at the Antwerp Hall to hear the background of the Wimmera River Discovery Trail before moving down to the new camping area behind the Antwerp Tennis Courts for the official opening, officiated by Hindmarsh Shire Council mayor Ron Ismay.
"It is exciting to be opening this new trail through such a beautiful and significant cultural and environmental landscape," Cr Ismay said.
"We look forward to welcoming many walkers and cyclists, both local and visiting, to experience the trail."
Following this, council staff guided around 30 people along a section of the trail, sharing stories about the decade-long project that led up to this opening day.
Attendees commented on how excited they were about the new trail and how beautiful the Wimmera River corridor is for walking and riding along.
The 56km walking and cycling trail links Dimboola and Jeparit with the Antwerp campground, marking the halfway point.
Vehicle access is available at several points, allowing the trail to be completed in six sections ranging from 6km to 13km.
“Hindmarsh Shire Council would like to thank all individuals and agencies involved for their support of the project, particularly our project funding partners: the Victorian State Government, the Department of Transport, and the Federal Government's Building Better Regions Fund," Cr Ismay said.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who has contributed to making the Wimmera River Discovery Trail a reality.
"Council believes the trail is a significant tourism attraction to our region and will help continue growth in our visitor economy.”
Hindmarsh Shire Council would also like to thank Barengi Gadjin Land Council for their support and input throughout the project, particularly with the development of the Cultural Heritage Management Plan.
Information about the trail, and a digital brochure can be found at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/WRDT.
The trail is also listed on the popular walking app, AllTrails, along with the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism Visitor App.
