Koondrook – a rustic pioneer town on the Murray
Koondrook is a lovely country town and popular family holiday destination 305km North-West of Melbourne, sitting just on the Victorian side of the Murray River opposite the town of Barham. It’s only 20 minutes drive from Cohuna.
Koondrook Wharf
In 2016 the Wharf opened, showcasing a community-inspired area including a moored pontoon, a 28-metre ramp down onto the floating pontoon and a number of viewing platforms within the tree canopy. The design retains historical elements yet allows paddle steamers and large watercraft to berth and pick up passengers.
It’s been over half a century since the old Wharf was dismantled. The new wharf has been constructed alongside the spot the original wharf was located. The main section of the Wharf was constructed using red gum timber sourced locally from the Arbuthnot Sawmills.
Not only a wharf, the area is now a site for events, celebrations, cultural activities and arts.
The Koondrook Wharf was shortlisted in three categories of the 2018 Victorian Architecture Awards and was awarded the Regional Prize Architecture Award, Urban Design Architecture Award and Small Projects Architecture Award.
Eating in Koondrook
The Long Paddock Food store serves coffee and a range of delicious cafe meals made from the best local produce.
The General Store has everything you need for your short stop in town – or if you’re staying a while. Newspapers, pizzas and all the basics.
Take a short walk into Main Street from the wharf and you can enjoy traditional pub meals at Mate’s Royal Hotel. Located in the middle of town, Mates has great meals along with good old-fashioned service.
Apex Park
Right near the Koondrook Wharf sits Apex Park. Enjoy views of the Murray or have a BBQ under the sheltered area while kids explore the playground. The fenced playground is suitable for young and older kids and also offers adult gym equipment. There’s toilets across the road.
Walking Tracks
There are a few popular walking tracks in Koondrook where you can learn about the rich indigenous and pioneer history of this unique area. The Red Gum Forest walk starts at Condidorio’s Bridge and heads through the Gunbower State Forest. Choose from the Eagle Loop or the Turtle loop, suitable for most ages and levels of fitness.
Where to Stay
There is a caravan park at Koondrook offering a range of powered and unpowered sites and ensuite cabins. Alternatively, the Cohuna Waterfront Holiday Park is just 20 mins drive away and offers a wider range of cabins and sites, in addition to a swimming pool, tennis court, jumping pillow and other family friendly facilities. Book online today.
Featured Image via https://www.visitkerangcohunakoondrook.com.au/on-the-murray/koondrook-wharf
Sources
https://www.visitkerangcohunakoondrook.com.au/on-the-murray/koondrook-wharf
https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/news-Media/Koondrook-Wharf-project-on-track
http://hirstprojects.com.au/projects/koondrook-wharf/
https://www.aussietowns.com.au/town/koondrook-vic
https://www.visitkerangcohunakoondrook.com.au/on-the-murray/koondrook-wharf
https://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/5503727/koondrook-wharf-wins-three-awards/