What’s on in the Wimmera Mallee this February
OK Motels
Friday 17 – Sunday 19 February
Charlton, various locations
Gear up for an unforgettable weekend of music, fun, and culture at the OK Motels Charlton Pool Party Edition! This is a celebration of one of our favourite country towns in its finest form. Taking place from February 17th to 19th in the charming, ‘friendly river town’ of Charlton, this event is jam-packed with an incredible line-up of acts, including Julia Jacklin, Civic, Party Dozen, Frente, Eaten by Dogs, Ali, ENOLA, Blend ft. ‘The Weed’ and many more.
At its core, OK Motels is a hot take on what is quintessentially country. The local town pool will be ramped up for a crackin’ pool party. The CWA (Country Womens Association) will be serving up a delicious Devo Tea (you can trust them to make a mean scone), alongside a game or two of barefoot bowls and the local bowl-o. There will also be a surprise pop-up show at the East Charlton Hotel, a dinner and show with meals cooked by the Charlton College Food Tech, and an amazing Dja Dja Wurrung Welcome to Country Music and Dance Celebration.
Plus, there will be a whole new space to dance in, with the Pool Cabana Bar and Disco and Room 26 Karaoke. The town is putting on a real show for you too, with a flurry activities and events that will give you a great sense of what this town is all about. Farm visit at Bushy’s Lodge, Uniting Church Vintage Books and Stuff Sale, Senior Citz Pop Up Vintage Sale, Garage Sales, Charlton Vintage and Backyard Bar, Nyernila Indigenous Avoca Art Trail, Birds of Mt Dooboobetic photography exhibition, Charlton CFA Open Day, and Sunday BBQ Brekky. Get in quick, tickets are going faster than you can say ‘that sounds grouse!’
Goroke Rodeo
Saturday 25 February
Gates 3PM, Rodeo 6PM onwards
Goroke Showgrounds, Main Street, Goroke
Pull on the cowboy boots and giddy-up on for an unforgettable night of thrills and excitement at the Goroke Rodeo on February 25th! This event will feature some of the most daring bull riding and barrel racing in the country, as well as free camping to enjoy a night under the stars after all the action. Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast or a first-time spectator, this event will make you shout ‘‘Straya!’ more than double pluggers and a full, chilled esky on a hot summers’ day.
The Goroke Rodeo is a perfect opportunity to experience the heart of the country lifestyle with great community, music, food, and atmosphere. Tickets at the gate.
Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon
Friday 17 – Sunday 19 February
78 Lake Charlegrark Road, Minimay
Speaking of Lake Charlegrark, get ready for a musical smorgasbord at the Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon. Running from February 17th to the 19th, this event will feature a line-up of the greats including headliner Kasey Chambers, Jayne Denham, Bill Chambers, Brett Gray and many more. The Music Marathon has become a Wimmera Mallee staple, with people from all ages coming together to enjoy the community atmosphere.
The event takes place along the picturesque banks of Lake Charlegrark, providing the perfect backdrop for a weekend of fun. There will be free camping available in the “paddock” on a first in, best dressed basis. This event is a great opportunity to experience the best of Australian country music while enjoying the idyllic outdoors with friends and family.
150km Feast
Saturday 25 February – Saturday 4 March
Horsham – various locations
Indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the best of the Wimmera Mallee region at the 150km Feast. This annual harvest festival brings together the region’s top farmers, winemakers, growers, and producers to showcase their finest seasonal produce within a 150km radius of Horsham.
This feast is more than just one day, it’s an entire week of food and wine experiences, from garden parties to local dining on produce. The Horsham Agricultural Society’s number one fundraiser, the tickets include food, drinks, and entertainment.
Experience the beauty of the Wimmera River as you dine al fresco and enjoy a curated menu crafted by local chefs, paired with the region’s finest wines and craft beers. The rustic styling and subtle lighting creates the perfect ambiance for good conversation and a memorable foodie adventure
Henley on Lake Wallace
Saturday 11 February
Midday onward
Lake Wallace, Lake Street, Edenhope
Henley on Lake Wallace is a family festival that brings the community together for a day of fun and excitement. This year marks the 100th anniversary of this beloved event and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. The streets will be lined with floats and the banks of Lake Wallace will be alive with live music, food vendors, jumping castles and face painting. There’s something for everyone to enjoy with activities for all ages.
Hitting the stage will be lauded kids’ act, The Mik Maks! Round up the kids, cousins, Charlie the dog and even Jim down the road for a boogie to their rockin’ tunes. In true Aussie fashion, you’ll also find a Yabby Eating Competition and the traditional Rolling Pin Throwing Contest. Trust us, it’s harder than it looks but it makes for a great laugh!
Hindmarsh Community Concert Series
Nhill Concert
Jaypex Park, Western Highway
Friday 10 February, 6PM – 9PM
Dimboola Concert
Community and Civic Hub (behind the Library at 101 Lloyd Street)
Friday 24 February, 6PM – 9PM
It’s time to pull out the picnic blanket and head downtown a classic summer experience. The Summer Community Concert Series, produced by Hindmarsh Shire Council, is heading to Nhill and Dimboola and it’s your chance to make the most of our epic balmy summer nights.
Two evenings of free entertainment will be offered for you to enjoy in Nhill and Dimboola, with leading local acts Darryn Wardle, Jeff Woodward and Acoustic Box. Bring your chairs, blankets, and a picnic and get ready for a relaxed evening of fun with friends and family. Experience live music in the great outdoors of the Wimmera Mallee.
Charlton Courthouse Gallery Exhibition
Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 February
10AM – 5PM
8 Camp Street, Charlton
Step into the world of bird watching and experience the world through the lens of Stuart Giles at the Charlton Courthouse Gallery Exhibition. This photographic exhibition by Stuart Giles captures the stunning beauty and diversity of birdlife on his property and at the Mt Dooboobetic Reserve.
From majestic eagles to delicate songbirds, this exhibition will take you on a visual journey through the natural world. The photographs are not only beautiful but also show the importance of preserving our natural environment. The exhibition is a great opportunity to appreciate the wildlife around us and support local photography. Entry is a gold coin donation.
Markets
Dimboola Tower Park Market
Saturday 11 February
9AM – 1PM
Tower Park, 116-129 Lloyd Street, Dimboola
Charlton Creatives Market
Saturday 18 February
10AM – 3PM
Charton Shire Hall, 11 Armstrong Street, Charlton
Jung Market
Saturday 25 February
9AM – 1PM
Jung Recreation Reserve Rd, Jung
Apsley Market
Sunday 26 February
10AM – 1PM
Apsley Hall, Wallace Street, Apsley
