Griffith is a popular town in the heart of the Riverina region, known for its natural beauty and delicious food and wine offerings.
Just 30 minutes from town, you will find Cocoparra National Park. This stunning destination is brimming with bushwalks and bird watching opportunities, including the chance to spot a locally-threatened glossy black cockatoo. Take the Falcon Falls walking track to pass waterfalls, greenery, and enjoy woodland birdwatching. During the spring, you’ll find colourful wildflowers, orchids, wattles and tea trees. The park also contains several ancient Aboriginal sites. As part of Wiradjuri country, the area was likely used during winter and spring when food resources were scarce along the river.
Back in town, the Griffith Botanical Gardens span almost 40 acres, including areas such as the Japanese garden, rose garden and native plant garden. Each year, Griffith also hosts Spring Fest – a celebration of the coming season including the option to visit some of the most beautiful private gardens in the area, enjoy a creative citrus display and indulge in an array of offerings from local wine and food vendors.
While exploring the area, make sure to keep an eye out for the sculptures dotted throughout the main streets. The cornucopia sculpture is a stainless-steel artwork representing abundance, located right on the median strip and surrounded by benches for quiet contemplation. Outside the Griffith City Council Chambers, the brass statue of a lady honours pioneer women of the region, and their contribution to transforming Griffith into a thriving area.
For even more impressive art, head to the Griffith Regional Art Gallery. As the permanent home of the National Contemporary Jewellery Collection and the Couture Collection, it brings together artists from around the country to celebrate talent in all forms. The gallery is always hosting events such as open sessions to support local artists hoping to work on new pieces and meet likeminded creatives, as well as workshops and talks.
Hermit’s Cave, a formation found at the top of Scenic Hill in the McPherson Ranges, was once home to a miner from Broken Hill who lived in its walls and transformed the rocky escarpment into an area he called ‘the garden.’ Today, visitors will find paintings of small daisies on the cave walls, left by the miner, as well as living areas and stone walls that make up a heritage trail.
A brief drive from the cave is Griffith Pioneer Park Museum, a cultural centre dedicated to the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area’s rich history. First opened in 1971, the museum features a range of unique attractions including the ‘Old Griffith’ main street, Italian Museum, and the Wine and Irrigation Building, which tells the story of the local wine and irrigation industries. Visitors will also discover old machinery and vehicles.
Based out of Griffith, Riverina Helicopters has been operating scenic flights over Australia’s food bowl for more than 25 years. Jump into a piloted helicopter and take in the incredible views of Lake Wyangan, valleys and vineyards from way up above. There are several different packages to choose from, including a winery tour where you touch down at some of the best growers in the region for a tasting along the way.
To discover the packed calendar of festivals and events in Griffith, click here.
Featured image: Cocoparra National Park © Destination NSW
