Things to do in and around Rushworth...

Boating and Fishing
Waranga Basin is to the immediate north-east of town. It was designed by John Dethbridge, who invented the Dethbridge water wheel, and was completed in 1916. The water derives from the Goulburn Weir and is relayed to the Goulburn Valley and across the north of the state to the Mallee. There are 3 boat ramps with easy access and camping and picnic areas. Also within an easy drive are the channels from the Basin, the Goulburn River, the Campaspe River and the Murray River.

Bushwalking
South of the town is the largest ironbark forest in the Southern Hemisphere. It includes the historic town of Whroo, where you can still see the open cut Balaclava Mine, although the buildings have all disappeared. There are many kilometres of tracks which are a delight to walk, listening and watching for 100 species of birds, watching for kangaroos, wallabies and other wildlife. In springtime search for the rare orchids found in this area and many other flowers.

Birdwatching
There are over 100 species in the Rushworth Forest.

Farmers Markets
There are two famous famers markets within easy driving distance of Rushworth. The Girgarre Farmers market with its famous chook auction is held every second Sunday of the month. Girgarre is a 20 minute drive north of Rushworth just past Stanhope. The Violet Town market, which is 1 hour west of Rushworth, is another popular market held every second Saturday of the month. Rushworth has its own small market in the centre of town held every third Saturday of the month.

Gold Prospecting
Rushworth started its life as a gold-mining village. All the big mines have now closed down but any time you go out into the forest you will find intrepid prospectors, determined to find the 'big one'. Small nuggets are found on a regular basis and panning for gold is good after substantial rain when there is a lot of water in dams and depressions.

Horse and Bike Riding
These activities are permitted in the forest providing you stick to the trails. Many enjoyable hours can be spent exploring the forest from Rushworth to Graytown.

Painting and Photography
This area has many interesting heritage and farm buildings to photograph, paint and sketch. The scenery can be stunning and the skyscapes magnificent.

Swimming
Either at the swimming pool in Rushworth, open in the summer, or at Waranga Basin, a popular place for water sports.

Wineries
Rushworth is less than an hours drive from a number of very good vineyards. The main ones in the area are Tahbilk Winery, Mitchelton Winery, and then there are smaller boutique wineries like Lake Cooper Estate and Burrumboot Estate.

Source: rushwortheasterfestival.org.au