Fast facts
- The birthplace of Australian Federation
- A heritage town with traditional 19th century architecture nestled on the banks of the Murray River
- 609 km south-west of Sydney, population 5,300
Great specials
Why go there
Steeped in history, the broad main street of this classic country town leads down to the northern banks of the Murray River. Nearby is Howlong, loved by anglers, Lake Mulwala and Rutherglen wine region.
The acclaimed Australian artist Tom Roberts visited nearby Brocklesby Station to finish his famous "Shearing of the Rams", which now hangs in the Ian Potter Centre: National Gallery of Victoria.
History
In the late 1880s a Border Federation League was formed in Corowa to promote free trade within the country and to push for federal (rather than State) control of customs duties.
The John Foord Bridge, which spanned the Murray River from Corowa to neighbouring Wahgunyah in Victoria, attracted tariffs at either end, making expansion into the Victorian Markets prohibitively expensive.
The historic Federation Conference, held at Corowa in 1893, paved the way for a national, elected government.
Things to do
- Take a self-guided town walk with a map from the Information Centre. The numerous historic buildings also have adjacent storyboards explaining their history.
- View the landscape from the air with a glider flight or on a tandem skydive.
- Enjoy a picnic along the Murray or wander along a wetlands trail to see native birds and wildlife.
- Play a round of golf at one of the excellent courses in Corowa or Howlong.
- Have fun at a local event such as the Australian Billy Cart Championship at Easter.
Don’t miss
- A trip back in time with a Murray River cruise.
- The Federation Museum and National Federation Festival in January.
- The Murray Bank Yabby Farm and fishing for Murray Cod.
- A trip into Victoria to visit wineries at Wahgunyah and Rutherglen.
- Melbourne Cup Race Day in November.
