Edenhope

Edenhope may be the regional hub for the shire, but the big smoke it ain’t, and instead life here remains blissfully relaxed. Set along a pleasant main street of shops, galleries, antiques and a pub, Edenhope is best known for both its centrepiece lake and cricketing history.

When rainfalls are healthy, Lake Wallace is abuzz with holidaymakers here for fishing, water-skiing and boating. At other times it remains a lovely spot for lakeside camping, picnicking, walks and fantastic birdwatching – including the rare opportunity to spot the prized brolga in its natural habitat. It was here on Lake Wallace’s grassy banks where Australia’s first international cricket team gathered to train. A cenotaph marks the spot where this remarkable story took place back in the 1860s.

Edenhope boasts some stunning murals. Most notable are the evocative artworks of the region’s birdlife by West Wimmera artist Geoffrey Carran (who painted Goroke’s silo). The town’s Red Tail Gallery also features lovely exhibitions by regional artists. But it’s the Now Dach's a Gallery that has tails wagging. While a museum dedicated to a sausage dog may seem a bit niche, that’s all part of the fun, and the annual dachshund festival brings in four-legged friends from all over. Make sure you explore the Edenhope Antique shop on your visit.

For local info, drop by Edenhope’s Visitor Centre located inside an historic courthouse that sits adjacent to a wooden 19^th-century gaol. Here they can assist you on anything from where to see wildflowers to the best spots to spy red-tail black cockatoos.