About the Loddon Valley

The Loddon Valley, in the heart of central Victoria, is a place of wide-open landscapes, welcoming towns, and authentic country charm. Covering more than 6,700 square kilometres, Loddon Shire is one of Victoria’s largest rural municipalities, stretching from the fertile plains of Serpentine in the south to the rolling woodlands of Kooyoora and the iconic grasslands of Terrick Terrick National Park in the north.

Our Towns

The region is home to a collection of vibrant communities, each with its own character and story to share:

  • Wedderburn – the Shire’s major service center, rich in gold history and home to the award-winning Hard Hill Tourist Reserve.
  • Inglewood – a heritage gold rush town, now known as the Eucalyptus Capital of Australia, with a main street full of antique and vintage treasures.
  • Boort – set on the shores of Little Lake Boort, famous for the Spanner Man Sculpture Garden and strong connections to Aboriginal heritage.
  • Bridgewater – a popular riverside town on the Loddon River, celebrated for water sports, camping and its renowned bakery.
  • Pyramid Hill, Tarnagulla, Serpentine, Mitiamo and Newbridge – smaller rural communities, each with their own charm, historic halls and welcoming spirit.

Country Life, Naturally

The Loddon Valley is shaped by its natural landscapes granite outcrops, golden fields, flowing rivers and wetlands. Agriculture is the lifeblood of the region, with grain, sheep, cattle and horticulture sustaining local communities and contributing to Victoria’s food bowl.

A Connected Community

While the towns may be small, the sense of community is strong. Across the Shire, more than 7,300 residents call the Loddon Valley home. Festivals, markets, art shows and sporting events bring people together throughout the year, celebrating creativity, culture and country living.

A Place to Visit, A Place to Belong

Whether you’re here to explore the outdoors, trace gold rush history, or enjoy the slower pace of rural life, the Loddon Valley offers a true country experience, just 2 hours from Melbourne and less than an hour from Bendigo.