Balranald

Surrounded by spectacular riverscapes and national park, Balranald is a great base to explore Yanga National Park, iconic Australian rivers and the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park. You’ll also discover a beautiful heritage town brimming with history.

River attractions

The Murrumbidgee, Lachlan, Wakool, Edward and mighty Murray rivers are all within 30min drive, making Balranald a popular destination for boating, kayaking and fishing. Catch Murray cod, yellowbelly, perch or redfin on the Five Rivers Fishing Trail, a must for keen anglers.

Pick up a brochure from the Balranald Visitor Information Centre for other river-based attractions, such as the Regatta Beach Picnic Area. This tranquil lakeside spot provides great camping, swimming and paddling opportunities under towering river gums.

Heritage & history

Explore the town’s history on the Balranald Heritage Trail, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Make sure to stop at the Balranald Gallery, housed in the original Masonic Lodge dating back to 1880. Other things to do include a self-guided tour of Yanga Woolshed. Built in the 1870s, it was once the largest woolshed in the district. Stop for lunch at the Yanga Woolshed picnic area.

Another fascinating place to explore is Yanga Historic Homestead, with stables, gardener’s shed and rose gardens. Enjoy scenic wetland views and bird-watching on the nearby Yanga Lake walking track. Outback Geo Adventures offer guided tours of Yanga National Park and Mungo National Park.

Getting there & where to stay

Situated on the Sturt Highway, Balranald is just under nine hours drive from Sydney, five hours from Melbourne and six hours from Adelaide. The Riverina wine region town of Griffith is three hours away and the nearest regional airport is in Mildura, less than two hours’ drive away. Places to stay include The Homebush, a classic country pub that opened in 1878, or you can camp by the Murrumbidgee River in Yanga National Park, as explorers Burke and Wills once did.