Kaniva

Halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide the thriving township of Kaniva is the perfect place to break your journey on the Western Highway. Stroll down the compact shopping strip, which offers something for everyone.

Whether you want 4WD tours or bushwalking, Kaniva is the gateway to the Big Desert Wilderness Park to the north, and nearby Red Bluff, a red stone monolith. The Little Desert is to the south, with its myriad wildflowers, native orchids and rare birds. If time is short visit the Fauna Park and Wetlands at the edge of town, with bird hides, electric BBQ and picnic area.

History buffs can visit the Kaniva Museum or the historic town of Serviceton to explore the heritage Railway Station and Customs House. Car enthusiasts will love the Kaniva Car Museum with its large collection of Monaros and the ‘Kaniva Look at Ya Toys’ Car Show in Februray.

The Kaniva Visitor Information Centre is located in the Morning Loaf Bakery, alongside Kaniva’s famous Big Windmill. The windmill signifies the abundant underground water which is the life-blood of Kaniva and it’s diverse farming district. The underground water also supports lush expanses of lawn, extensive flower beds, and tree growth throughout the town, laying claim to Kaniva’s title as Victoria’s Garden of Eden.

Birth place of many noted artists including Marcus Wills winner of the 2006 Archibald Prize, Percy Leason & Bob Marchant.

BUSHWALKS

Billy Ho Bushwalk (Lillimur South Road)

Yanipy Bush Block (Edenhope-Kaniva Road)

Moree Historic Reserve Bushwalk (Lillimur South Road)

Maps and information available at Visitor Information Centre.

PLACES TO EAT

Facilities

Shopping Centre: Wide range of goods and services. Two supermarkets open seven days, pharmacy, post office, community. EFTPOS facilities, plus arts and crafts.

Community Roadhouse: Food, petrol and Diesel.

Hospital and Medical Services: Public hospital, doctor, maternal and child health centre, auxiliary health services.

Internet and Email Access: Available at the Library, Visitor Information Centre and Learning and Informaiton Network Kaniva (LINK)

Sporting Facilities: Gymnasium, sporting complex, SunSmart seasonal swimming pool, squash, badminton, basketball, golf course, rec reserve, football, netball, hockey & skate park

Public Toilets: Situated at the Windmill Corner. Baby change room and wheelchair access. Public toilets also available at Band Park.

Things to do

Check out the Monaro collection at the Car Museum

Marvel at the Shire Hall Ceiling Cameos

Wander through the Wetlands and Fauna Park

Visit the footware collection at the Visitor Information Centre

Architectural splendour at the Serviceton Railway Station

Olive groves at Telopea Downs