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Wimmera Mallee is home to the towering artworks of The Silo Art Trail, a project that transforms disused grain silos into breathtaking pieces of art, each telling the story of the
town they’re situated in.

From photo-realistic portraits of local legends to stunning pictures of native flora and fauna, every silo will have you stop and wonder in awe. Not just at the skill of the artists, but also the region’s natural surroundings and deep history that inspired them.

Often referred to as Australia’s largest outdoor gallery, the trail stretches for 200 kilometres and features 13 silo arts. There are also a host of other artworks just waiting to be discovered down the streets and laneways of the towns that dot the region.

This three-day Silo Art Trail road trip itinerary links all 13 artworks, alongside a host of other
artworks and activities from sandboarding to aviation museums, and everything you can
imagine in between.

Follow the itinerary exactly for a non-stop packed three days or pick and choose what
appeals for a slower pace.

Day 1 on the Silo Art Trail itinerary

This is the longest and busiest day of the itinerary, so make sure you fuel up with some coffee and hit the road nice and early to make the most of your day.

Rupanyup Silo Art

Start your Silo Trail in the quaint town of Rupanyup, which means ‘branch hanging over water’ in native Indigenous language. If that summons visions of a relaxed place to enjoy the sunshine and take life at a slower pace, then you won’t be disappointed.

Rupanyup’s Silo Art was created by Russian mural artist Julia Volchkova, who brought to life the town’s love of team sport and the spirit of community. The giant twin solos feature young residents Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann, in their netball and Aussie rules uniforms.

Woods Farming and Heritage Museum

After your obligatory silo selfie, head to Woods Museum and discover more about the farming history of the region. There’s a huge collection of stationary engines, tractors, tools and farm memorabilia.

Goodie Firefighter Art

Located on the side of the Old shire office building, 59 Cromie Street, Rupanyup, this piece of artwork was created by Melbourne street artist Georgia Goodie. A tribute to the volunteer firefighters across the region who work so hard to keep the area safe, there is also another mural on Dyer Street, on the side of a fire-damaged house.

Murtoa Stick Shed

A short 11-minute detour from the town centre is Murtoa Stick Shed, the only remaining emergency grain store built during World War II. You don’t need to be a WWII or a farming buff to enjoy this though; the incredible structure is often referred to as the ‘Cathedral of the Wimmera’, and one look at the dramatic, sun-filled interior built from thousands of timber
poles, and it’s easy to see why.

Sheep Hills Silo Art

Jump back in the car for a 30-minute picturesque drive to Sheep Hills Silo Art. Designed and painted by  Melbourne-based artist, Adnate. The silo art was inspired by the artist’s friendship with the Barengi Gadjin Land Council in northwest Victoria.

As described on the silo trail website, ‘Adnate’s depiction of Wergaia Elder, Uncle Ron Marks, and Wotjobaluk Elder, Aunty Regina Hood, alongside two young children, Savannah Marks and Curtly McDonald celebrates the richness of the area’s Indigenous culture.’

Lunchtime in the pub

You’re spoiled for choice in Warracknabeal with not one, not two, but three pubs to choose from. The Royal Mail Hotel and the Palace Hotel all offer an excellent section of pub-style food and drinks in buildings bursting with history. The Creekside Hotel offers pizzas, salads, and more on the banks of the Yarriambiack Creek.

Wheatland Warehouse second-hand shop

Op shop lovers rejoice! Just 15 minutes drive from the silo art is the Wheatland Warehouse
second-hand shop. From second-hand furniture to vintage accessories, you could easily spend a whole afternoon here rediscovering gems of the past.

Brim Silo Art 

Another short 15-minute drive and you’ll discover the huge and impressive Brim Silo Art, painted by Australian artist Guido Van Helten. His realistic, photographic-style mural features the faces of farmers, who — although anonymous — symbolise the incredible strength and resilience being a farmer in the harsh Victorian countryside requires.

Reddas Park

This tranquil park, with camping spots available, is the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and relax by the water.

Beulah Murals

In the nearby town of Beulah, you’ll discover the Arabian Horse Mural by contemporary Australian artist Kaff-eine. The stunning white horses stand out strikingly against the red bricks, and it’s an absolute must-see whilst travelling the Silo Art Trail. A quick stop at the Beulah Memorial Hall is also worth it. In fact, you’ll have more Instagram content than you’ll know what to do with, thanks to its bright, colourful murals by Kitt Bennett and French artist JAW.

Rosebery Silo Art 

Another piece of art by Kaff-eine, for the Rosebery Silo Art, the silo on the left features a young female farmer and the silo on the right shows a contemporary horseman. The murals aim to demonstrate the grit and determination of farmers in the region and their loving relationship with their animals.

Sharp’s Bakery, Birchip

It’s been a big day, but you’re not done yet. That’s why an award-winning vanilla slice and coffee at Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip is a must — giving you the sugar rush you need to power through the last few silos of the day. Make sure you stop and see the Mallee Bull too, a statue of a copper bull in the heart of Birchip.

Mali Heart Street Art Trail

You’ll discover six murals throughout Birchip, part of the Mali Heart Art Trail created during an arts festival in March 2022. All of the artworks are impressive, but one well worth a mention is the collaboration between Birchip P-12 school and Blender Studios. It features depictions of local flora and fauna, hand painted by the children.

Watchem Mini Silo

The street art continues with the Watchem Mini Silo, painted by street artist Matt Adnate and located on Hoban Street. The silo features bright and eye-catching portraits of the late and great local sporting legends, Graeme Lang and Ian McCallum.

Wycheproof

The tiny town of Wycheproof, home to the smallest registered mountain in the world. There’s also a great bakery, some good shopping and even a golf course if you want to stop and extend your stay.

Nullawil Silo Art

Artist Sam Bates (AKA Smug) painted the Nullawil Silo Art. Featuring an aussie farmer in a flannel shirt with his best furry friend, the mural is bound to be a hit with dog lovers and everyone else. The photo-like realism of this piece has to be seen to be believed.

 Sea Lake Silo Art 

The GrainCorp Silos at Sea Lake were painted by Joel Fergie, aka The Zookeeper and Travis Vinson, aka Drapl in 2019. A celebration of the stillness found in outback Victoria, the silos feature a young girl, swinging from a Mallee Eucalyptus, looking over nearby Lake Tyrrell. Created in consultation with The Boorong People, the silo draws on the deep Indigenous history of the local area and the Boorong People’s knowledge of astronomy.

Lake Tyrrell

You’re just a hop, skip and a jump away from the largest inland salt lake in Victoria. Lake Tyrell attracts tourists from all over the world, drawn to the mesmerising scenery, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and breathtaking night skies.

Spend the night in Sea Lake

It’s time to call it a day and spend the night in Sea Lake. With plenty of places to stay from caravan parks to Airbnb’s, relax and enjoy an evening before tackling days 2 and 3 of the Silo Art Trail road trip.

No doubt you’ll be hungry after all your sightseeing, so why not book a table for dinner at the beautifully restored Royal Hotel. Proudly community owned and operated, this is more than just a pub — there’s a great atmosphere and a main bar, sports bar, The Juke restaurant and beer garden areas.

 

Day 2 on the Silo Art Trail itinerary

Woomelang Mobile Silo Art Trail

A silo art trail, hidden within a silo art trail. A 20-minute drive from Sea Lake is the Woomelang Mobile Silo Art Trail. Grab a map from the general store and while away the morning exploring the seven silos, painted with native flora and fauna including spotted tail quolls and other endangered species. Artists involved in this mini project include Jimmy DVate, Andrew J Bourke and Kaff-eine.

Lascelles Silo Art 

Ten minutes away and you’ll be standing in front of the towering Lascelles Silo Art. Painted by Melbourne-based artist‘Rone, the silo features the faces of Geoff and Merrilyn Horman, whose family has lived and farmed in the region for  four generations.

Patchewollock Silo Art 

Jump back in the car and head 30 minutes down the road to Patchewollock Silo Art, by Brisbane artist Fintan Magee. The silo features local sheep and grain farmer Nick Hulland. According to Mageem the 35-metre tall portrait of the man known as ‘Noodle’ symbolises the no-nonsense, hardworking spirit of the region.

Lunch at Patchewollock Hotel

With a busy afternoon ahead it’s time to stock up on the energy and head to Patchewollock Hotel for some well-earned food and drinks. This local pub does simply yet tasty traditional pub foods that’ll keep you going until dinner.

Sandboarding at Wyperfeld National Park

Fun for all the family, you can’t drive past Wyperfeld National Park without giving sandboarding a go. Head to Snowdrift Picnic and Camping Area. A boogie board is perfect but even a piece of cardboard will work in a pinch.

Albacutya Silo Art 

Painted by Melbourne artist Kitt Bennett, this bright and cheerful silo can’t help but make you smile, depicting Kitt’s childhood growing up in the country, exploring the bush and looking for yabbies under rocks in creeks with his parents.

Arkona Silo Art 

Another artwork by Sam Bates, AKA Smug, the Arkona Silo Art features a giant, photo-realistic portrait of the late, great, local tennis legend Roley Klinge. Roley passed away in 1991, meaning Smug had to come up with an ingenious way of painting a subject he couldn’t physically meet. You’ll have to see it to believe it.

Spend the night in Dimboola

Dimboola is the perfect place to spend your second night on the Silo Art Trail, with a good selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants. There’s also the famous pink lake if you’re wanting to see nature’s own artistic creations. Choose from a range of accommodation options including the Victoria Hotel (a traditional and historic Aussie pub), motels and cabin, caravan and camping options.

 

Day 3 on the Silo Art Trail itinerary

Nhill Heritage Aviation Museum

Enjoy an early breakfast in Dimboola before heading to Nhill, a country town 30 minutes away and home to the Nhill Heritage Aviation Museum. Open on a Saturday and a Sunday only, the museum is home to five aircraft and celebrates the town’s 100-year aviation history. During World War II over 10,000 men and women trained at the Nhill RAAF Base.

Kaniva Silo Art 

Another 30 minutes west and it’s time for more silo art. Kaniva Silo Art, painted by David Lee Pereira, features a giant and intricate picture of the Australian hobby bird. Surrounded by bright pink and blue flowers, the artwork was based on images provided by local photographer Cindy McDonald.

Sheep Art Trail

The kids will love this one. Grab yourself a map for the Sheep Art Trail in Kaniva and see if you can find all 40+ sheep, painted by local artists and community groups. Each sheep even has a name.

Kaniva Wetlands & Fauna Park playground 

This newly upgraded park features a flying fox, play area, exercise equipment, walking tracks, and a free BBQ and picnic area. It’s the perfect place to relax outside and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Plenty of lunchtime options

If a picnic isn’t your thing, there are plenty of options in town. Grab a pizza from Little Guys Pizza or enjoy delicious food at Raine’s Cafe. Community-run Purple Starfish sells all local produce, as well as baked goods and cakes. There’s also the roadhouse, the Commercial Hotel, and Worrys — a gorgeous art store and ice cream shop.

Kaniva Puppet shop

One of only a few puppet shops left operating in Australia, this is a magical place that will be enjoyed by big kids and little kids alike. Puppet demonstrations, a private marionette collection, and impromptu puppet plays are all part of a visit here.

Goroke Silo Art 

New Zealand-born artist Geoffrey Carran painted this impressive silo, which now comes alive with giant native birds including the magpie and the kookaburra.

Little Desert Nature Playspace

If you have the kids with you, or your furry friend, this play area and park is the perfect place for a stop to stretch the legs. Why not grab a snack at the Goroke IGA or JM’s Cafe and Takeaway too? You’re nearly at the end of your three-day Silo Art Trail road trip, but there’s still one more piece of art to see before you head home.

Horsham Silo Art

The final piece of art from Sam Bates, AKA Smug, the Horsham Silo Art is titled The Yangga Dyata which means ‘Walking on Country’. The artwork tells the story of Yanggendyinanyuk, who lived a life rich in sporting and leadership achievements.

Final night in Horsham

A lively and vibrant city, Horsham is the perfect place to finish your three-day Silo Art Trail road trip. Dine out in one of the many restaurants, enjoy boutique shopping, and say goodbye in the morning with a delicious coffee and brunch at one of the many cafes available.

 

Thank you for visiting Wimmera Mallee. Be sure to come and visit us again; with our Art Lovers Trail, Nature Trail and Five-day Stay and Play itinerary, there’s still plenty to discover.