Pioneer Settlement

Situated on the picturesque banks of the Marraboor River, you can embrace the past with the feeling that you have stepped back in time at the Pioneer Settlement. The delightful tearooms provide delicious Devonshire Teas while the sounds of the music shop Pianola blend with the horse’s hooves and laughter of tourists enjoying free horse and cart rides. 

From our 1850s Pioneer Cottages to Towaninnie Homestead to our Mallee Township you can wander at leisure in a bygone world experiencing real Australian history. 

Complimentary vintage car rides are also available, proving a popular way for visitors to absorb the sights offered. Driving along the river is an impressive way to first see Towanninnie Homestead. Made from drop logs, this homestead is a typical 1880's Mallee homestead, with Mallee root fences, mud brick kitchen, and half cellar. 

Further along, past Riverside and Keats Cottage is the Lower Murray Inn with its enticing ambience. This area has been developed, in partnership with the Swan Hill Lions Club and the Friends of the Pioneer Settlement, into a family friendly picnic area. During the school holidays BBQs and children’s activities are held here also.  

With arms full of old fashioned lollies from Sparkes & Perkins General Store and Wanted Posters from The Echo Print Shop, watch the blacksmith hard at work; wander the Golden Harvest Trail, or marvel at the array of tractors in our industrial area. 

Add to your visit a cruise aboard the paddle-steamer PS Pyap; dressing up in costume for a family photgraph; a walk on Pental Island; a chat with Uncle Bruce about local indigenous culture or the Sound and Light show at night. It is easy to see why the Pioneer Settlement offers a complimentary second day in their admission pass.