The first half of 2026 has delivered a vibrant run of events across the Southern Grampians, reinforcing our reputation as a welcoming region for community connection, culture, sport and memorable regional experiences. From major sporting fixtures and agricultural showcases to live entertainment, markets and community celebrations, activity across Hamilton, Dunkeld, Penshurst, Coleraine and our surrounding towns has drawn visitors, supported local business and showcased the character of our place.
The year opened with Australia Day gatherings across the Shire, including a community barbecue and citizenship ceremony at the Hamilton Botanic Gardens. Live music, local food and warm welcomes set the tone for a year focused on bringing people together and recognising the contributions of residents, volunteers and community groups.
Agricultural and rural traditions remained central to the calendar. February’s Hamilton Campdraft at Gazette drew riders, families and spectators for a weekend of skill, horsemanship and friendly competition. Autumn markets added colour and momentum across our towns, with Balmoral’s Easter Market filling the morning with handmade goods, fresh food and easy conversation between stallholders and visitors.
Sporting endurance and team spirit were on show in March as the Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay brought cyclists and support crews through Hamilton, creating a lively atmosphere on our streets. June continued the active theme with Serra Terror’s multi-day challenge testing teams across rugged country, while Show Off Your Ride showcased classic, custom and much-loved vehicles in a relaxed static display, with owners chatting through rebuilds, rare parts and road-trip stories as visitors snapped photos and introduced the next generation to motoring culture.
Culture and creativity also had a strong run. The Cavendish Red Gum Festival in April celebrated the region’s natural and cultural heritage with workshops, performances and local produce. The Hamilton Eisteddfod rounded out the half-year with stages full of emerging and established talent, reflecting the depth of participation and the support of families, schools and arts groups across the Shire.
Beyond these headline moments, the rhythm of weekly and monthly gatherings – Hamilton Parkrun, local farmers markets, exhibitions, live music sets and outdoor recreation activities – continued to build steady visitation across multiple towns. These regular touchpoints keep our venues busy, showcase local producers and create reasons to return throughout the year.
Collaboration has been a defining feature of the first six months. Council, tourism operators, volunteers, sporting clubs and community organisations have worked closely to strengthen event delivery, improve the visitor experience and share the benefits across accommodation, hospitality and retail. Ongoing promotion through our official channels has helped lift the profile of annual events among intrastate and interstate audiences, while on-the-ground coordination has kept logistics, safety and accessibility front of mind.
Tourism and events remain a significant contributor to the Southern Grampians economy. Our location between Melbourne and Adelaide, access via major highways and daily coach connections and the draw of the Grampians (Gariwerd) backdrop continue to make the region an easy choice for a weekend trip, a family visit or a longer stay aligned with an event.
Looking ahead to the second half of 2026, anticipation is already building for Peaks & Trails in and around Dunkeld, the Dunkeld Writer’s Festival’s themed author events with food and wine, the Hamilton Racing Cup, the Coleraine Art & Photography Show, the GPT100 Miler and the Penshurst Cup. Each brings its own audience, media interest and flow-on trade for local operators and each adds to a calendar that balances long-standing favourites with fresh programming.
Council will continue to support initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing and connection – new resident engagement activities, local business collaborations and practical event support that helps organisers deliver safe, welcoming and rewarding experiences. These efforts recognise the role events play in community pride, economic resilience and regional growth.
As we move into the remainder of 2026, the Southern Grampians remains committed to a diverse thriving events calendar that celebrates our people and places while inviting visitors from across Victoria and beyond. If your organisation is planning an event in the region, our Events Support Officer can help with local contacts, venue suggestions and practical guidance to bring your ideas to life.
