Book review: The Wimmera - A journey through Western Victoria

Back in 2020, a team of photojournalists released a book simply titled, The Mallee, which beautifully captured the people and places within this region of north-west Victoria. We were so impressed by the book we shared excerpts of it in our Summer 2020 edition of 4X4 Australia magazine.

That same team has shifted its focus south of the Mallee for its latest hardcover book, The Wimmera, and the photographers have raised the bar even higher with this stunning publication.

The Wimmera lies south of the Mallee to the central western regions in the south, and it runs between the Goldfields in the east to the South Australian border in the west. Primarily farming country, the Wimmera is a haven for travellers who will be enchanted by its rich history.

The book whets your appetite for travel, visiting towns long forgotten since their heyday yet still offering plenty for the visitor. The photographers beautifully capture the places and people that call the Wimmera home; the ageing architecture, welcoming country pubs, friendly faces, and natural scenery.

Travelling from town to town, the book often follows old railway routes, revealing what made the places what they once were and what’s changed in modern times. In some cases, a return to the bush, as people leave the cities to create a better life.

While not a real four-wheel drive destination or off-road trek on its own, the Wimmera is still worthy of a visit and stay, either as your destination or on your way to more epic adventures.

“The Wimmera is a land full of contrasts,” said author Adam McNicol. “From dryland scrub in the north to stately trees and rolling green hills in the south.

“On our travels we learned about the region’s indigenous history, including the celebrated cricket team that toured England in the 1860s. We met fifth and sixth generation farmers and so many people who are proud to call the Wimmera home.”

The book has us wanting to get out to explore the Wimmera and western Victoria again, and we’re sure it will have the same effect on you.

The Wimmera – A journey through western Victoria is a 243-page hardcover book selling for $59.99 from Ten Bag Press, where you’ll also find The Mallee book. The two books are also available as a boxed set and will make an awesome Christmas gift for anyone who enjoys travel, photography and great yarns.

AVAILABLE FROM: www.tenbagpress.com.au
RRP: $59.99
WHAT WE SAY: A beautifully curated book that urges you to get out and explore the region.