Locals are being encouraged to roll out that country charm tomorrow, when Deniliquin welcomes a literal train load of visitors.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The Riverlander diesel train will chug into Deniliquin just before 8am tomorrow, with about 90 passengers on board.
They’ll have about four hours to explore the local area, before jumping on board.
Passengers will board the train in Melbourne tonight, and will be able to relax in the restored sleeper, lounge and dining cars while the train makes its way to Deniliquin.
The trip will also include stops at Rochester and Echuca, with specific plans to take in the silo art and other public art.
In its promotions of the tour, Slow Rail Journeys says the Deniliquin community is “known for its hospitality, architecture, and country charm”.
Let’s prove them right.
Locals wishing to witness the train arriving or leaving Deniliquin are reminded that safety is paramount.
Edward River Council suggests the best vantage point would be from the Hardinge St Shopping Complex car park.
Farmers’ Market on tomorrow
In a case of perfect timing for the Riverlander visitors to Deniliquin, the Deniliquin Naponda Farmers’ Market returns to the Deniliquin CBD tomorrow.
Starting about 8am and running through to lunchtime, the market starts at the corner of Cressy and Edwardes St, and continues down Cressy St toward the Deniliquin Town Hall.
Regular stallholders provide fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items and more.
Head on down and support our local producers and makers.
Proceeds from stall bookings are used by the Naponda Hospital Auxiliary to benefit users of Deniliquin Hospital.
Free art exhibition
Also opening just in time for the weekend and the Riverlander trip is a new exhibition by Kurrajong’s Studio 2710 group.
Studio 2710 was developed as a way for users of the Kurrajong disability services in Deniliquin to explore their creative talents.
Under the guidance of art tutor Bob Marcu, the artists have put together a collection of works to be showcased in the ‘Healing Through Art’ exhibition.
“Paintings present personal sensibilities and views from around Deni - some figurative paintings and also abstract,” Bob said.
Hosted by the Edward River Art Society at its Multi Arts Centre gallery in Cressy St, the exhibition is free to view.
It opens today, and runs through until July 26.
Free use of art space
While on the subject of the Edward River Art Society, it’s also offering open art sessions at the gallery each Thursday this month.
The Making Space project provides an interactive art space in the gallery. There will be gelli pads, paper punching, splashing ink and collage that members and visitors can play with and explore.
There will be guided sessions every Thursday in July from 10am to noon, and members of the public are welcome to participate.
Business Awards tickets on sale
Tickets for the Deniliquin Business Chamber’s 2025 Business Excellence Awards are now on sale.
Nominations for the awards closed at the start of this week, and are now being reviewed by the judges.
In the meantime, anyone wishing to be involved in the gala presentation night on August 16 is being encouraged to book their tickets early.
It’s renowned as a great night of celebration, and is always well attended.
The ceremony will again be hosted at the Deniliquin RSL Club. Tickets are $100 per person for chamber members, or $115 for non-members.
Go to deniliquinchamber.com.au/deniliquin-business-chamber-excellence-awards/ to book.
Artlife says ‘farewell’
One of Deniliquin’s art groups is saying “farewell”.
Artlife member Marie Ritchie said after nine years of “many, happy painting gatherings” group numbers have declined, forcing the closure of the group.
The group - which has a number of senior members - has been fairly active in its nine years, with regular exhibitions at the Alton Gallery in Echuca, RAI Canberra and locally.
The most recent exhibit was held at Deniliquin’s Peppin Heritage Centre Gallery, with 13 artworks sold.
Members have been invited to join the Edward River Art Society, with some taking up the offer.
The group’s accounts will be closed, and a small donation made to Deniliquin Can Assist.
Movie screening tonight
The Deniliquin Film Society continues its monthly screenings with the Australian 2017 film Gurrumul tonight.
Doors to the Deniliquin Town Hall, which society members promise will be “toasty warm”, open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.
To become a member of the Deniliquin Film Society, and access screenings for free, you can purchase a 12 month, six month or three month membership. Discounts apply for those aged 13-17 years, and under-13s can attend free with an adult member.
Purchase a membership online at denifilms.tidyhq.com, or arrive early on screening night to organise your membership in person.
Newspaper