Murray Offroad Adventures: Almond Blossom and Murray River Nangiloc (Policeman’s Bend) Bus Trip
Under a gloriously cloudless winter sky, Green Connect Mildura participants recently enjoyed a memorable off-road bus tour, taking in the spectacular almond blossoms and sharing a riverside lunch on the banks of the Murray River.
The day began at the Mildura Wharf, where the experienced local tour operators greeted us. Our attention was directed to the incredible sight of hundreds of pelicans feeding on the native bony bream fish—a seasonal phenomenon triggered by frosty winter mornings.
After a short ride, the group arrived at a Red Cliffs almond property. Beneath rows of almond blossom, the group enjoyed morning tea, carefully avoiding the nearby bee boxes where pollinators were hard at work.
The next leg of the journey took us through the ever-changing landscape of the Mildura region. Our tour operators offered interesting commentary on recent flood impacts, irrigation upgrades, local wine and citrus industries, and even a paddock lined with Carlton United’s carbon offset solar panels.
Our destination was a peaceful sandbar known as Police Bend near Nangiloc, Victoria. After a gentle walk through the bush, fallen bark and gum leaves was gathered and a warming fire lit. Hearty homemade winter soups were heated over gas flames, served with freshly buttered dinner rolls. The group relaxed around the fire, enjoying steaming mugs of tea and coffee alongside hedgehog slice, boiled fruit cake, and fresh fruit.
Adding to the magic of the day was the wildlife: whistling kites soaring above, an echidna crossing our track on the way home, and a surprise encounter with “Franco,” a Groudle pup belonging to a friendly young couple fishing nearby, who generously introduced their furry friend to the group.
As we returned along the winding river track, we passed untouched sandbars, majestic river red gums—some ringbarked in the 1930s in efforts to clear land for grazing—as well as canoe trees, coolamon scars, and river bat caves.
“It is just so lovely to not have to always be the driver and pack everything we need.”
“Today has been so restorative for me. All I have done for the last 17 weeks was go between home and the hospital.”
“It was Greg’s birthday last Monday and today was a lovely day out to celebrate and do something together. We will cherish these memories made.”
“Thank you for organising and supporting us on a trip like this. There is honestly nothing we can think of that would improve the experience.”
GreenConnect: Building Community and Connection
GreenConnect is dedicated to providing meaningful, enjoyable experiences for individuals living with early to mid-stage dementia. Our activities offer participants a chance to relax, foster friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging in a safe and supportive environment.
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