News

Wonderland on the Murray boosts visitor economy

By Ryan Bellingham

Jan 15, 2026

Wonderland on the Murray is bringing more than creativity to town. Pictured is Miriam Ceh on Gastropodia, the Roving Snail at the Port of Echuca on Saturday, January 10. Photo by JORDAN TOWNROW

Visitors have been flocking to Wonderland on the Murray, with the Port of Echuca and surrounding businesses seeing benefits.

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Port of Echuca events and activations co-ordinator Summar Sargent said the event, which had been running since December, had been an overall success so far.

“We've had increased foot traffic coming through the port with all the activations, with a lot of people drawn initially to the sand sculptures,” she said.

“All the cafés and restaurants... everyone has reported that they’ve seen an increase in their sales.”

Marquisa D'or made an appearance at the Port of Echuca after getting lost on her way to Wonderland. She was wandering along the trail on Sunday, January 11 throughout the day, meeting curious onlookers. She is pictured with Holly Briody, 17, holding Eli Pfeiffer, 8 months, and Marlie Briody, 13. Photo by Jemma Jones

Ms Sargent said the owner of Green Pedal Cycles Echuca had also noticed a rise in bike hires, helping travellers to explore the extensive sculpture trail.

Running until March 9, the event is expected to boost visitation throughout February, which is typically a quieter period for tourism.

Locals are also being considered in the schedule, with the final sand sculpting competition on March 1 aimed at drawing in community members.

“A lot of tourists will be returning home, so it’ll be a good opportunity for our local teams to come down and test their skills,” Ms Sargent said.

Marquisa D'or showcased her 17th-century artistry along the trail. Photo by Jemma Jones

Heading into this weekend, onlookers can catch the FireLily Dance team shaking a colourful leg from 10am to 12.30pm along the sculpture trail on Friday, January 16.

Guru Dudu will also host a throwback silent disco from 11am to 2pm at the Port of Echuca pop-up park along the Murray Esplanade on Saturday, January 17.