Tourism boom to hit Mildura-Wentworth region, as border community readies to host world-class art installation

Tourism boom to hit Mildura-Wentworth region, as border community readies to host world-class art installation
By Alexandra Coulton


Australia’s unique Mildura-Wentworth region will be cast into the spotlight, with an enlightening new experience designed by world-famous artist Bruce Munro coming to the border cities.

Mildura Regional Development has partnered with a global leader in leisure and entertainment experiences, Pico Play, to launch Light/State – an immersive exhibition across two states with two site-specific light installations.

Opening in Spring 2023, Light/State is expected to span across at least two years and has the potential to put the region on the map by increasing overnight visitation more than 20 per cent, with an additional 800,000 visitors.

As a result, the region’s visitor economy is expected to grow by more than $130 million per year, promoting local employment and significant development to the accommodation, hospitality, and retail sectors.

The Mildura-Wentworth region represents a series of harmonious clashes – where the mighty Murry River meets Australia’s Red Centre; where tens of thousands of years of history meet contemporary urban culture; where three states intersect.

Red cliffs of the Murray River, Mildura (image source: iStock/zetter)

Surrounded by wineries and fruit farms, Mildura is the perfect base for exploring the region, from South Australia’s rich Murry Riverland district to the meeting of the Murry and the Darling rivers in Wentworth and the World-Heritage-listed Mungo National Park.

Munro, who created Uluru’s world-famous Field of Light installation, said the two works explore how the regions natural environment interacts with those who visit and live in the area.

“How people feel when they see my work is very important to me,” he said.

“I really want people to leave with a lighter heart and sense of positivity. We need good experiences – ones that make us realise we are not the most important thing in the world but part of the world.”

The first sculpture is an exciting collision of technology, light and sound that emulates a desert symphony nestled in a natural amphitheatre. Visitors will first view the installation from an elevated escarpment before descending to walk through the installation and become part of the experience.

The second sculpture provides a stark contrast by inviting quiet contemplation and appreciation. Using a gentle massed light installation to amplify the tranquil beauty of the region’s waterways, this installation is designed to encourage meditation and reflection.

The project has the potential to put the Mildura-Wentworth region – which already spans Australia’s three most popular states – on the radar of discerning tourists across Australia and the world.

“Light/State is born from the spirit of cooperation; we have two great states working together to create this wonderful experience for people to visit and enjoy,” said Brett Millington, CEO of Mildura Regional Development.

According to Millington, a once-in-a-generation opportunity exists for investors, operators, and stakeholders to partner on this exciting project.

Expressions of interest are now open for both public and private investors, operators across the events, tourism and attractions industry, and key stakeholders across the tourism, government and attractions sectors.

If this opportunity appeals to you, register your interest HERE.

All necessary EOI documentation must be submitted by Friday 19 November, and shortlisted parties will be notified in December.

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