As the first (and potentially only) guests of Geraldine’s Hometown Tours, we’re excited to share this review of her first attempt at tour guiding, and boy was it a doozy.
Before we knew it, we were off and away happily being swept along on a local-led adventure after a chance encounter at Junction Place. It’s not every day a famous comedian grabs the map out of your hands and insists on showing you favourite corners of her hometown.
With or without Geraldine by your side, this is the kind of day that shows you what makes Albury Wodonga so special.
Wonga Wetlands
Our first stop was Wonga Wetlands and, while we can’t claim to be birdwatchers on the same level as Geraldine, her enthusiasm was impossible not to catch.
Home to more than 170 species of birds, along with plenty of kangaroos and wallabies, Wonga Wetlands is the sort of place that encourages you to slow down and take notice. Walking beneath towering River Red Gums and alongside tranquil lagoons, it didn’t take long to understand why this is one of Geraldine’s favourite spots.
Pack a thermos, bring a few snacks and pick a patch of lawn while you wait for an Azure Kingfisher to make an appearance. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Paddling the Murray
As the day warmed up, we found ourselves on the water, drifting along a secluded stretch of the Murray River that feels worlds away from everyday life, despite being only minutes from the centre of Albury.
Our hire kayaks were waiting when we arrived and, before long, we were gently paddling downstream surrounded by birdsong, towering gum trees and had our eyes peeled for the elusive local platypus sightings.
The journey ends at Noreuil Park, a local favorite for accessing the river, where we found people enjoying the river -swimming, picnicking beneath shady trees and settling in for a leisurely drink at River Deck Café. We were tempted to stay all afternoon, but Geraldine assured us there was more to see.
Let’s Roll
Next up was Albury’s impressive skate park.
While “skater girl” might not be the first phrase that comes to mind when describing Geraldine, she surprised us with a few cheeky moves on the skateboard while showing off one of Australia’s largest outdoor skate parks. A special stop with a personal connection for Geraldine given her sister played a role in the parks design.
Watching riders tackle the world class bowls, ramps and street features was entertainment in itself, but seeing Gary ‘Kick Phillip’ aka attempt a kickflip was the icing on the cake.
Connect with Country
As someone deeply connected to the region, Geraldine was passionate about introducing us to some of the locals, especially local artist, educator and guide Aunty Ruth from Giilangyaldhaanygalang, Wiradjuri Storytellers. We set off along the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, where culture, art and Country come together along the banks of the Murray River.
Through stories of totem animals, connection and place, she brought the landscape to life and standing beside Aunty Ruth at her own work, Bogong Moth Migration, was a special privilege.
Dotted along the wide accessible path, the walk’s 15 sculptures each shared their own story, and the river and lagoons on either side of the path made for incredible wildlife spotting and a very relaxing walk.
A Sunset Worth Lingering For
No local tour would be complete without good food, and thankfully Geraldine took this responsibility seriously.
As the sky shifted through shades of gold, pink and orange, we debated the foodie options of Dean Street, Junction Place and several other local favourites before landing at Gateway Island.
Home to Murray Towns Brewing Co. and a collection of riverside dining experiences, it felt like the perfect place to end the day. Good food, local flavours and stories shared around the table. Exactly how a day exploring Albury Wodonga should finish.
Final Verdict
By the end of the day, what started as an unexpected encounter, felt more like being shown around by an old friend.
Growing up on the Murray, Geraldine knows this region inside out. Her itinerary combined everything she loves about home: natural beauty, wildlife, culture, great food and of course plenty of laughs.
Do we recommend Geraldine’s Hometown Tours? Absolutely!
While Geraldine might not always be on call to lead you herself, it’s certainly worth following in her footsteps and discover for yourself exactly why Albury Wodonga is a-must-visit destination for that natural connection.