So much to see and do in the Meander Valley

A lazy Saturday drive through the Meander Valley always seems to lead to pleasant surprises. On one particular Saturday, we had planned to tackle one of the Valley’s well known short walks, but we never quite made it that far.

Crossing the Meander River in Deloraine, we caught a glimpse of a dragon boat on the water. A quick left turn after the bridge confirmed it: a round of the statewide Dragon Boat Regatta series was underway, hosted by the Deloraine Flames. We stopped for a while and were well entertained by the racing, the rhythm of the drums, and the energy along the riverbank. It’s the sort of event you stumble upon unexpectedly and wonder how you hadn’t seen it before.

Back on the road and heading past Red Hills, we were sidetracked again, this time by the unmistakable sound of engines at full noise. The Apex Club was running a tractor pulling competition, something we’d seen advertised over the years but never had the chance to attend. It turned out to be another great event, full of action, horsepower, and a crowd clearly loving every minute of it. The whole thing was run exceptionally well, and the commentator did a brilliant job keeping everyone engaged and lifting the atmosphere.

By this point, it was clear we weren’t going to make it to our walk. But that’s the beauty of the Meander Valley — plans can change, and you’ll still end up discovering something worthwhile. It never ceases to amaze me just how many events happen here, how many community groups step up to run them, and how much there is to see and do for both locals and visitors.

As we head into the busy season, it’s a great reminder that we, the locals, are the Meander Valley’s best ambassadors. We live here, we know the stories behind the places, and we understand what makes this region genuinely special. A simple conversation with a visitor, whether they’re staying overnight or just passing through, can shape their entire experience. Point them toward your favourite bakery, café, lookout, walking track, or artisan. Tell them which markets are worth a wander. Share a bit of local history or a hidden gem they’d never find on a map.

These small interactions don’t just help our businesses; they strengthen the character of the whole region. Visitors remember the places that make them feel welcome, and they return to the communities that make an effort. So as interstate guests arrive, let’s proudly share our backyard, encourage them to explore beyond the main roads, and show them why the Meander Valley is not just a scenic part of Tasmania, it’s a thriving, vibrant, and proudly community driven place to experience.