Lake Marma Attractions
Explore History and the beauty of Lake Marma and surrounds.
Lake Marma
The shallow waterhole known as Marma Swamp, now Lake Marma, was a strong attraction to the settlement and development of Murtoa in the early 1870’s.
In 1890, the Murtoa Progress Association petitioned for the Lake Reserve to be gazetted as a Public Park and Gardens and emerged as the developer of the park. Tree planting began, with common European trees and natives. The first plantings of sugar gums were in 1889-90. From around 1886 the lake was used as the town reservoir under the control of the Wimmera Water Trust and its later successors.
With the Wimmera Mallee pipeline completed in 2010 the lake was decommissioned as a reservoir and a locally based Committee of Management appointed. Since then substantial improvements have taken place. The park and lake have become a haven for bird life and a focal point for many of the town’s recreational activities.
Lake Marma is now a popular relaxation spot with a 2km tree lined walking track, jetty, manicured lawns and seating on which to relax and enjoy the magnificent views. Nestled on the foreshore of Lake Marma, Murtoa Cabins provide serene accommodation, featuring verandahs with breathtaking sunset views. These self-contained cabins are comfortable and just a short stroll to the town centre and attractions.
Memorial Arch
The Memorial Arch in Murtoa was erected in 1921 by residents in memory of World War I Soldiers from the district. Plaques with the names of soldiers from the district who served in WWII and Vietnam have been added to the memorial. Golden cypresses were planted by Murtoa Australian Natives Association (ANA) in 1971 to mark their centenary.
It is a rare example of its type in Victoria, believed to be one of only four ‘Arches of Triumph’ in Victoria, and forms a picturesque frame to the Lake Marma Reserve.
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