General News
20 January, 2026
River revellers and locals together on New Year's Eve
A CONSTANT stream of Loddon River campers strode across the bridge to join residents in New Year’s Eve revellry at the Newbridge Hotel.
They filled the hotel’s dining room and bar, flowing to the outdoor area in a show of country hospitality.
Publicans Michele and Matt Mizzi prepared for the big night of the year in their 167-year-old hotel with extra staff front of house and in the kitchen.
They dispensed with the usual dining menu and put on gourmet barbecued meats and salads for multiple sittings.
Vistors mingled with locals like Tim Holland and George Wyatt who were raising glasses to a successful and prosperous 2026.
Michele said the camping ground at the recreation reserve has been busy this Christmas-New Year period.
“Dozens of camp groups at any one time ... and they’re popping over the bridge to the hotel, chatting with locals,” she said,
“We love it how they lap up the friendliness of Newbridge.”
Read More: Newbridge