Like many rural towns, Dimboola has faced recent challenges with social isolation, economic uncertainty and the lingering impacts of COVID, while the rising cost of living has meant fewer opportunities to travel or take part in social activities. These challenges can often result in feelings of loneliness and disconnection, particularly in smaller, more remote communities.
In recent years, Dimboola has become host to the annual Wimmera Steampunk Festival – a celebration of the weird and wonderful. People of the Wimmera and beyond come together through creativity, festivities and an appreciation of 19th century aesthetics.
With a $5,000 Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grant, Dimboola Art Inc transformed the town’s Tower Park into a magical centrepiece for the 2025 event. Themed The Carnival of Peculiarities, it once again brought the community together in a burst of creativity connection – proving that even small towns can deliver world-class cultural experiences.
The Tower Park Wonderland was designed to spark imagination and was inspired by the magic of a 19th century carnival. It featured a giant Luna Park-inspired entrance, whimsical red and white striped tents, a mirror maze illuminated by 24 sabre-like lights and immersive spaces for families to explore together.
The wider festival is a vibrant, inclusive event involving schools, community groups, artists, performers and volunteers from across the Wimmera. It offers something for everyone, from parades and circus acts to live music, fire performances, markets and costume competitions. All the while promoting the town as a dynamic, welcoming place to visit and live long-term.
The 2025 theme took on a deeper meaning after the community experienced a major fire evacuation in January earlier this year. The opening parade honoured local CFA volunteers, featuring firefighters, a vintage fire truck and multicultural dancers in a moving tribute that highlighted the town’s gratitude for their bravery.
The impact of the Tower Park Wonderland and the broader Festival was felt across the community. People were able to come together, set aside daily worries and immerse themselves in an alternate world – even if just for a night. Organisers reflected that “no amount of therapy” could have achieved the euphoria on people’s faces at the festival.
It has also played a key role in rebranding Dimboola as the Steampunk Capital of Victoria, giving the town a unique cultural identity that attracts visitors from far and wide. The 2024 festival was estimated to have generated $1.6 million for the local economy.
Beyond the numbers, this project shows what’s possible when a community dreams big and works together. The installation’s surreal design and playful spirit gave residents pride in their town and showed visitors that even small communities can deliver extraordinary creative experiences.
