The Mildura and Wentworth region has come alive with the opening of Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) – a breathtaking new installation by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro.
This immersive experience will fuse light, sound and landscape in a way never seen before, positioning the region as a must-visit cultural destination this autumn. Designed as a complementary, two‑night experience, Trail of Lights and Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra together showcase the diversity and beauty of the Murray–Darling region after dark.
Experienced across consecutive nights, the pair strengthens the region’s growing reputation for world‑class, destination‑defining light installations, offering visitors a uniquely multi‑landscape adventure through art, nature and storytelling.
Set against the ancient Perry Sandhills near the junction of the Murray and Darling rivers, FOSO is a striking new outback light and sound experience. Eighty illuminated Hills Hoists form a glowing orchestral pit, each representing an instrument in a luminous open‑air symphony.
As sunset deepens across the dunes, fibre‑optic light awakens the installation and an original score by Emmy Award–winning composer Nainita Desai fills the landscape. The result is a powerful sensory journey where sound and light converge in one of Australia’s most quietly spectacular settings.
Trail of Lights – a transcendent experience, allows connection with both the artwork and the natural environment. Through the interplay of 12,500 firefly lights, Gone Fishing sculptures, and its surrounding landscape, Munro invites contemplation and reflection, creating a space for introspection and wonder. As night falls, this spectacle turns Lock Island into a must visit destination where art and nature come alive in a whole new way
Together, Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra and Trail of Lights provide the perfect reason for visitors to plan a regional escape over several nights, with both installations complementing Mildura and Wentworth’s renowned food and wine scene, Murray-Darling River experiences and growing arts and culture offering.
“FOSO is an exciting opportunity to put the Wentworth and Mildura region firmly on the map for experience-led travel,” said Wentworth Mayor Daniel Linklater.
“Through our collaboration with Mildura Rural City Council, together with the Trail of Lights, we’re creating new reasons to visit and encourage people to stay longer, explore more and experience the region more deeply.”
On why he chose Mildura and Wentworth for his newest art instalments, Bruce noted: “We live in a world where time has lost its value and are often influenced to visit places recommended by others rather than through self-discovery,” he said.
“Mildura and Wentworth, like many regional towns and cities, have their own unique stories to tell. They are places where you will experience authentic Australia. I could list a bucket full of reasons to visit these riverside towns but simply said I just recommend a visit.”
“The joy of travel is to discover places and create one’s own cerebral patchwork quilt of memories. Be assured there will be plenty…” said Mr Munro.
The artwork is expected to attract both intrastate and interstate visitors, boosting local tourism and supporting regional businesses. Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra is set to join Trail of Lights in becoming a key attraction, strengthening the appeal of the region as a year-round tourism destination.
For more information about Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra and Trail of Lights, visit: www.mildura.com for details.
Images: Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra – photo by Serena Munro | Trail of Lights – photo by Serena Munro