Fields of Gold: Canola Trail seen from space as crops burst to life

THE canola may have flowered later than usual this year, but the wait has been worth it.

After a dry and delayed start to the season, the Canola Trail has erupted in colour and Junee is stealing the spotlight, with the Shire home to one of the largest crops in New South Wales.

Stretching an incredible 10 kilometres along Goldfields Way at Erin Vale, the impressive canola crop carpets approximately 40 square kilometres of farmland, an agricultural and visual marvel that’s as breathtaking from the roadside as it is from the sky.

From the ground, it’s a sea of yellow. From space, it’s a golden landmark.

A glimpse of golden giant at Erin Vale, as seen from Goldfields Way between Junee and Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

The Sentinel‑2 satellite recently captured the crop in stunning clarity, offering a rare glimpse of what is arguably the jewel in the crown of this year’s Canola Trail.

Located between Junee and Temora, this field isn’t just one of the largest on the Trail — it’s among the largest in all of New South Wales, with its vibrant patchwork of yellow forming a living quilt that stretches to the horizon.

Temora (top centre); Junee (bottom centre); Coolamon (bottom left) | Source: Sentinel-2

The canola crop at Erin Vale covers approximately 40 square kilometres | Source: Sentinel-2 (Tuesday, September 23, 2025)

From Seed to Spectacle

The Erin Vale crop lies at the heart of the Canola Trail, a seasonal drive that winds through the picturesque farming shires of Coolamon, Temora and Junee — an area responsible for producing nearly a third of all canola grown in New South Wales.

Each spring, the Trail transforms into a living postcard, drawing thousands of visitors in search of vibrant photo opportunities, fresh country air, and a deeper appreciation for Australia’s agricultural backbone.

A close up of Junee Shire | Source: Sentinel-2 (Tuesday, September 23, 2025)

While the season got off to a slow start due to drier conditions, the crops have caught up quickly and are now glowing under sunny spring skies.

Though plant height was slightly reduced due to early season dryness, flowering has been strong and sustained.

For both tourists and locals, the Trail offers more than a pretty backdrop — it’s a chance to experience first-hand where much of the nation’s oilseed crop is grown, and to meet the people whose livelihoods depend on it.

A close up of Temora Shire | Source: Sentinel-2

A close up of Coolamon Shire | Source: Sentinel-2 (Tuesday, September 23, 2025)

Walk the Yellow Bloom Road

Until now, canola fields could only be admired from afar. But this year, for the first time ever, visitors can go beyond the fence with the launch of Yellow Bloom Road in Temora.

A joint initiative by Temora Shire Council and FarmLink, the attraction offers a rare walk-through experience inside a commercial canola crop without stepping onto private farmland.

Yellow Bloom Road, Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

Yellow Bloom Road, Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

Located beside Lake Centenary at 420 Goldfields Way, the field has been purpose-designed with walking tracks cut through the crop, giving visitors a safe and scenic space to stroll, photograph and immerse themselves in the bloom.

Open until October 6, Yellow Bloom Road is already a highlight of this year’s trail, offering tourists and families a respectful and visually stunning way to connect with the season.

Though the flowers are now more than 50% in bloom, the plants are slightly shorter than usual, again due to the dry start, but the colour and coverage remain nothing short of spectacular.

Yellow Bloom Road, Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

Yellow Bloom Road, Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

More Than Just a Pretty Picture

While the Canola Trail is a visual feast, it also delivers a vital boost to the local economy.

For many towns across the Riverina, spring is more than a season, it’s a lifeline.

Each year, the influx of visitors brings increased trade for local cafés, gift shops, galleries, pubs and accommodation providers throughout Coolamon, Temora and Junee.

Yellow Bloom Road, Temora | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

As one of rural Australia’s most iconic seasonal events, the Canola Trail reflects the spirit of the Riverina itself: resilient, hardworking and full of life.

From the artisan cheesemakers of Coolamon to the heritage rail charm of Junee and the aviation history of Temora, each stop along the Trail has its own story to tell — each made even more magical when framed by golden fields.

Whether you’re chasing the perfect Instagram shot, planning a country weekend escape, or simply wanting to soak in the yellow, this year’s bloom is one you’ll never forget.

The Golden Rule

As the Trail’s popularity grows, so too does the need for respect.

Canola crops are private property, and the product of months of hard work, risk and resilience. Entering paddocks, even for a quick photo, is not just damaging, it’s illegal, and could result in fines of up to $12,000.

Authorities and growers are urging all visitors to follow these simple rules:

• Do not cross fences or gates, even if they’re open.
• Respect biosecurity to avoid bringing in pests or diseases.
• Park responsibly, staying off the road and out of cropping zones.
• Flying a drone? Get permission first. Farms are private property.

A single misstep can undo an entire season’s work. Let’s keep the Canola Trail beautiful and respectful for everyone.

When & Where to Visit

The best time to catch peak bloom is now, with the Canola Trail typically running through early to mid-October.

Get your camera ready, hit the road, and let the Riverina shine.

More info: www.canolatrail.com.au