Navigating the Australian Rivers

Murray River

The Murray River is the largest river of Australia, and is sometimes called the “Mighty Murray.” It begins in the Australian Alps, and then goes through the plains, and ends up in Lake Alexandria. This river forms the border between New South Wales and Victoria. Its waters eventually empty into the Indian Ocean. Some cities along this river include Swan Hill, Mildura, Renmark and Murrary Bridge. Some of the life in the river includes silver perch, golden perch, Murray River Crayfish and eel-tailed catfish.

Darling River

The Darling River’s source is in New South Wales, at the confluence of the Culgoa and Barwon Rivers. It used to be a major route of transportation in the late 19^th century. The water is very polluted toddy, due to runoff from pesticides and drought. The Murray River and the Darling River make up a basin that measures over a million square kilometers, which is about 15% of the land of Australia. Some cities along the Darling River include Bourke, Louth, Tilpa and Wilcannia.

Click here to read what Henry Lawson had to say about the Darling River.

The Snowy River

The Snowy River originates in the Australian Alps, in New South Wales, and then empties into the ocean in eastern Victoria. It also passes through the Snowy River National Park. Australians irrigate much of this water and also use it for hydro electrical power. Only about half of it reaches the ocean. There are four waterfalls on the snowy river, and it flows through several lakes. Very few towns are situated on the Snowy River. It’s a beautiful river which is the source of much Australian folklore. The Snowy River is also a recreational place where people go for swimming, camping and canoeing.

The Murrumbidgee

The Murrumbidgee translates as “big water” in the local Aboriginal language. It goes from New South Wales, and it reaches the Murray River. It passes through one of the major farming areas, the Riverina region, so it is an important source of water irrigation. Some towns on the river include Tharwa, Jugiong, Wagga Wagga and Hay. It is also associated with many swamps and wetlands. Along the river, you will find many River Oaks and Black Citrus Pines. The water is home to fish like Murray Crayfish, Macquarie Perch and Trout Cod. Many Australians go here to picnic, swim, fish, canoe and camp.