Barwon River
Highlights
Overview
The Barwon River winds through Walgett, offering a true taste of Outback New South Wales. This mighty waterway, part of the Murray–Darling Basin, is a lifeline for the region and a favourite spot for locals and travellers alike.
Fishing enthusiasts love casting a line for yellow belly, Murray cod, and European carp. The river's quiet banks provide plenty of space to settle in and enjoy a relaxing day by the water. For paddlers, the Barwon is a paradise. Its gentle stretches and sweeping curves create the perfect backdrop for kayaking and canoeing adventures.
The name "barwon" is derived from the Australian Aboriginal words of barwum or bawon, meaning great, wide, awful river of muddy water; and also baawan, a Ngiyambaa name for both the Barwon and Darling rivers. Stories, traditions, and livelihoods remain closely connected to its flows and tributaries.
Easy access points make it simple to explore. Boat ramps at Walgett and Collarenebri provide entry for fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes. Visitors can enjoy the simple pleasure of being on the water, watching birdlife, and experiencing the river at their own pace.
The Barwon River in Walgett is more than just a waterway. It's a place to fish, paddle, connect, and discover the spirit of the Outback.