THE MURRAY RIVER

The Murray meanders through South Australia's heartland to the sea giving its modern day explorers unforgettable encounters with abundant wildlife, historic towns, rich vineyards and orchards.

Its flow controlled by an ingenious system of locks, once a vital commercial artery and still South Australia's lifeline, the Big River is today a playground for travelers voyaging on paddleboats and houseboats. It's big in diversity, too.

Escape the daily bustle by walking its heritage trails along the river or through the mallee country, named for the hardy tree which covers the region.

Enjoy its many water sports. Discover its romantic past in museums and restored paddleboats. Taste the year round sunshine in its fine wines and fruits. Follow its course to where it opens into lakes and flows into the Southern Ocean. Whatever your choice, the Big River, with its ever changing scenery and spacious grandeur provides the ultimate escape.

Facts and Figures

Size
The River Murray Basin of 1,057,000 square kilometres is about one-seventh of the total area of Australia and comprises three-quarters of New South Wales, over one-half of Victoria, a small portion of South Australia, and an area of Queensland greater than the total area of Victoria.

Rainfall
Of the above area, only five percent has an average rainfall in excess of 760 mm and nearly two-thirds normally supplies no water to the two trunks.

Length
The length of the Murray from its sources to its mouth is about 2560 kilometres, including 2185 kilometres below Albury. The Murray is continuously navigable for 1986 kilometres from Goolwa to Yarrawonga Weir. In this length there are thirteen weirs incorporating locks.