Perth, located in western Australia, has some of the world’s most beautiful and famous rivers. As you explore this place, you will fall in love with Mother Nature. You will start loving the natural world and the beauty it contains.

You will also encounter a good amount of wildlife. Australia has some of the rarest species of land and aquatic animals. The rivers in Perth act as a jewel in the crown of Australia’s rich biodiversity.

Rivers in Perth:

This article will take you through a list of seven rivers that add to the charm of the city of Perth. So, do read till the end and find the best one of these in case you want to pay a visit.

1. Swan River 

Swan River is known as Perth’s favourite playground in the Southwestern region of Australia. It is the most well-known river in this region. With a sizeable grass-covered area and graceful water flow, it is a go-to picnic spot for the people of Perth.

Having a dual and multipurpose pathway, the place is perfect for walking, skating and playing various outdoor games. Besides being an excellent place for hangouts, it is also home to many land and marine animals. Some fish specific to Swan River are partial flathead, dusky flathead, flathead, grunter, and giant herring.

The Swan River is a trading centre of charms and affordable things. It was named after a Dutch tourist who came to visit this place. When he saw the river, he noticed many black swans swimming. So, the river was named “Swan River.”

2. Avon River

The Avon River is one of the three major tributaries of the Swan River. It finds its way through the lush valleys of western Australia.  It spreads over to most of Western Australia’s wheat-growing belt and reaches some nearly dry areas too. Almost thirty tributaries flow into the Avon River, including the rivers like Dale River, Mackie River etc.

The river got its name from its literal description. The word “Avon” itself means a river. Therefore, many rivers have the same or similar names as this one. The River is home to aquatic species like eels, carbs and red fins.

It is famous for the international annual white water rafting competition it hosts every year. The competition is named Bell’s Rapid and is known for testing the best white rafters—the place is an hour’s drive from Perth.

3. Ord River

With a drainage area of 50,000 sq km and 650 km length, the Ord River is one of the major rivers of western Australia. It starts from Halls Creek and flows through the artificial water storage areas of Argyle and Kununurra Lake. It is located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, the river empties in the Cambridge Gulf.

Named after Sir Harry Ord, the governor of Western Australia, the Ord River project was launched to solve the problem of seasonal draining. Also, it was used to impound water for irrigation during drought.

The Ord River Dam was set up in the year 1972. Since then, the place has evolved to be a vast and beneficial ecosystem for many species. It is home to over 75 bird species. The site is the breeding ground for many rare bird species.

The Ord River is home to a rather dangerous species of mammals. It is the home of the Australian crocodiles and sea eagles. The presence of these beings is what makes it hazardous for swimming. After that, the Argyle and Kununurra lakes gained international importance.

4. Blackwood River

The Blackwood River is the longest in southwestern Australia. It flows 400km from Australia’s Wheatbelt, passing through the Blackwood Valley and ending in Augusta’s Hardy inlet. The river’s sight is eye-catching, and people often like to click pictures of its beautiful view.

78% of the river’s basin is dedicated to agriculture. It is the source of irrigation for most of the cereal production in that region. Therefore, it is the most significant river in the state.

The Sues bridge campground, located near the river, provides a good swimming spot for visitors. They can also enjoy canoes and kayaks in this region. This place is good for camping and hangouts.

Some indigenous species of this river are Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Freshwater cobbler, and Red Fin perch.

5. Fortescue River

The Fortescue River is located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. It starts from the Ophthalmia Range and passes the Great Northern Highway. It has 24 tributaries, including Western Creek, Warrawanda Creek, Kalgan Creek etc.

The river is home to many fish species like Mangrove Jack, Flathead, and the odd Baramoudi. Many of these species are commonly found in the warmer months.

It is a tropical oasis lying within the Millstream Chichester National Park. It also supports a significant amount of flora and provides a good tourist attraction.

6. Frankland River

The Frankland River is situated in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. It is named after George Frankland, the surveyor General of Vandieman’s land, in 1829. The river starts below Torrolup Hill and flows into the Walpole and Normalup inlet.

It is best for kayaking, but since it is a large river, one has to take all the safety measures while stepping into it.

Frankland River is one of the few wild rivers in Australia. The people living near it do not allow it to be dammed. Therefore, its beauty and heritage are best preserved in its natural form. The black bream fish is one species that has majorly inhabited this river and is somewhat exclusive to it. People often come here to fish these black bream fishes, amongst other species.

7. Canning River

The Canning River is situated in the inner suburbs of Perth City. It rises near the North Bannister, around 100 km from Perth and eventually mixes with the Swan River apple cross.

The most popular spot to enjoy this river’s beauty and natural essence is the Canning River Regional Park, which is situated at a 20-minute from Perth City.

The place is good for canoeing and Kayaking and is a go-to place for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of nature.

The freshwater cobbler and night fish are exclusively restricted to the mainstream region of the Canning River. Also, many other fish species, as well as the subsidiary bird species, live in and near the tributaries of this river.

FAQs

• Which river was formerly called the Perth River?

The Swan River, the most famous in Perth, was formerly called the Perth River. Only during the 1900s, when a Dutch tourist saw beautiful black swans near its shore, was its name changed to the “swan river.

• What problems did the Swan River face?

The Swan River has faced many problems related to a lack of transportation and administration in its surrounding area. The Swan River colony also met a lot of agricultural and settlement-related issues.

Conclusion

As we can see, many great and beautiful rivers are in western Australia. Each one of these rivers takes you through a different experience. From streaming waters to a calm home of the black swans, you name it, they have it.

If you are looking for a place close to nature, Perth is the best for you. The rivers in and near Perth allow you to experience the joyful activities of camping, kayaking, swimming, etc. The best part is you don’t need to spend large amounts of money. All you need is a love for nature and adventures. If you have these things, you can explore these amazing rivers.

Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by Maity