Our waterways
Our Rivers - The Goulburn and Broken Rivers
The Goulburn and Broken River systems are key assets of the Greater Shepparton region, and Shepparton is fortunate to be sited near the confluence of these two important rivers. These rivers flow into the Murray River and consequently form part of the Murray Darling Basin. These rivers and surrounds contribute to our local environment by providing vital habitat for wildlife, water for townships and agricultural irrigation, and contribute to our cultural wellbeing by providing recreational opportunities such as bushwalking, fishing and other outdoor activities.
Vegetation along the rivers is predominately Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) with understories comprising grasses, wattles and native peas. Wildlife such as squirrel, sugar and feather-tailed gliders, ringtail and brushtail possums, native fish including Murray Cod, Murray perch and silver perch, platypus, turtles, frogs, echidnas, bats, eastern grey kangaroos, black wallabies, yellow footed antechinus, birds and rakali (native otter) all inhabit our river environs.
Our Wetlands
Greater Shepparton has a number of natural and constructed wetlands that provide habitat for wildlife, and are a great location to view native birdlife. In addition to the habitat they provide, wetlands perform an important water quality role, as they hold water allowing sediments and pollutants to drop out of the water. Our wetlands also play an important role in flood mitigation, and are key sites for many migratory bird species that pass through our region.
Our natural wetlands include:
- Gemmill Swamp in Mooroopna
- Reedy Swamp north of Shepparton
- Doctors Swamp near Murchison
- Loch Garry near Bunbartha
Our constructed wetlands include:
- Cussen Park and Lake Bartlett in Tatura
- Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton
- Sevens Creeks wetland
- Kialla Lakes system south of Shepparton
The Lower Goulburn National Park
The Lower Goulburn National Park was listed in 2010 and encompasses the Goulburn River downstream from Shepparton through to the Murray River near Echuca. The park is an important wildlife corridor, and provides the opportunity for visitors to explore through canoeing, swimming and fishing. For further information, visit the Parks Victoria website.