Burnett River

Flowing through the heart of the Port Macquarie hinterland, the Burnett River is a serene waterway that offers a peaceful escape into nature. Its banks are lined with lush bushland and grazing pastures, creating a tranquil setting for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. This lesser-known gem is perfect for travellers seeking a quiet paddle or a scenic picnic spot away from the coastal crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayaking & Canoeing: Glide along calm stretches of the river, passing by paperbark trees and listening to the calls of kingfishers and herons. Several canoe launch points are found along the riverbanks.
• Fishing Spots: Cast a line for bass and perch in the freshwater reaches, or try your luck near the tidal zone for bream and flathead. Local anglers recommend early mornings for the best catch.
• Birdwatching: The river corridor is a haven for birdlife, including azure kingfishers, white-bellied sea eagles, and rainbow lorikeets. Bring binoculars for a rewarding experience.
• Scenic Drives & Picnic Areas: Follow the winding roads that shadow the river, stopping at informal picnic spots like the grassy banks near the Burnett River Bridge. Pack a hamper and enjoy the pastoral views.
• Walking Trails: Short bushwalking tracks along sections of the river offer a chance to stretch your legs and spot wallabies and goannas.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal for exploring the Burnett River. Spend a couple of hours kayaking or fishing in the morning, then enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch by the water. If you're short on time, a one-hour scenic drive along the river with a brief stop for photos is still worthwhile. The river is best visited during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the birdlife is most active.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie: Just 20 minutes east, this coastal town offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and the Port Macquarie Museum.
• Wauchope: A historic timber town with a charming main street, the Wauchope Railway Station, and access to the Bago Vineyards.
• Lake Innes Nature Reserve: A wetland reserve with walking trails and abundant birdlife, located south of Port Macquarie.
• Kattang Nature Reserve: Coastal heath and rainforest walks with stunning ocean views, north of Port Macquarie.
• Ellenborough Falls: One of Australia's tallest single-drop waterfalls, about an hour's drive west via the scenic Comboyne Plateau.

Please check official sources for current details.