The mighty Murray River as it is known, is the longest river in Australia, rising in the alps of the Great Dividing Range, and forming the border between Victoria and New South Wales before entering South Australia and finally emptying into the Indian or Southern Ocean. It is 1,476 miles (2,375km) long and passes through several lakes, some of them now quite salty due to drought and the intensive farming all along the river's length. It is significant within the mythologies of the Indigenous people of Australia.
Once a major route for trading, it is now a favourite place for recreational boating and fishing, but the river is in danger from salinity and drought. In recent years it has carried less than 40% of its natural flow. Near the river's mouth in South Australia is a beautiful lagoon area called The Coorong, a national park and sanctuary for birds, animals and fish. Nearby is Lake Alexandrina, a fresh water lake where Hindmarsh Island has salt water from the sea on one side and fresh from the lake on the other.
There are many towns and lakes to visit along the Murray River. Visiting by car or organised tour makes exploring the river easiest. Or you can navigate your way along the river by houseboat.
