Yarra Falls

Yarra Falls is a former waterfall once located at the base of Queens Bridge where water cascaded through rocky ledges into the Yarra River. The site is now marked by informational plaques that help visitors understand the river's changing landscape and Melbourne's early relationship with this natural feature.

Before Queens Bridge was built in the 19th century, this waterfall formed a natural boundary between salt water and fresh water in the Yarra River. The bridge's construction transformed both the river's flow and how people could navigate the landscape.

The waterfall site holds importance for the indigenous Wurundjeri people who used it as a crossing point and meeting place for generations.

The best way to experience this site is to walk across Queens Bridge and look for the informational plaques that mark the former falls location. The area is easily accessible and works well as part of a broader walk along the Yarra River.

The waterfall once blocked boat traffic upstream and shaped where early colonial settlers chose to build their communities. This natural barrier fundamentally influenced how Melbourne's waterfront areas were developed and used.