Dights Falls

Dights Falls is a natural rapid and weir where the Yarra River meets Merri Creek, formed by volcanic basalt rock that is about 800,000 years old alongside older sedimentary stone. The water flows over these layered geological formations at the junction of these two waterways.

In 1839, John Dight built a water-powered mill at the falls, making it one of Melbourne's first industrial sites. The mill operated for decades before fire destroyed it in the early 1900s.

The Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation gathered here to fish and meet before European settlement arrived in the region. This location served as a significant gathering place for communities long before modern times.

The site has walking trails on both sides of the river and can be reached on foot, by bike, car, or canoe, while powered boats are not allowed here. Visitors should know this river section is open to most non-motorized activities.

The north side holds graptolite fossils in sandstone, a sign of its geological importance. These fossils are over 400 million years old and reveal the ancient history of the site.

Operator: Parks Victoria

Website: https://parkweb.vic.gov.au

GPS coordinates: -37.79716,145.00109

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42