Shoalhaven River, River system in southeastern New South Wales, Australia
The Shoalhaven River is a watercourse in southeastern Australia that flows through steep gorges and pastoral valleys before reaching the Tasman Sea near Nowra. The river cuts through varied landscapes with rocky sections and broader valley floors.
George Bass discovered and named the river mouth while exploring the Australian south coast in 1797. Later, convicts built Berrys Canal in 1822 under Hamilton Hume's direction to redirect the river and improve shipping access.
The Jerrinja people maintain deep ties to places along this watercourse, including Coolangatta Mountain and Didthul Mountain. These locations remain spiritually and culturally important to the community today.
Several spots along the water provide entry points for fishing, kayaking, and walking in the surrounding bushland. Visit outside the rainy season when water levels are lower and outdoor activities are safer and easier.
The river travels over 300 kilometers through shifting landscapes, from mountainous areas to flatter sections. This extended journey through varied terrain creates different conditions that support diverse plant and animal life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
