Estuaries in NSW

The Bega River enters the ocean through Mogareka Inlet, a short, narrow and significantly shoaled entrance channel downstream of Hancock Bridge, the bridge being less than 0.5 km from the entrance. The tidal limit is located close to the junction of Jellat Jellat Creek and the main river, approximately 11 km upstream of the entrance (or half way to Bega). Unlike most other coastal rivers on the South Coast, the Bega River delivers fluvial sand all the way to the ocean during periods of flood. The river is navigable to the tidal limit. Water depths of up to 15 m are observed alongside steep shoreline areas downstream of the tidal limit. The river entrance is located at the northern end of Tathra Bay approximately 3 km north of the town of Tathra.

Significant Estuarine Tributaries

Population and Holiday Centres

General

• Boat launching facilities are located close to the entrance, an area of the waterway which is well known for water-skiing and sailboarding.
• The scenic quality of the estuary is one of the regions greatest assets, and is the basis for its important tourist economy.
• Flood flows can be severe; leading to complete wash away of the Tathra bridge during the 1971 flood.
• There are 23 SEPP14 listed coastal wetlands on the Bega River. Threatened shorebirds nest at the entrance to the estuary.
• Bega River has been declared a recreational fishing haven.

Estuarine Vegetation

The spatial data is reproduced from NSW Fisheries(2006/7) studies, whilst the species makeup is from the West et al.(1985). This map shows the spatial extent of the Estuarine Vegetation.

References

R.J. Williams, G. West, D. Morrison and R.G. Creese, (2006),
"Estuarine Resources of New South Wales",
prepared for the Comprehensive Coastal Assessment (DoP) by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, Port Stephens.

R.J. West, C.A. Thorogood, T.R. Walford and R.J. Williams. (1985).
"An Estuarine Inventory for New South Wales, Australia".
Fisheries Bulletin 2. Department of Agriculture, New South Wales.

Estuary Commerce

This estuary falls in the area covered by Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority.

Bega River

Local Government Areas

NSW 1:25000 Map Name(s)