Estuaries in NSW

Bermagui River is a short (8 km), wide (typically 100 to 400 m, reducing upstream) and branching tidal inlet fed by three small creeks - Coolagolite Creek, Myrtle Creek and Nutleys Creek. The main river channel meanders through alluvial flats for most of its length. The tidal limit is located at approximately the head of the main river. The mean spring tidal range at Bermagui Bridge (1 km upstream of entrance) is 0.82 m, attenuated from 1.04 m at the entrance. The approximate ruling depth over the entrance bar is 3 m below low water. The towns of Bermagui North and Bermagui are located either side of the river.

Significant Estuarine Tributaries

Population and Holiday Centres

General

• An all-weather fishing port, Bermagui is one of the best known boating harbours along this stretch of coastline - fishing, particularly game fishing, is the most important local industry and recreational activity.
• The steep northern and southern shorelines of the river in the middle reach areas are located within the Bermagui State Forest. The western areas of the Bermagui Nature Reserve are located within the catchment.
• Bermagui 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.

Bermagui River

Local Government Areas

NSW 1:25000 Map Name(s)