Optimism flows as Darling River rises

The Darling River inundated low lying land when it reached a 7 metre peak this week. Photo TWH

The Darling River is the lifeblood of Bourke and the backdrop to the daily life of everyone living in the Bourke community.

When the Darling River is full and flowing, so are the spirits of the people who live right across the catchment area of this mighty river system, and there is a tangible sense of optimism in the air.

This week, the height of the Darling River was hovering around seven metres, just enough to trigger a temporary hold on Jandra Paddleboat cruises for two weeks until the levels drop enough to allow the boat to pass under the North Bourke bridge. But a short stay of proceedings on the Jandra was a small price to pay for a healthy river coming into summer, according to Bourke Shire Council General Manager Leonie Brown.

“It’s great news for Bourke,” Mrs Brown said. “We’ve had a fantastic flush through the system, which means we have healthy conditions for fish breeding and for birdlife. […]

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