Gascoyne River

The Gascoyne River is the longest river in Western Australia, spanning 865 kilometres (537 mi) and offering visitors a unique experience. It is composed of three branches, each with its own distinct landscape. The river is joined by 36 tributaries and has a catchment area of 68,326 square kilometres (26,381 sq mi).

Known as an upside-down river, it flows for about 120 days of the year and lies below the dry river bed for the rest of the year. The river's aquifers serve as a significant water storage system.

The area surrounding the Gascoyne River is sparsely vegetated and used for gold mining and sheep stations. It flows through permanent pools that are valuable to both stock and native species. The river holds historical significance, with Lieutenant George Grey and his team being the first Europeans to see it in 1839. The river was named after Captain John Gascoyne RN. The region experienced a period of drought from 1909 to 1913, resulting in water supply issues for Carnarvon.

The Gascoyne River faced severe flooding in December 2010 due to record-breaking rainfall. The floods caused extensive damage in the region, with evacuation orders issued for several towns. Carnarvon was particularly affected, with homes being washed away. Emergency supplies and funds were distributed to affected residents. While no human lives were lost, approximately two thousand head of cattle perished, and the damage was estimated at A$100 million. The region still experiences consequences from the floods. In 2015, Cyclone Olwyn caused severe flooding in the Gascoyne River, further impacting the area.