15/02/2022
Thanks to Nicola Brookhouse, Ranger from National Parks, for sharing this latest information on the Macquarie Marshes.
Now is the best time to visit the Macquarie Marshes. There is a huge abundance of waterbirds and if you’re chasing a blue-billed duck they’re hanging out at the bird hide with their ducklings. These are the most birds you’re likely to see at the bird hide and many of the ducks and grebes have chicks. There are large flocks of ibis and egrets feeding beside the roads and if you drive slowly, you’ll undoubtedly capture some great images and see some really special sights, such as purple swamphens feeding their chicks or great crested grebes at Monkeygar Lagoon.
The Gibson Way access road has reopened and part of the road has been graded. This is the most scenic route in the area and the best way to view birdlife.
There is one major water crossing on the Gibson Way at Monkeygar Creek. The crossing is approx. 50m long and 40cm deep with a firm gravel base. It is suitable for 2wd vehicles with high clearance but 4WD is recommended. Drivers should always check the location of the air intake for their vehicle before attempting the crossing. I always recommend people drive close to the fence on the downstream (northern) side of the road to avoid any potholes.
For those that don’t have a suitable vehicle to cross the Monkeygar, the drive from Quambone to the Monkeygar is still well worth the drive, and you never know what you might see on the way back.
Visitors should also check out the 2km Burrima Boardwalk. It is accessible from the Warren-Carinda Road and is one of the best ways to experience the Marshes on foot and see the beautiful clear water flowing through the river red gum forest and view the amazing water plants up close.
Visitors can book online https://burrimamacquariemarshes.com/ or contact the Macquarie Marshes Information Centre on (02) 6847 7320 or by emailing [email protected]. Visitors are reminded that telephone reception is minimal in the Macquarie Marshes. Once you have received your entry code make sure that you keep a copy written down so that you can access it when you get to the gate. Remember to insert the 5 digit code followed by the star into the keypad, otherwise you will not be able to open the automatic gate.
Information shelters have been strategically placed throughout the Central West region, in small towns and villages and also along Gibson Way. These information panels will give you an overview of the history, flora and fauna and the cultural importance of the Macquarie Marshes.
Basic camping is available in Quambone and Carinda or contact our Information Centre at Warren for Caravan, Motel, B&B and Farmstay options.
Please also contact the Macquarie Marshes Information Centre in Warren for some basic maps on the Macquarie Marshes and further information about the local Tiger Bay Wetlands and other walks available around Warren.
