The Truth About Canberra's Rivers: There's No "Canberra River"

Setting the Record Straight on Canberra's Waterways

Despite common misconceptions, there is no river actually named the "Canberra River." Australia's capital city sits along the Molonglo River, which flows through the heart of Canberra before joining the Murrumbidgee River.

The Molonglo River: Canberra's True Waterway

The Molonglo River runs for approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) through the Australian Capital Territory and into New South Wales. It was dammed in 1963 to create Lake Burley Griffin, the iconic centerpiece of Canberra's urban design. The lake serves as both a recreational hub and a key element of Walter Burley Griffin's original city plan.

Water Supply for the Capital

Canberra's primary water supply comes from three catchment areas:

• Cotter River catchment - Provides about 60% of the city's water via three dams (Corin, Bendora, Cotter)
• Googong Dam on the Queanbeyan River - Supplies about 30%
• Murrumbidgee River - Supplementary supply during drought

Ecological Significance

The Molonglo and Murrumbidgee river systems support diverse ecosystems including platypus, native fish species (Macquarie perch, Murray cod), and numerous waterbirds. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining environmental flows and protecting riparian vegetation.

Recreational Opportunities

While swimming isn't permitted in Lake Burley Griffin due to water quality concerns, the lake and surrounding rivers offer kayaking, sailing, rowing, fishing (with license), and extensive lakeside cycling and walking paths.