The Brisbane River – The Heart of Brisbane
Brisbane River runs through the heart of Queensland’s capital city. Sixteen major bridges span its waters while CityCat and KittyCat ferry services operate along its inner-city reaches.
Take a kayak tour down the tidal river with Riverlife Adventure Centre, admiring towering skyscrapers and waterfront mansions as you go. Try their Twilight Tour for an evening boat tour that culminates with drinks and wine as the sun goes down.
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History
The Brisbane River is a tidal river which flows south into Moreton Bay on the Coral Sea. John Oxley named the river after Governor Sir Thomas Brisbane of New South Wales in 1823; before this date, Turrbal people had resided on its shores for up to 40,000 years prior to this naming event.
Early settlers were mesmerised by the natural beauty, abundant fisheries and lush vegetation of Brisbane River Valley. With European settlement came major changes as large areas were cleared for agriculture or residential purposes.
Research has demonstrated that the Brisbane River’s murky brown color results from mixing of salt water with freshwater. By planting Crinum pedunculatum (a perennial plant), researchers have shown it may be possible to reduce turbidity and restore clarity of its waters. It served as an important transport route before rail links between Brisbane and Ipswich were built in 1875.
Environment
The Brisbane River has several major tributaries, such as Breakfast Creek, Moggill Creek and Stanley River on its northern bank; Bulimba Creek Oxley Creek Norman Creek Bremer River Lockyer Creek on its southern bank; Black Snake Creek Cooyar Creek Cressbrook Goodna Pullen Pullen Wolston Creek among others also feed into it.
Early non-Indigenous explorers reported that rainforest fringed the Brisbane River and its major tributaries in wider floodplains, while melaleuca woodlands covered low lying coastal areas. Since then, however, several changes have taken place, some predating the arrival of incomers.
Brisbane river experts warn of declining water quality, stating that hard policy decisions must be made if ecological health of the Brisbane River is to be preserved. Healthy Land and Water principal scientist Paul Maxwell reports nitrogen and phosphorus levels have approached Queensland’s gazette water quality guidelines in its upper reaches; this means less oxygen in the water, more algae and increased sediment due to flooding.
Activities
The Brisbane River offers many exciting water-based experiences. Choose to cruise on one of its modern boats or classic gondolas, kayak, take sailing lessons, or challenge yourself by climbing Kangaroo Point Cliffs (Riverlife organises this) before abseiling down them – you’re bound to have an adventure-filled time on its shores!
There are also plenty of activities that require getting your hands dirty, from learning from local chefs at Eat Street Markets to exploring the city sights by bike – either renting one from one of many vendors or joining River City Cruises.
Gather up the crew and find a spot along the riverbank for a picnic, spreading out your blanket and sipping wine or beer while admiring the glittering skyline and historic buildings float past. Or watch live music at Riverstage in City Botanic Gardens; concerts featuring local artists or international bands could also provide entertainment!
Accommodation
Brisbane River offers an array of accommodations within walking distance, ranging from luxurious hotels to apartments with city views. Experience South Bank for an exciting, modern entertainment district or relax along its banks at Kangaroo Point for a more serene riverfront stay.
A top-tier choice, The Star Grand provides luxurious rooms and suites with spectacular river and skyline views, fine dining experiences and rooftop pool experiences, or simply relaxation within its luxurious environs.
Oaks Brisbane River City Suites provide comfortable one- and two-bedroom suites equipped with full kitchens and laundry services – ideal for short or extended stays.
The five-star W Brisbane is another top pick, known for its spectacular river views. Enjoy relaxing on one of their loungers at the stylish Living Room Bar or taking a dip in their Wet Deck pool for breathtaking panoramas.
