Shepparton Regional Park
Shepparton Regional Park is centred on the River Red Gum forests along the Goulburn River. The 2,786ha park lies between Shepparton and Mooroopna. The Victorian Government created Shepparton Regional Park in June 2010 to protect and enhance the River Red Gum forests in Victoria.
Enjoying the Park
The forests along the Goulburn River, particularly areas close to Shepparton, are popular for camping, fishing, canoeing, bushwalking and a variety of other recreational activities.
Walking
'The Flats' Aboriginal Historic Walk
This 4.3km loop walk starts at the KidsTown carpark (between Shepparton and Mooroopna and highlights the significance of this area, known as The Flats, to the Yorta Yorta people. The inhabitance of this area by Yorta Yorta people after the historic Cummeragunja walk off in 1939 was a landmark moment in human rights struggles for indigenous people nationwide. This serene area is filled with River Red Gums, various native grasses and other special flora and fauna species.
Canoeing
Conditions for canoeing are enhanced by the summer releases of water from Lake Eildon.
Sightseeing and Picnicking
Enjoy many scenic views along the river from high river banks.
Swimming
Swimming is popular, particularly near townships where the river is easily accessible.
Fishing
This stretch of the Goulburn is fairly shallow with plenty of snags, so preferred boating is by smaller craft. Steep banks predominately line the river, with sandbars and access points dotted throughout. Informal boat ramps are scattered along the river at popular access points. Murray Cod, Golden Perch and Spiny Freshwater Crayfish are found in the river. A current Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence is required for fishing in waters south of the Murray River including the Goulburn River. A NSW Freshwater Recreation Fishing Licence is required for fishing in the Murray River.
Goulburn Heritage River
The Goulburn Heritage River was declared in 1992 in recognition of it unique natural, recreational, scenic and cultural values. It is Victoria's second largest river in terms of length, catchment area and annual flows. River flows are highly regulated by two major storages - Lake Eildon and Goulburn Weir. The Goulburn Weir was the first major irrigation scheme in Australia. Major flooding now occurs once every ten years, while before regulation, flooding would have occurred at least every two years.
River Red Gums
River Red Gum forests have high natural, cultural and economic values. These forests are coming under increasing pressure from climate change, drought and reduced water flows in the northern rivers. Protecting this precious environment relies on balancing economic and recreational activities with preserving its natural beauty and values.
River Red Gums line the Goulburn River for most of its length. These iconic trees have been known to reach 45 metres and live for more than 500 years. The trees need periods of flooding and can survive inundation for months. Their seeds are washed onto higher ground during a flood and germinate and grow before the next flood reaches them. Hollows and broken branches provide nesting for galahs, cockatoos, cockatiels and various parrots; while fallen branches provide habitat for other animals.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs and other pets are not permitted in the park.
How to get there
Shepparton Regional Park is approximately 2 hours north of Melbourne. Access to the park is from the Midland Highway between Shepparton and Maroondah.
Location
Midland Highway, Shepparton 3630 Map
Web Links
→ Shepparton Regional Park (Parks Victoria)
→ Shepparton Regional Park - Visitor Guide (PDF)