The Tamar River, officially kanamaluka / River Tamar, is a estuary located in northern Tasmania, Australia. Despite being named a river, the waterway is a brackish and tidal estuary over its entire length.

Etymology

The Tamar River was named after the River Tamar in South West England by Colonel William Paterson in December 1804.

Location and features

Formed by the confluence of the North Esk and South Esk rivers at , kanamaluka / River Tamar flows generally north towards its mouth at Low Head, north of the settlement George Town and into the Bass Strait via Port Dalrymple. kanamaluka / River Tamar has several minor tributaries including the Supply River. The success of this project is debated.

The Port of Launceston is now used very little in comparison to historically, and the SeaCat Tasmania ferry no longer docks at George Town. Despite this, the Tamar still is used for commercial shipping, with industries at George Town including aluminium smelters as well as for sightseeing cruises.

The last 10 kilometres of the Tamar River estuary are generally smooth and sheltered waters, depending on tidal and weather conditions.

The Clarence Point boat ramp has picnic amenities, toilets, and a pontoon on the western side.

The more wind exposed basic boat ramp at Kelso is a few kilometres further north.

George Town, a significant port town, lies on the eastern side and has amenities nearby.

The Low Head boat ramp is also on the eastern side, just past Pilot Bay, several kilometres further north.

thumb|Local Man showcasing his succulent catch of the day on the Tamar River.

See also

  • Rivers of Tasmania
  • Tamar Wetlands Important Bird Area

References

  • History of the Tamar River Conservation Area