Estuaries in NSW

An exception to the region's lack of accessible and sheltered estuaries, Jervis Bay provides an extensive area of semi-sheltered waterway protected by Beecroft Peninsula to the north and Cape St George to the south. The waterway is fed by numerous creeks, the largest of which are Currambene Creek, which enters immediately north of Huskisson, and Cararma Creek, which drains about 3 km² of wetland between Lake Woolumboola and Jervis Bay. The towns of Callala Bay, Callala Beach, Huskisson and Vincentia are located along the western shore. Jervis Bay Marine Park has now been created to ensure that various habitats within the bay are adequately protected.

Significant Estuarine Tributaries

Population and Holiday Centres

General

• A natural deep water harbour that boasts exceptional water clarity and attractive, unspoilt foreshores - the region's major recreational attractions are its renowned white beaches and its high quality scuba diving sites.
• Third largest estuarine waterway area in NSW that supports 9 km² of seagrass meadows.
• Largest mollusc producer in NSW (172 t/yr).
• Jervis Bay Marine Park, spectacular sea cliffs, dolphin watching and diving.

Estuarine Vegetation

The spatial data is reproduced from NSW Fisheries(2006/7) studies, whilst the species makeup is from the West et al.(1985). This map shows the spatial extent of the Estuarine Vegetation.

References

R.J. Williams, G. West, D. Morrison and R.G. Creese, (2006),
"Estuarine Resources of New South Wales",
prepared for the Comprehensive Coastal Assessment (DoP) by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, Port Stephens.

R.J. West, C.A. Thorogood, T.R. Walford and R.J. Williams. (1985).
"An Estuarine Inventory for New South Wales, Australia".
Fisheries Bulletin 2. Department of Agriculture, New South Wales.

Estuary Commerce

This estuary falls in the area covered by Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority.

Jervis Bay

Local Government Areas

NSW 1:25000 Map Name(s)