---
title: "Timber Cutters Run — Murray River Touring Route"
description: "The Timber Cutters Run is a unique Murray River touring route through ancient river red gum forests and the waterways that once drove a timber industry."
url: "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/timber-cutters-run"
date: "2026-07-09T19:57:33+00:00"
language: "en-AU"
---

# Timber Cutters Run

    Central Murray River Touring Route## The Timber Cutter's RunTM — Echuca/Moama to Balranald

Murray River Driving Routes Through the World's Largest River Red Gum Forest

The Timber Cutter's Run is a 358 km self-drive touring route through the Central Murray catchment from Echuca/Moama to Balranald, following the Murray River, Gulpa Creek, Edward River, Wakool River, and Niemur River through the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the largest stand of River Red Gum in the world. The route tells the story of the Cadell Fault, a seismic event that occurred 60,000 years ago and redirected the Murray River, creating the forests we see today.

 ![The Cadell Fault beside the Gulpa Creek at Mathoura, New South Wales, Australia](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-cadell-fault-mathoura-new-south-wales-australia-1.jpg)The Cadell Fault beside the Gulpa Creek at Mathoura, New South Wales, Australia.Welcome to the Timber Cutter's RunTM, a unique touring route along ancient waterways and through ethereal forests. This driving route is not just another tourism hidden gem, but the real deal. It reveals a story of an earthquake 60,000 years ago, the Cadell Fault, the Narrows (Barmah Choke), a 50 km sand ridge, the redirection of the Murray River, and the creation of the Millawa–Barmah forests — the largest stand of River Red Gum in the world.

With more and more development along the Murray River, there are fewer and fewer places that remain relatively untouched, making it harder for visitors to experience real nature.

The Timber Cutter's Run extends from Echuca/Moama past Barmah, Mathoura, Deniliquin, Moulamein, and Kyalite, before heading north to Balranald.

Located within the Central Murray River Catchment, the Timber Cutters Run follows the Murray River, Gulpa Creek, Edward River, Wakool River, and the Niemur River.

We respectfully acknowledge that the Yorta Yorta, Perrepa Perrepa, and Wamba Wamba people are the traditional custodians of this area of the Central Murray, and we pay our respects to their elders, past and present.

📍 Echuca/Moama to Balranald, NSW/VIC 🗓️ Total distance: 358 km 🚗 AWD/4WD SUV recommended; camper trailers & offroad caravans

   ## The Cadell Fault — The Earthquake That Made the Forest

{accordion title="What is the Cadell Fault" open="false"}

Around 60,000 years ago, a seismic event changed the course of the Murray River; it is considered one of the world's most spectacular instances of an earthquake altering a river's course. While it may seem a long time in the past, it is good to put it in the context of Australian history — indigenous history goes even further back (65,000 years, to the earliest evidence of humans in Australia).

Research reveals that several sizable earthquakes uplifted the land between Echuca and Deniliquin, east of the present-day Cobb Highway (The Long Paddock touring route).

The findings summarised that the original course of the Murray River flowed west through present-day Mathoura via Green Gully, a watercourse still visible today. In fact, after heavy rain, Green Gully fills with water that flows from the Murray River's original watercourse.

### The Cadell Fault in Pictures

### Effect on the Waterways

{accordion title="Effect on the Waterways"}

- Around 60,000 years ago, a seismic event changed the course of the Murray River; it is considered one of the world's most spectacular instances of an earthquake altering a river's course.
- Research reveals that several sizable earthquakes uplifted the land between Echuca and Deniliquin, east of the present-day Cobb Highway. The original course of the Murray River ran west through present-day Mathoura through a watercourse known as Green Gully, which is still visible today and fills with water during heavy floods.
- The main fault line between Moama and Deniliquin is over 50 km long and up to 12–15 metres high.
- The Green Gully course joined the Edward/Wakool River near Wakool (west of Mathoura) and flowed to the present Murray River west of Kyalite.
- This suggested course meant the Murray River did not flow via Echuca and onto Swan Hill. It was the Goulburn River that flowed to Echuca, then on to meet the Murray River near Kyalite.
- When the tilt/fault occurred, it dammed both waterways to form two large lakes:
    - The Northern Lake (between Mathoura and Barmah)
    - Lake Kanyapella (between Barmah and Moama)
- Around 20,000 years ago, with the need to find a new course, the Murray River turned north, creating the Edward River, to present-day Deniliquin, before heading west (Moulamein) and joining the present course west of Kyalite; while also continuing to fill the Northern Lake.
- The Goulburn, with the southern-sourced Campaspe River, formed Lake Kanyapella.
- The flow of the Murray River into the Northern Lake deposited silt protrusions (also known as silt-jetties) through the lake which became the modern course of the Murray River; this course created a narrower river and is today known as the narrows or choke.
- The Murray River also created a new course to the southwest via the 'Narrows' (the Barmah Choke), following its current path, which was carved by the ancient Goulburn River, to Swan Hill.

### Effect on the Landscape

{accordion title="Effect on the Landscape"}

- Back when this was happening, the landscape was very different from the forests we see today; evidence reveals a more open woodland and grassy plains, including tree ferns. The actual red-gum forest is relatively new, forming around 6,000 years ago.
- The flow of the Murray was much greater than it is today, as glaciers covered the ranges around Mount Kosciuszko (20,000+ years ago), and their melt provided a constant supply of water.
- During a period of severe drought, the Northern Lake dried and prevailing winds blew the sand sediment from the lake, creating the sand ridge that runs along Picnic Point Road as well as the sandhills around the now-named Sand Range woodlands.
- During the same dry period, Lake Kanyapella also dried up, creating the sandhills around Barmah, visible along the Barmah Road leading from the Cobb Highway.
- With the ebb and flow of floods, the native grasses flourished, but the original trees were not suited to the constant wet. This provided a natural opportunity for different tree species to grow — species like the River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) formed the upper canopy, while native grasses, sedges and rushes thrived in the ground storey.
- Legend of the First Nation people, the Yorta Yorta, tells a story that ancestors, when the Cadell till dammed the water during a great flood, helped the river break through by digging through a sand ridge and enabled the current course of the Murray River.
- The narrows (Barmah Choke) that were created in the Northern Lake and formed the modern course of the Murray are (surprisingly) only 500–600 years old. This section of the river exhibits straight-sided banks, which are out of character for the Murray River.
- The Barmah Choke restricted the flow of the river and created the perfect conditions for the Barmah forest to form and establish itself as the largest River Red Gum forest in the world. The Gulpa Creek was diverted northward by the fault line and joined the Edward River about 20 km south of Deniliquin.
- The Edward River came into being as a result of the Murray River building up as a result of the Cadell tilt and needing a new course, and the resultant waterway rejoined the Murray River southwest of Balranald.
- The Goulburn River is believed to have been the main waterway to Echuca, then followed the same course as today's Murray River; the exception being that it was not linked to the original route of the Murray via Mathoura/Green Gully which ended up flowing north to Deniliquin then west as the Edward River.

{/accordions}

   ## Touring Route Introduction

The Timber Cutters RunTM is a touring route through the Central Murray Catchment of the Murray–Darling Basin from Moama to Balranald, visiting Barmah, Mathoura, Deniliquin, Moulamein, and Kyalite along the way.

This adventure tells the story of an earthquake 60,000 years ago that redirected the Murray River, created two ancient lakes, and formed the Barmah Forest.

The Barmah–Millewa forest is the largest stand of River Red Gum in the world.

This earthquake created the Cadell Fault/Tilt, an elevated ridge that stretches from Moama to Deniliquin, much of which this tour will follow, with the section from Deniliquin to Kyalite following the Edward and Wakool Rivers.

If doing the Long Paddock touring route from Moama to Wilcannia, this route is an excellent alternative to the Moama–Deniliquin section and does not bypass any of that route's waypoints.

### Route Summary

- **Total Distance:** Full Route: 358 km
- **Road Surface:** Mostly unsealed but well-maintained — bitumen alternative routes available
- **Vehicle Recommendation:** AWD/4WD SUV with good clearance. Camper trailers & small-medium off-road caravans
- **Communications:** Good mobile coverage on Telstra and Optus
- **Food & Provisions:** Moama, Mathoura, Deniliquin, Moulamein, Balranald

   ## Leg 1 — Echuca/Moama to Barmah

The southern terminus of the Timber Cutters Run is Moama on the Victoria/New South Wales border. Just across the Murray River from Echuca, the two towns form the twin towns known as Echuca–Moama, located about 230 km north of Melbourne.

Moama is on the 'quiet side of the river' and lends itself to a more relaxed pace than Echuca, but provides effortless access to all the highlights of Echuca and adds some of its own unique experiences.

{accordion title="Moama - Barmah"}

### Touring Route Description

 ![The Goulburn River and Murray River junction near Echuca, NSW, Australia](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-goulburn-river-murray-river-junction-echuca-victoria-1.jpg)The Goulburn River and Murray River junction near Echuca, NSW, Australia.The start/finish point of the Timber Cutters RunTM is Echuca/Moama, with the first leg to Barmah following the Murray River along the Victorian side of the river from Echuca to Barmah with some beautiful river vistas along the way.

This route crosses the Goulburn River, a tributary of the Murray, which originates at Woods Point and the Victorian High Country and is believed to have been the original course of the Murray River before the events that caused the Cadell tilt.

There is also an opportunity to see where the Goulburn River joins the Murray River, but large caravans are not advised on this track as there is little room to turn around. It is an easy walk from the main road, though.

It is a worthwhile experience to see where the ancient Goulburn River joins the Murray River and to consider that, upstream of Mathoura, the waterway is relatively new.

### Touring Route Details

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goulburn Road | 2.20 | 2.20 | Right | Sealed |
| Bangerang Road | 7.25 | 9.45 | Left | Sealed |
| Stewarts Bridge Road | 22.50 | 31.95 | Left | Gravel |
| Barmah-Shepparton Road | 5.96 | 37.91 |  | Sealed |

### About Barmah

{accordion title="About Barmah"}

**Trivia Time:** Barmah is the only Victorian town north of the Murray River. (Due to the winding nature of the river, this section has Victoria to the north of the river.)

Barmah is a small Murray River town known as the gateway to the superb Barmah National Park, home to the world's largest Red Gum forest. The importance of the red-gum forest and the appeal of the Murray River are central to the area's attractions.

It is thought that the town's name comes from the Yorta Yorta word 'Paama', meaning 'meeting place'.

In 1863–64, the railway line from Bendigo to Echuca was built, consuming large numbers of sleepers cut from red gums in the Barmah forest. A punt began operation, joining the tracks from Echuca to Yarrawonga, where they crossed the Murray River. In 1886, a town was surveyed on elevated ground near the punt, and the resulting Barmah village became a river outlet for wool from surrounding pastoral stations. It also became the shipping point for railway sleepers cut for domestic use, which were exported to India and New Zealand.

By the 1950s, there was evidence that the weirs built on the Murray River for irrigation were decreasing the flood frequency in the Barmah forest. The change in rhythm reduced germination in red gum seedlings and interfered with the breeding of water birds. Flood regulators were installed by 1959.

#### Barmah National Park

The Barmah National Park covers 28,500 hectares and, with the adjoining Murray Valley National Park in New South Wales, forms the world's largest River Red Gum forest. The complex ecology of the forest is made possible by the Murray River and its flood regime, which creates a diverse natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, especially waterbirds.

Internationally recognised and listed under the Ramsar Convention, the wetlands of the forest represent all four freshwater wetland types in Victoria. The forest provides critical habitat for over 200 recorded bird species, with Brolgas, Night Herons, Spoonbills, Sea Eagles, and Azure Kingfishers all visible in the Park.

The iconic River Red Gums can 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 before the next deluge reaches them. Hollows and broken branches provide nesting for Galahs, Cockatoos, Cockatiels and various Parrots; while fallen branches offer habitat for other animals.

   ## Leg 2 — Barmah to Mathoura (Picnic Point)

Now the real fun begins!

{accordion title="Barmah - Mathoura"}

### Touring Route Description

 ![The Murray River along Barmah River Road, Barmah, Victoria, Australia](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-murray-river-barmah-river-road-bramah-victoria-1.jpg)The Murray River along Barmah River Road, Barmah, Victoria, Australia.The journey from Barmah to Mathoura (Picnic Point) follows the Murray River (on the NSW side) through the Murray Valley National Park (Moira section), with excellent access to the river along well-maintained tracks through the forest.

The River Road follows the river until Moira Creek Road (a right turn), which proceeds up to Moira Lake and westward along the Millewa irrigation channel. There is no route along the Murray River north between Moira Lake and Barmah Lake, hence the need to go around Moira Lake to the west.

Once around the lake, Swifts Creek Road heads east back to the Murray River and the Swifts Creek campground. As in the south of the lakes, vehicle access to the lakes along the Murray River is not possible, but from the north of the lakes, it is possible to reach them via a walking trail.

### Touring Route Details

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barmah Road | 1.00 | 1.00 | Right | Sealed |
| Barmah River Road | 7.50 | 8.50 | Right | Gravel |
| Moria Creek Road | 7.40 | 15.90 | Left | Gravel |
| Dora Creek Road | 1.60 | 17.50 | Right | Gravel |
| Algeboia Road | 0.90 | 18.40 | Right | Gravel |
| Dora Road | 4.00 | 22.40 | Left/Merge | Gravel |
| Coolamon Road | 4.30 | 26.70 | Right | Gravel |
| Swifts Creek Road | 3.90 | 30.60 | Right | Gravel |
| Hut Road | 7.60 | 38.20 | Right/Merge | Gravel |
| Poverty Point Road | 2.70 | 40.90 | Right | Sealed |
| Picnic Point Road | 1.00 | 41.90 |  | Sealed |

From Swifts Creek campground, the route heads north towards Picnic Point with lovely vistas of the Murray River.

#### The Murray Valley National Park

In 2010, the Millewa, Gulpa and Moira State Forest was converted into a National Park, now referred to as the Murray Valley National Park. The well-known names are used for each section:

- **The Moira Section:** Barmah to just north of the Gulpa Creek, with the Cobb Highway being the western boundary and the Murray River the eastern boundary.
- **The Millewa Section:** From the Edward River in the west, running along the Murray to the west of Tocumwal.
- **Gulpa Island Section:** Bounded by the Gulpa Creek and Edward River.

### About Mathoura

{accordion title="About Mathoura"}

Mathoura is an integral part of the Long Paddock touring route that retraces a historic cattle run from Moama (just over the Murray River from Echuca), through Deniliquin, Hay, Ivanhoe, and Wilcannia.

Along the way — at Moama, Mathoura, Deniliquin, Pretty Pine, Wanganella/Boorooban, Hay, and Ivanhoe — are various sculptures depicting the history of the route, as well as interpretive signs to learn more about this iconic stock route.

 ![Walking one of the many walking trails around Mathoura, NSW.](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/mathoura-nsw-walking-trails-murray-goulburn-national-park-1.jpg)Walking one of the many walking trails around Mathoura, NSW.Mathoura began as a market garden and a pub on a drovers' track (part of the Long Paddock) in the mid-1800s and grew into a timber source for the developing young nation of Australia. Not surprisingly, timber remains an economic mainstay of the area ever since the woodcutters first arrived in the 1850s. The Red Gum timber is used for railway sleepers, furniture, landscaping, firewood, fence posts, and much more.

Mathoura is one of the best places to experience all that the forests and rivers have to offer. The town of Mathoura grew out of a need to service the drovers' route of the Long Paddock between Deniliquin and Echuca. As the stock route became less critical, attention in the area turned to the treasured Red Gum forests, and soon the valuable timber was harvested to help build our growing nation. Red Gum was a useful resource for roads in Melbourne as well as sleepers for the expanding railroads.

#### Mathoura — See and Do

- Local Forests and Wetlands
- Indigenous Culture
- River ecosystems
- Reed Bird Hide
- Heritage Trail
- Walking Trails
- Cadell fault/tilt and associated sand ridges
- The original course of the Murray (Green Gully)
- Picnic Point

The Barmah–Moira lake system, along with the Edward River and Gulpa Creek, makes the area an excellent place to experience abundant birdlife and unique fishing spots along the way.

There are several excellent walks through the forest along the Gulpa Creek, as well as fantastic forest drives by car or bicycle; the peaceful nature of the latter is enhanced by the natural beauty of the serene forests.

A short drive from Mathoura, along the now-sealed Picnic Point Road, through the forest along the Gulpa Creek, is Picnic Point Reserve. Located on a horseshoe bend of the Murray River in the Millewa, Moira and Barmah forests, it is a place of water activities, nature walks, accommodation, and a bar/cafe/restaurant aptly named The Timber Cutter.

[Discover More About Mathoura](https://reddustsnow.com.au/component/banners/click/16.html "Mathoura Tourism, NSW, Australia")

   ## Leg 3 — Mathoura (Picnic Point) to Gulpa/Edward Junction

{accordion title="Mathoura - Deniliquin"}

### Touring Route Description

 ![The junction of the Gulpa Creek and Edward River, north of Mathoura, NSW](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/edward-river-gulpa-creek-junction-1.jpg)The junction of the Gulpa Creek and Edward River, north of Mathoura, NSW.While the run along the Murray River between Barmah and Picnic Point provides insight into the river and the forests around it, the route from Picnic Point to the junction of Gulpa Creek and the Edward River is something different.

The Edward River and Gulpa Creek are anabranches of the Murray River, meaning they leave the course of the river only to return further downstream. The Edward River flows from the Murray River upstream (north) of Picnic Point and flows northward, while the Gulpa Creek flows westward before heading north (as a result of the Cadell Fault). The two meet up 20 km to the north.

Along the Picnic Point Road section, just past Millewa Road, be sure to check the Reed Beds Bird Hide.

 ![The Reed Beds Bird Hide, Mathoura, NSW, Australia.](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-reed-beds-bird-hide-mathoura-nsw-australia-1.jpg)The Reed Beds Bird Hide, Mathoura, NSW, Australia.The route along the Gulpa Creek follows this winding waterway along the Cadell Fault as it meanders northward, and along the way there are some beautiful, secluded campsites and picnic areas to fully experience the wonders of this ethereal place.

### Touring Route Details

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Picnic Point Rd | 14.80 | 14.80 | Right | Sealed |
| Gulpa Creek Rd | 11.38 | 26.18 | Right | Gravel |
| Junction Rd\* | 5.65 | 31.83 | End | Gravel |
| - | - | - | - | - |
| Junction Rd\* | 5.65 | 37.48 | Right | Gravel |
| Gulpa Walliston Rd | 0.96 | 38.44 | Right | Gravel |
| Cobb Highway | 21 | 59.44 | Right | Sealed |

The turnaround room at the end of the track is good but might be a little tight for big caravans; in that case, consider the Edward–Gulpa Loop listed below, which offers camping along the way (or at Mathoura or Picnic Point) to explore the area.

The road, well-maintained by National Parks, can be closed seasonally due to wet/flooding conditions.

To reach the Gulpa–Edward junction, turn right just before the Gulpa Creek Bridge and follow Junction Road all the way (not along any of the side roads/tracks).

### About Deniliquin

{accordion title="About Deniliquin"}

Deniliquin, or Deni as it is affectionately known, is a famous rural service town built around the Edward River and a series of lagoons surrounded by both parkland and state forest.

Apart from the iconic Deni Ute Muster (now in its twentieth year), the town is famous for its water-based activities and as the heart of an irrigation area covering 725,000 hectares.

Agriculturally, the area produces rice, wool, beef, dairy products, wheat, barley, fat lambs, vegetables, fruit, and timber.

### Gulpa Creek–Edward River Loop

{accordion title="Gulpa Creek - Edward River Loop"}

This loop along the Gulpa Creek and Edwards River can be started at any point along the route and offers a beautiful day of touring. The circuit is not long, but with a day to do it, it allows for a more relaxed way to experience the area.

During flooding and after heavy rains, some of this loop may be closed. (Check with Parks Office: [Murray Valley National Park](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/murray-valley-national-park "Murray Valley National Park, NSW, Australia") (See Alerts) or call NPWS Moama office on 03 5483 9100.)

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millewa Road | 2.21 | 2.21 | Right | Gravel |
| Picnic Point Road | 4.36 | 6.57 | Right | Sealed |
| Gulpa Creek Road | 4.01 | 10.58 | Slight Right | Gravel |
| Little Edwards Road | 0.45 | 11.03 | Right | Gravel |
| Duggans Road | 3.00 | 14.03 |  | Sand |
| \*\* Sand Ridge Woodlands |  | 14.03 |  |  |
| Duggans Road | 3.26 | 17.29 | Left | Sand |
| Little Edwards Road | 0.43 | 17.72 | Right | Gravel |
| Gulpa Creek Road | 10.80 | 17.37 | Right | Gravel |
| Junction Road | 6.40 | 16.98 |  | Gravel |
| \*\* Gulpa-Edward Junction |  |  |  |  |
| Junction Road\* | 6.40 | 23.77 | Right | Gravel |
| Gulpa Creek Road | 0.68 | 24.45 | Left | Gravel |
| Taylor's Bridge Road | 4.93 | 29.38 | Right | Gravel |
| Tuppal Road | 1.24 | 30.62 | Right | Gravel |
| Edward River Road | 8.25 | 38.87 | Right | Gravel |
| Millewa Road | 0.58 | 39.45 | Right | Gravel |

Along this unique route, there are several places to see the sandhills and sand ridges that extend along the Cadell faultline, formed by sediment from the two ancient lakes, blown by prevailing winds — similar to the Perry sandhills near Wentworth and the dunes at Lake Mungo. Of particular note, Sand Ridge Woodland, off Duggan Road, provides vehicle access to the sand ridge via maintained, sandy tracks. (Not RV friendly… and always stay on the formed roads.)

#### Sand Ridge Woodland

#### The Edward River

   ## Leg 4 — Deniliquin to Moulamein

{accordion title="Deniliquin - Moulamein"}

### Touring Route Description

 ![The Edward River Werai Reserve, Outback NSW, Australia](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-edward-river-werai-reserve-outback-nsw-australia_DSC3341.jpg)The Edward River Werai Reserve, Outback NSW, Australia.With a stopover in Deniliquin, it is time to continue the journey towards Balranald, but now we follow a very different waterway as the Edward now flows west, to the north of the Cadell Fault.

As the Edward River weaves its way towards the Murray River, it is joined by the Wakool and Niemur rivers, as well as a few creeks.

This area is home to the Perrepa Perrepa and Wamba Wamba First Nations.

A highlight along this route is the Werai Reserve, an area that includes several of the waterways and is managed by NSW NPWS on behalf of the traditional owners.

If the roads are flooded, please use the alternative route.

### Touring Route Details

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wakool Rd | 11.45 | 11.45 | Right | Sealed |
| Calimo Rd | 11.70 | 23.15 | Right | Unsealed |
| Colligen Creek E Rd | 12.5 | 35.65 | Right | Unsealed |
| Old Morago Rd | 3.68 | 39.33 | Left | Unsealed |
| Finn Rd | 3.59 | 42.92 | Continue | Unsealed |
| South River Rd | 30.27 | 73.19 | Left | Unsealed |
| Balpool Rd | 35.1 | 108.29 | Right | Unsealed |
| Moulamein Rd | 1.7 | 110 | Destination | Sealed |

### About Moulamein

{accordion title="About Moulamein"}

The township of Moulamein is located 373 km north of Melbourne and 70 km northeast of Swan Hill, with the Edward River flowing through the centre of town.

Debate reigns about the origin of the name, with some believing it is named after the Burmese seaport of Moulmein in 1842 by an early settler to the area (Augustus Morris), while others attribute the name to a transliteration of a local indigenous word meaning 'the meeting of the waters'.

The reference to the meeting of the waters is due to the Billabong Creek flowing into the Edward River in the town. The Billabong Creek is the longest creek in Australia, flowing over 320 km from near Holbrook to the east.

Settled as early as 1830, Moulamein is the oldest town in the Riverina and was its administrative centre, as it was an important crossroads and port where paddle steamers plying the Edward River could exchange cargo in the days when the river system was the most effective means of transport.

With the railway reaching Echuca in 1864 and becoming the most important port on the Murray River, Moulamein's status as a transport hub started to decline.

Today, it is a quiet little town on the banks of the Edward River and Billabong Creek, servicing the surrounding wheat and rice-growing properties.

#### Moulamein — See and Do

- The Old Courthouse
- Old Wharf (Replica)
- Moulamein Lake
- The Old Bullock Drays

   ## Leg 5 — Moulamein to Kyalite & Balranald (Lake Paika)

{accordion title="Moulamein - Kyalite & Balranald (Lake Paika)"}

### Touring Route Description

 ![The Edward River between Moulamein and Kyalite, Murray Shire, NSW, Australia](https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/edward-river-between-moulamein-kyalite-outback-nsw-australia_DSC3393.jpg)The Edward River between Moulamein and Kyalite, Murray Shire, NSW, Australia.The last section of the Timber Cutter's Run is pretty much all sealed road, but there are still some awesome places to access the Edward River and Wakool (which it flows into) for some camping, fishing, picnicking, or just some river relaxation.

### Touring Route Details

 | **Road/Track** | **Distance (km)** | **Cumulative (km)** | **Turn** | **Road Type** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balranald Rd | 30.0 | 30.00 | Straight | Sealed |
| Kyalite Rd | 28.8 | 58.8 | Kyalite | Sealed |
| Yanga Way | 35.2 | 94 | Right | Sealed |
| Sturt Highway | 2.8 | 96.8 | Left | Sealed |
| Ivanhoe Rd | 16.5 | 113.3 | Destination | Unsealed |

About 12 km past where the Balranald Rd heads north (and you are continuing on Kyalite Rd), just before the sharp bend north (to the right), there are several access roads leading off to the south for probably the best access to the Edward River stretching for several kilometres.

Up next is the iconic Kyalite pub, which is always well worth the stopover for refreshments, a meal, or even an overnight stay.

From Kyalite, it is a straight run along the Yanga Way to Balranald on the Sturt Highway west of Hay.

All good things must come to an end... and with Balranald on the horizon, there is only a short 10-minute (17 km) drive to our accommodation destination, the wonderful Lake Paika Accommodation.

### About Balranald

{accordion title="About Balranald"}

The quiet and pretty town of Balranald is located on the Murrumbidgee River, 859 km from Sydney. Originally inhabited by the Wemba-Wemba Aboriginal group, who called the area 'Nap Nap', Balranald was probably the first town settled on the New South Wales side of the river. Balranald is now one of the major entry points to the Lake Mungo National Park and the recently opened Yanga National Park.

The population of Balranald Shire is approximately 2,500 people, and the township has become renowned for the habitation of a frog — but not just any frog: Balranald is home to the highly endangered Southern Bell frog species (Litoria Raniformis), which is listed on the NSW Endangered Species List.

Gazetted as a town on the 4th of April 1851, Balranald is considered the oldest settlement on the Lower Murrumbidgee.

George James McDonald, the Commissioner for Crown Lands, named the town after the place he was from, Balranald on the Isle of Uist in the New Hebrides. The town prospered on the primary industries of wheat, wool, and red gum timber. Agriculture remains a strong factor in the town's economy, with farmers now growing canola, cotton, wheat, barley, fruit, grapes, and vegetables.

Balranald is a potential geographer's living classroom. It is a pivotal place of two great Australian landscapes: to the east, the Riverina Plain, and to the west, the Murray–Darling Depression.

Culturally, this area is rich in both Aboriginal and European history. World Heritage Listed Mungo National Park has attracted global attention due to archaeological sites containing human remains dating to at least 50,000 years ago.

Aboriginal culture is also in abundance at Yanga National Park, which celebrates its Indigenous heritage, pastoral history, and many natural wonders.

#### Balranald — See and Do

- Visit the Interpretative Pavilion
- The Museum
- The Old Gaol
- The Wintong School and the Skate Park
- The Discovery Centre
- See Aboriginal Art and Craft at the Discovery Centre and The Gallery
- Visit the Art Gallery with its many exhibitions
- Walk the Heritage and Military Trails and see the Swing Bridge
- Visit the Royal Theatre
- Birdwatching enthusiasts can walk the Ben Scott Memorial Bird Trail
- Take an Outback Geo Adventure's tour to Yanga and Mungo
- Parks with playground equipment for those travelling with children
- Swimming pool in the heart of town for the warmer months
- Interesting shops and the town's restaurants and eateries

{/accordions}

   ## Frequently Asked Questions

 What is the Timber Cutter's Run?The Timber Cutter's Run is a 358 km self-drive touring route through the Central Murray catchment from Echuca/Moama to Balranald, following the Murray River, Gulpa Creek, Edward River, Wakool River, and Niemur River through the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the largest stand of River Red Gum in the world.

 What is the Cadell Fault?The Cadell Fault is the result of several sizable earthquakes around 60,000 years ago that lifted a ridge of land over 50 km long (between Moama and Deniliquin), redirected the Murray River, and ultimately created the conditions for the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the world's largest River Red Gum forest.

 What vehicle do I need for the Timber Cutter's Run?An AWD/4WD SUV with good clearance is recommended, along with camper trailers and small-to-medium offroad caravans. The route is mostly unsealed but well maintained, with bitumen alternative routes available. Some sections can be closed due to wet or flooding conditions.

 What is the Barmah Choke?The Barmah Choke (also called the Narrows) is a naturally narrow section of the Murray River created when the Cadell Fault redirected the river through the Northern Lake. This choke is only 500–600 years old, exhibits unusually straight-sided banks, and its restricted flow created the perfect conditions for the Barmah Forest to establish itself as the world's largest River Red Gum forest.

 Where does the Timber Cutter's Run finish?The route ends at Balranald on the Murrumbidgee River (Sturt Highway west of Hay), with an optional short 17 km detour to Lake Paika accommodation. Balranald is also a major entry point to Lake Mungo National Park and Yanga National Park.

   ## Explore the Central Murray River

The Timber Cutter's Run is just one of the extraordinary Murray River touring experiences on Red Dust Snow. Continue downstream along the Lower Murray Run to Lake Alexandrina, or head north to explore the broader Murray–Darling Basin.

[Murray River Explorer](https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river "The Murray River, Australia") [Murray River Wall Art](https://wallart.reddustsnow.com)

## Schema

```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@graph": [
    {
      "@type": "Article",
      "@id": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/tmber-cutters-run#article",
      "headline": "The Timber Cutter's Run — Echuca/Moama to Balranald",
      "description": "A 358 km self-drive touring route through the Central Murray catchment from Echuca/Moama to Balranald, following the Murray River, Gulpa Creek, Edward River, Wakool River, and Niemur River through the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the world's largest River Red Gum forest — and tracing the geological story of the Cadell Fault earthquake 60,000 years ago.",
      "image": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/images/in-article-pans/the-cadell-fault-mathoura-new-south-wales-australia-1.jpg",
      "author": {
        "@id": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/#/schema/Person/simon"
      },
      "publisher": {
        "@id": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/#/schema/Organization/base"
      },
      "mainEntityOfPage": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/tmber-cutters-run",
      "about": {
        "@type": "Place",
        "name": "Central Murray River, NSW/VIC, Australia"
      },
      "isPartOf": {
        "@id": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/#/schema/WebSite/base"
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "TouristTrip",
      "@id": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/tmber-cutters-run#trip",
      "name": "The Timber Cutter's Run Touring Route",
      "description": "A 358 km self-drive adventure from Echuca/Moama through Barmah, Mathoura, Deniliquin, Moulamein, and Kyalite to Balranald, following ancient waterways through the Barmah–Millewa Forest and tracing the Cadell Fault geological story.",
      "touristType": [
        "Self-drive travellers",
        "4WD and AWD touring",
        "Nature and geology enthusiasts",
        "River touring"
      ],
      "itinerary": {
        "@type": "ItemList",
        "itemListElement": [
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Echuca/Moama"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Barmah National Park"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Mathoura and Picnic Point"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 4,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Gulpa Creek – Edward River Junction"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 5,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Deniliquin"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 6,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Moulamein"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 7,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Kyalite"
            }
          },
          {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 8,
            "item": {
              "@type": "TouristDestination",
              "name": "Balranald and Lake Paika"
            }
          }
        ]
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
      "itemListElement": [
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 1,
          "name": "Home",
          "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 2,
          "name": "Explorer",
          "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 3,
          "name": "Murray River",
          "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 4,
          "name": "Timber Cutter's Run",
          "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/tmber-cutters-run"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "@type": "FAQPage",
      "mainEntity": [
        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "What is the Timber Cutter's Run?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "The Timber Cutter's Run is a 358 km self-drive touring route through the Central Murray catchment from Echuca/Moama to Balranald, following the Murray River, Gulpa Creek, Edward River, Wakool River, and Niemur River through the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the largest stand of River Red Gum in the world."
          }
        },
        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "What is the Cadell Fault?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "The Cadell Fault is the result of several sizable earthquakes around 60,000 years ago that lifted a ridge of land over 50 km long (between Moama and Deniliquin), redirected the Murray River, and ultimately created the conditions for the Barmah–Millewa Forest — the world's largest River Red Gum forest."
          }
        },
        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "What vehicle do I need for the Timber Cutter's Run?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "An AWD/4WD SUV with good clearance is recommended. The route is mostly unsealed but well maintained, with bitumen alternatives available. Some sections can be closed due to wet or flooding conditions — check with Murray Valley National Park NPWS Moama office on 03 5483 9100."
          }
        },
        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "What is the Barmah Choke?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "The Barmah Choke (also called the Narrows) is a naturally narrow section of the Murray River created when the Cadell Fault redirected the river through the Northern Lake. Dated at only 500–600 years old, it exhibits unusually straight-sided banks and its restricted flow created the conditions for the world's largest River Red Gum forest."
          }
        },
        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "Where does the Timber Cutter's Run finish?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "The route ends at Balranald on the Murrumbidgee River (Sturt Highway west of Hay), with an optional short 17 km detour to Lake Paika accommodation. Balranald is also a major entry point to Lake Mungo National Park and Yanga National Park."
          }
        }
      ]
    }
  ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Explorer",
            "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "Murray River",
            "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 4,
            "name": "Timber Cutters Run",
            "item": "https://reddustsnow.com.au/explorer/murray-river/timber-cutters-run"
        }
    ]
}
```