Ross River

Flowing through Townsville, Ross River is a vital 49-kilometer waterway that offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Ross River Parkway, a network of over 30 kilometers of shared-use pathways, connects the city's central business district to outlying suburbs, providing scenic routes for walking, jogging, and cycling. Along its course, the river features notable spots like Riverway, Loam Island, and Pioneer Park, which host swimming lagoons, cultural centers, and parklands. Water-based activities such as fishing, kayaking, and wakeboarding are popular, with the river supporting species like barramundi and dusky flathead. The area also offers excellent bird-watching opportunities, particularly from locations like Pioneer Park, Loam Island, Apex Park, and Dam Park. Additionally, the Ross River Dam, located between Kelso and Mount Stuart, serves as a major water supply and flood control measure for the region.