Bell River (New South Wales) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bell River |
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|---|---|
| Country | Australia |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Near Orange, New South Wales, Australia 726 metres (2,382 ft) |
| River mouth | Macquarie River, Wellington, New South Wales 285 metres (935 ft) |
| Length | 149 kilometres (93 mi) |
The Bell River is a river in the central west of New South Wales, Australia. It is part of the large Murray-Darling river system. The Bell River flows into the Macquarie River.
The Bell River's Journey
The Bell River starts in the hills. These hills are located north-west of a town called Orange, New South Wales. The river then flows mostly north. It eventually joins the larger Macquarie River near Wellington, New South Wales.
The Bell River is about 146 kilometres (91 mi) (91 miles) long. During its journey, it drops about 441 metres (1,447 ft) (1,447 feet) in height. Guess what? You might even spot a Platypus! These amazing animals have been seen in the lower parts of the river, especially near Wellington.
A Look Back at the Bell River
The land around the Bell River has a long history. The Aboriginal Australians of the Wiradjuri nation were the first people to live here. They cared for the land and river for thousands of years.
Later, a European explorer named John Oxley explored the area. He named the river in honour of Brevet Major Bell. Major Bell was an important person at that time.
The Gold Rush
In 1851, something exciting happened! Small pieces of gold were found in and along the Bell River. This discovery started a small gold rush. Many people came hoping to find their fortune. Most of this gold rush happened near where Nubrigan Creek joins the Bell River.
When the River Floods
Sometimes, the Bell River can flood. This usually happens near Wellington. However, it has also flooded further upstream. Big floods happened in 1920, 1926, and 1990. In 1990, at a place called Newrea, the river reached 6.77 metres (22.2 ft) (22.2 feet) high!
