Irwin Inlet facts for kids
Irwin Inlet is a beautiful waterway located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. It's a special place where fresh river water meets the ocean. Long ago, it was also known by another name, Quarram Inlet.
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Exploring Irwin Inlet
Irwin Inlet is found in the Great Southern part of Western Australia. It's about 20 kilometres (12 mi) east of a town called Walpole and 30 kilometres (19 mi) west of Denmark. The main road, South Coast Highway, is only about 3 kilometres (2 mi) north of the inlet.
Water Sources and Ocean Connection
This inlet gets its water from two main rivers. The Bow River flows in from the northwest, and the Kent River joins from the northeast. All this water eventually flows out into the big Southern Ocean through a spot called Foul Bay.
Unique Features of the Inlet
Irwin Inlet is a type of estuary where ocean waves play a big role in shaping it. It covers a total area of about 13 square kilometres (5 sq mi). A sandbar often forms across the entrance to the inlet, separating it from the ocean. However, during winter, strong currents and high waters often break through this sandbar, allowing the inlet to connect directly with the ocean. This sandbar also divides Peaceful Bay beach into two parts.
Over time, Irwin Inlet is slowly changing into a swampy area. This happens because a lot of dirt and sand (called sediment) gets carried into the inlet, and because the water isn't very deep.
Plants and Animals of the Inlet
Even with these changes, the inlet is home to large areas of seagrass meadows. These underwater plants provide a safe home and food for many different sea creatures. Because of its rich environment, Irwin Inlet is also used for commercial fishing, meaning people catch fish there to sell.
Adventures at Irwin Inlet
For those who love to explore, the famous Bibbulmun Track crosses Irwin Inlet. Hikers don't need to swim across! There are canoes provided in sheds on both sides of the track, so adventurers can paddle themselves across the channel. The channel is about 150 metres (492 ft) wide at this crossing point.
