The sepia colored Yarra River has a proud history and a large impact on the city of Melbourne and its early developments. The river was historically named as “Yarra Yarra” by John Helder Wedge in the European settlement days, mistakenly assuming that to be the aboriginal name in a different language. Only later was it revealed to him that the name actually means “ever flowing river”, a term that described any river or waterfall.
The Yarra River is considered the northern boundary of South Yarra, one of Melbourne’s oldest cities, frequently visited by travelers from all over the world. There are plenty of South Yarra hotels for accommodation and if you are looking for a modern, self-contained apartment you will most certainly be impressed by what Oaks Pinnacle, the brand new hotel has to offer.
Many observers of the beautiful river wonder about the red and brown mixed colour of the water. It is believed the water had once been clean in ancient times but the gradual erosion of clay soils in the catchment area resulted in the muddy color. As a result, the river has often been described as “the river that runs upside down”. South Yarra River is blessed with the only island in the river, Herring Island. The island is now a recreational asset, a haven to the eyes of art and nature lovers though it had been artificially built many years ago to control the flooding of the river.
The river meanders beautifully down South Yarra, providing a home to many species of fish and feeding the abundant avian life. The view is free for the delight of those who gather at the parklands set aside adjoining the South Yarra river. There are a number of entertaining facilities such as barbecue facilities, picnic facilities, fishing platforms and jetties along the banks of the river. In addition, the park with trails and paths accommodate the joggers, cyclists and walkers. If you are up for some sport, you may try boating, rowing and water skiing among many other things.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.