If you are visiting the Barmah National Park or heading to or from the Picola Silo Art take a moment to visit the Barmah Punt. Here you have beautiful views of the Murray River on the border of Victoria and New South Wales as you read up on the history of the former cable ferry that once crossed the river. It is said that Ned Kelly and his gang crossed the Murray River on the Barmah Punt in 1879 to reach New South Wales.
Barmah Punt, Victoria, Australia
Barmah Punt, Victoria, Australia
About the Barmah Punt
The Barmah Punt dates back prior to 1866, a second punt ran from 1870 to 1929, a third punt was in operation until 1966 when the Barmah Bridge was built. The approximately 18 metre long punts made mainly from red gum were used to transport cattle, goods, people and vehicles across the mighty Murray River. The punt could carry 20-25 tonne payload. In 1929, 2,000 sheep were ferried across the river in a 45 minute period. What an awesome event this would’ve been to witness.
Barmah Punt, Victoria, Australia
Barmah Punt, Victoria, Australia
Barmah Bridge, Barmah, Victoria
5 Things to do at Barmah Punt
Barmah Punt situated at Jack Edwards Park is a beautiful area to stop for a picnic and take in the gorgeous scenery of the Murray River. If you haven’t packed a picnic, don’t worry, within walking distance is a take away shop which sells the best potato cakes we’ve tasted for years!! For those wanting a little bit more there is a local pub across the road, in busy times ensure you make a booking to avoid disappointment.
On our visit we sat eating our lunch as we took in the serenity and beauty before learning about the Barmah Punt. Fellow tourists were happily kayaking along the river, whilst others were fishing. After our visit we headed to the nearby Barmah National Park.
Within walking distance to the Jack Edwards Park is the Terry Tinkler Reserve, another gorgeous place to have a picnic or enjoy the delicious food from the take away shop.
- Take a step back into history
- Picnic
- Fish
- Boat ramp
- Walk along the Murray River
Jack Edwards Park, Barmah, Victoria, Australia
Barmah, Victoria, Australia
Places of interest nearby
Whilst exploring this beautiful part of Victoria there are so many places of interest to visit. From silo art, water tank art or street art to historical towns of Rushworth and Murchison to name a few. Whilst in the area you cannot miss a trip to the popular Echuca, a gorgeous historical town where you can take a ride on a paddle steamer or hire a house boat with family and/or friends. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or somewhere to set up camp there’s lots on offer. In some of the country towns you’ll find accommodation if camping isn’t your style.
Click on the below links to find out more about some of the nearby attractions as you travel around this rural part of Victoria:
- Picola Silo Art, Victoria, Australia
- Barmah National Park, Victoria, Australia
- Redesdale Water Tank Art, Victoria, Australia
- Kyabram Water Tank Art, Victoria, Australia
- Silo Art Trail, North East Victoria
- Tongala Street Art, Victoria, Australia
- Echuca, Victoria
- Waranga Dam, Whroo, Victoria
- Balaclava Mine, Whroo, Victoria
- Murchison, Victoria
- Kirwans Bridge, Victoria
- Rushworth, Victoria
Barmah Punt Location
Jack Edwards Park, Murray Street, Barmah, Victoria
- Approx. 248km, 2hrs 50 mins from Melbourne CBD
- Approx. 7.3km, 9mins to Barmah Lakes Camping and Picnic Ground, Barmah National Park
- Approx. 20km, 18mins to Picola Silo Art
Feedback/Comments
Have you explored the beautiful state of Victoria? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences and places of interest you recommend we should visit.
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