Huon River

Huon River Taloonne
Lower reaches of the Huon River in winter
Location of the Huon River mouth in Tasmania
Etymology	Jean-Michel Huon de Kermadec, a French explorer
Native name	Taloonne (Southeast Tasmanian)
Location
Country	Australia
State	Tasmania
Region	South-west, South-east Tasmania
Cities	Judbury, Ranelagh, Huonville, Franklin, Cygnet (Port Cygnet)
Physical characteristics
Source	Marsden Range
• location	Southwest National Park below Junction Hill
• coordinates	42°54′S 146°20′E
• elevation	578 m (1,896 ft)
Mouth	D'Entrecasteaux Channel
• location	Surveyors Bay
• coordinates	43°16′52″S 147°6′51″E
Length	174 km (108 mi)
Width
• maximum	5 kilometres (3.1 mi)
Depth
• average	3 metres (9.8 ft)
• maximum	12 metres (39 ft)
Basin features
Tributaries
• left	Weld River, Russell River, Little Denison River, Mountain River
• right	Anne River, Cracroft River, Picton River, Arve River
National park	Southwest National Park

The Huon River (/ˈhjuːɒnˈrɪvə/ HYOO-on-RIV-ə, Mellukerdee/palawa kani: Taloonne) is a perennial river located in the south-west and south-east regions of Tasmania, Australia. At 174 kilometres (108 mi) in length, the Huon River is the fifth-longest in the state, with its course flowing east through the fertile Huon Valley and emptying into the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, before flowing into the Tasman Sea.

At its mouth, the Huon River is over 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) wide, and in the lower reaches, the river's average depth is 3 metres (9.8 ft), with maximum depths of up to 12 metres (39 ft). The Egg Islands, located in this lower tidal zone, serve as a significant ecological area due to their rich wetlands and birdlife.

The Huon River was historically a transportation route for early settlers, the timber industry, and agricultural goods. The development of roads in the Huon Valley over the 19th century eventually overtook the river as the primary transport route.

Location and features

The Huon River rises below Junction Hill in the Southwest National Park, drawing much of its water from the Marsden Range and associated peaks, including Mount Anne, Mount Bowes, and Mount Wedge. Flowing through Tasmania’s rugged South West Wilderness, the river traverses a variety of terrains before emptying into the D'Entrecasteaux Channel near Surveyors Bay.

The river is impounded at Scotts Peak Dam and passes through Lake Pedder before continuing southeast. It is joined by 26 tributaries, including the Anne, Cracroft, Picton, Weld, Arve, Russell, and Mountain River. As the river reaches its lower section, it becomes tidal after passing through the rural township of Glen Huon and continues through Huonville, Franklin, and Cygnet (Port Cygnet) before reaching the sea.

Key points of interest along the river include the Tahune Airwalk and Huon Island, a small island near the river’s mouth that plays an important role in local conservation efforts. The Egg Islands are also significant, located in the lower tidal section of the river and known for their ecological diversity.

Ecology and environment

Huon River upstream

The Huon River supports a unique and diverse ecosystem, with its surrounding wetlands, forests, and waterways providing habitats for a variety of species. The river’s lower reaches, especially near the Egg Islands and Huon Island, are particularly important for bird species as part of Tasmania’s network of wetlands.

One of the most iconic tree species associated with the Huon River is the Huon pine (Lagarostrobos franklinii), an ancient tree species that can live for over 3,000 years. Huon pine is highly valued for its durable, fine-grained timber, which is naturally resistant to rot due to its high oil content. The timber has been historically used in boat building and furniture making.

Logging of Huon pine, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, significantly reduced the number of mature trees, though modern conservation efforts have helped protect remaining populations. Salvaging of naturally fallen Huon pine continues today, allowing timber to be harvested sustainably without cutting down living trees. This practice ensures the continued use of Huon pine in high-end crafts while preserving the integrity of the forests.

The surrounding forests are also home to other valuable species such as eucalyptus, and the river supports populations of native fish, including the rare Australian grayling. The river's ecosystem, however, faces challenges from pollution linked to industries such as salmon farming. In recent years, waste from salmon hatcheries has raised concerns over water quality and its impact on the river’s health and surrounding habitats.

History and Indigenous significance

Huon River with old pier pilings

The Huon River, known as "Taloonne" to the Mellukerdee people of southern Tasmania, holds deep cultural significance. Indigenous communities relied on the river for fishing, transport, and cultural practices. The surrounding landscape, including the Egg Islands, was important in their traditions.

The river is named after the French Navy officer and explorer Jean-Michel Huon de Kermadec, who explored the Tasmanian coast in the 1790s as part of Bruni d'Entrecasteaux's expedition.

Huon pine (Lagarostrobos franklinii) was first discovered as buried logs on the banks of the Huon River by Chaplain Robert Knopwood before 1810. The timber quickly became renowned for its resistance to rot and vermin, its strength, and its light weight, making it ideal for furniture and boat building.

However, it was recognised early on that Huon pine forests were a finite resource, and it became clear that these slow-growing trees could not be replaced within the lifetime of any generation. As a result, plantations were deemed unfeasible, and early settlers understood that they had to make the most of the existing timber. This led to the extensive use of Huon pine in shipbuilding and the timber industry.

European settlers also used the Huon River to transport timber and agricultural goods. Huon pine was harvested and floated down the river, playing a significant role in the economic development of the region. The apple industry later thrived in the 20th century, with apples shipped down the river for export.

Tourism and recreation

Tahune Airwalk

The Huon River and its surrounding areas, including Huon Island and the Egg Islands, are popular for eco-tourism. Visitors enjoy kayaking and bird-watching around the river’s wetlands. The Tahune Airwalk offers scenic views of the river, and cold-water swimming in the river has gained popularity as a wellness activity.

The Egg Islands and Huon Island are also important for conservation efforts, with programs focused on protecting the delicate ecosystems and wildlife of the area. Tourists are encouraged to participate in eco-friendly activities and learn about the region’s environmental significance.

Economic importance

Historically, the Huon River was crucial for transporting timber and apples to Hobart for export. Today, the river supports industries such as salmon farming, though this has raised environmental concerns due to pollution near areas like Huon Island and the Egg Islands.

Tourism is an important economic driver in the region, with eco-tourism centered around the river’s natural beauty and its islands. Kayaking, bird-watching, and the Tahune Airwalk all attract visitors to the area.

River Crossings

The Huon River has several important crossings, both current and historical, that have contributed to the region's transport and economic development.

Road Bridges

Huonville Bridge

• Huonville Bridge: Located at Huonville, this road bridge is one of the most significant crossings on the Huon River, connecting the town with surrounding agricultural regions. The bridge carries the Huon Highway (A6 highway) and is a vital link for road transport in the Huon Valley.

• Ranelagh Bridge: This road bridge connects the small township of Ranelagh with the Huon Valley’s primary road network, providing essential access for local farming communities.

• Judbury Bridge: Situated near the town of Judbury, this crossing provides access for rural communities further up the Huon River. It has historically been a key route for timber transportation from the surrounding forests.

Pedestrian Walkways

The Swinging Bridge crossing the Huon River

• Tahune Airwalk and Swinging Bridge: The Tahune Airwalk, a popular tourist attraction, features a pedestrian walkway suspended high above the Huon River, offering visitors panoramic views of the forest canopy and the river below. Additionally, the site includes a rope bridge, or swinging bridge, that allows visitors to cross a section of the river as part of the nature trail experience.

Historical crossings

Rope Bridges

In the 19th century, several rope bridges were erected to help timber workers and locals cross the river. These rudimentary crossings, often made of timber and rope, were particularly important for remote communities that had limited access to established road networks. Though none of these structures remain, they reflect the river’s historical significance as a transportation route.

Punt ferries

• Huonville Punt: Before the construction of the Huonville Bridge, a punt ferry service operated between the banks of the Huon River at Huonville. The ferry was essential for transporting people, livestock, and goods across the river before more permanent bridges were constructed.

See also

• List of rivers of Australia § Tasmania