Kinchega
National Park: is situated in far western New South Wales, 113
kilometres south-east of Broken Hill and extends along the western bank of
the Darling River, near the township of Menindee.
Kinchega National Park has an area of 44,260 hectares (110,000 acres). The
Park is dominated by the Darling River and its overflow system of lakes,
drainage channels and small basins. There are also extensive red sand
plains.
Large River Red Gums (Eucalyptus
camaldulensis) line the river. A number of camping sites have been
established along the river under the Red Gums.
The area was a sheep station for over 100 years. It is said that over 6
million had gone through the woolshed in that time.
In 1967 the lease expired and Kinchega National Park was dedicated.
The Kinchega woolshed has been restored and is a reminder of the
European history of the area. The nearby shearers’ quarters are available
for accommodation but booking is required.
The river country provided food for Aboriginal people prior to European
settlement. Old camp sites and middens are still visible on the plains.
These sites should not be disturbed.
Kinchega National Park has two large lakes –Menindee and Cawndilla- are
home to large numbers of water birds. Pelicans, ducks, black swans and even
seagulls are found in and around the lakes. Red Kangaroos and emus inhabit
the sand plains.
Away from the river the flood plains are dominated by Black Box (Eucalyptus
largiflorens). The red sand plains are home to many interesting plants
including Acacia victoriae, Belah
(Casuarina cristata), Emu Bushes
(Eremophilas) and Sennas
(Cassias).
The Bend Nature and Historic Drive is a self-guided tour with indicators at
points of interest.
The photograph shows the site of the Kinchega homestead complete with the
remains of corrugated iron tanks. The tall pole in the right background is
the trunk of a long-deceased palm tree.
Access is from Broken Hill along the road to Menindee. All the Park roads
are gravel and suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather. After rain the
roads may be closed.
Environment