Harrington Forest Reserve

Can you hear the whispers of the wind rustling through the Harrington Forest Reserve? They speak of a time long ago, when Surveyor John Oxley first set foot on this land in 1818. He named the mouth of the Manning River “Harrington Inlet,” a name that echoes through time to this very day, here at Harrington Forest Reserve. The Harrington Forest Reserve area holds a dramatic history, intertwined with the treacherous sandbars lurking just off the coast. Where the Manning River meets the sea, a series of these sandbars posed a grave danger to ships in the 19th century. Many vessels attempting to enter the river met their unfortunate end, wrecked upon these hidden obstacles. Today, a breakwater offers some protection. But imagine the peril faced by sailors navigating these waters centuries ago. At that time, skilled pilots, intimately familiar with the river’s currents and shallow shoals, were essential for safe passage. These brave individuals guided ships through the treacherous bars, their knowledge a lifeline in the face of danger. North-east of Harrington Forest Reserve, on Pilots Lookout, stands a poignant reminder of their service. Here lie the graves of the pilots and their families, forever overlooking the bar and the vast ocean they navigated. The connection to the sea continues to this day. Fishermen, both local and visitors, cast their lines in the waters near Harrington Forest Reserve. They bring in bountiful catches of snapper, bream, blackfish, and whiting, a testament to the rich marine life thriving here. Just a short distance from Harrington Forest Reserve lies the charming fishing village of Crowdy Head. With its historic 1879 lighthouse and substantial fishing fleet, it offers a glimpse into the region’s seafaring heritage. Crowdy Head also holds a unique place in recent history. It was here that a school of false killer whales beached themselves, capturing national media attention as the community rallied to tow them back to the open sea.