Discovered by Governor Arthur Phillip in 1788, Middle Harbour Creek is more than just a waterway. It’s a living testament to Sydney’s history. Today we will explore its story.
Middle Harbour Creek begins its journey where Bare Creek and Frenchs Creek meet. This confluence is north of Davidson. From there, the creek flows through Garigal National Park. It continues from Mona Vale Road down to Bungaroo. At Bungaroo, the creek transforms into Middle Harbour.
Did you know Middle Harbour Creek is a drowned-valley estuary? This means it was once a river valley that became submerged by rising sea levels. It is tide-dominated and youthful.
The catchment area of Middle Harbour Creek covers approximately 77 square kilometers. This area collects rainwater that eventually flows into the creek. The creek itself stretches about 6.1 kilometers long.
Accessing Middle Harbour Creek is surprisingly easy. Tracks from St Ives, East Killara, and East Lindfield provide entry from the west. Belrose, Davidson, Frenchs Forest, and Forestville offer access from the east. Popular day walks include the Bungaroo Track, Cascades Track, and Bare Creek Track.
Governor Phillip’s expedition aimed to find food when they first explored Middle Harbour Creek. They even camped at Bungaroo on April 16th. This marked where the tidal Middle Harbour ends. The creek begins here.
The bushland surrounding Middle Harbour Creek is abundant. You’ll find bloodwoods, scribbly gums, and narrow-leaved stringy barks. These trees are native to Australia and thrive in this environment.
The Cascades Track holds a secret from the past. Until the 1970s, the Cascades was a local swimming hole. Children enjoyed the cascading water over sandstone. Several sandstone caves offer beautiful views of the area.
For those seeking a longer adventure, you can walk the entire length of Middle Harbour Creek. A circular bushwalk covers most of its length on both sides of the creek.
The Bare Creek Track presents a bit of a challenge. It can be overgrown and difficult to find near Austlink Corporate Park. A better approach is via Wyatt Avenue and the Heath Track.
Middle Harbour Creek is a vital part of Sydney’s natural beauty. It offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to explore the present. Whether you’re hiking its trails or simply admiring its waters, Middle Harbour Creek has something for everyone. It is a place where history and nature intertwine. It invites us to discover its many hidden treasures.