| Chandler River | |
|---|---|
Halls Peak Mine and the Chandler River in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park |
|
| Origin | New South Wales |
| Basin countries | Australia |
| Length | 110 kilometres |
| Source elevation | 1,260 metres |
| Mouth elevation | 210 metres |
The Chandler River is a river of New South Wales in Australia. The headwaters of the Chandler River rise on the eastern slopes of the Northern Tablelands about 43 kilometres north-east of Armidale. It is in the Local Government Area of Armidale Dumaresq Shire. The Chandler River, Wollomombi River, Oaky River, Styx River and Apsley Rivers are important tributaries of the Macleay River. These rivers pass through a number of spectacular gorges and waterfalls in the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
This river flows southwards before tumbling over the Chandler Falls just to the east of the Wollomombi Falls shortly before its confluence with the Wollomombi River. From here the Chandler River continues southwards, mostly through the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. The main tributaries of the Chandler River in order of entry are the Wollomombi River, Oaky River, Styx River and Apsley Rivers. After passing approximately 110 kilometres the Chandler River then has its confluence with Macleay River.
The Chandler River was named by Captain Dumaresq after one of his stockmen.[1]
Beef cattle are reared on the upper reaches of the river. Brumbies roam the lower country along the river.
At the Wollomombi Falls lookout there are scenic gorge rim walks and a steep walking-track that takes you down to the Chandler River. Elsewhere the Halls Peak camping area is situated on the banks of the Chandler River and caters for self-reliant visitors looking to experience the seclusion of remote camping in a rural setting. The trail is very steep, descending for almost 700 vertical metres with steep unprotected drops over the sides of the trail. It is challenging route and as a minimum requires the use of high clearance low-range 4WD vehicle with a skilled experienced driver. A fee is payable and a key must be obtained at the Armidale National Parks and Wildlife Service (New South Wales) (NPWS).[2]