Rogans Bridge to Yamba
Larger vessels and those with tall masts should return to Yamba via the main channel or use their tenders to explore the many channels in the area.
For small vessels with a draft of less than 1 metre, there is an opportunity to leave the main river to navigate the North Arm just past Ashby, although there are no navigation aids. The river divides again at Warregah Island, Back Channel to the west of the island is extremely shallow and should be avoided.
© John Warrell
On the right, off North Arm, is the shallow but scenic Serpentine Channel. The North Arm continues around Goodwood Island and rejoins the main channel near Freeburn Island before returning to Yamba or Iluka.
Smaller tinnies could leave the main channel at Freeburn Island for the Romiaka Channel around Thorny Island and Romiaka Island into the Micalo Channel to the shallow Lake Wooloweyah. Or alternatively smaller motor boats can leave the main channel at Freeburn Island for Oyster Channel. The Oyster Channel Bridge clearing is 3.7 metres and the water is shallow and care should be taken.
© John Warrell
start
Rogans Bridge, Rogans Bridge Rd, Seelands. (GPS 29deg,37.237min.S, 152deg,53.091min.E) 2wd (anchor off).
finish
Yamba Marina, Yamba Rd, Yamba. (GPS 29deg,26.144min.S, 153deg,20.888min.E) 2wd suitable.
river distance
93 km plus (dependant on route chosen).
recommended craft
- Main channel - Any.
- Southern Arm detour, The Broadwater and Lake Wooloweyah - small motor boats, low masted vessels with shallow draft.
hazards
- Grafton Bridge (7.9 metres).
- Narrow and shallow Serpentine channel.
- Pacific Hwy Bridge over North Arm (3.6 metres).
- Wharf St bridge over North Arm (4.5 metres).
- Yamba Road bridge over Oyster Channel (3.7 metres).
points of interest
- Fishing in Oyster Channel
- The Broadwater
- Lake Wooloweyah
- Eagle nesting on power poles opposite Ilarwill
