Central Queensland Highlands Blackwater Bedford Weir

bedford weir FISH.

repeat.

CAMP.

Hang out the ‘Gone Fishin’ sign and escape to Bedford Weir, located on the beautiful Mackenzie River, a short 20-minute drive from Blackwater.

The weir provides the ultimate fishing and camping getaway, stocked with Barramundi and Saratoga and offering shaded campsites for up to seven nights.

bedford chronicles

For a glimpse into the past, check out the old stone pitched road, nestled just below the weir. Constructed in the 1860s, the road facilitated access to the north.

Bedford Weir is also located near the site of the notorious 1867 gold escort murders. Fuelled by greed and gambling debt, John Thomas Griffin, Rockhampton’s then Gold Commissioner, shot Constables Patrick Cahill and John Power in his quest to steal the £4,000 that the group were transporting. Griffin was later found guilty and was the first person hung in the Rockhampton jail. A memorial has been placed at the weir in memory of the officers.

When travelling along the road between Blackwater and Bedford Weir, cast your gaze to the east and you may catch a glimpse of Coronado Curragh Mine, one of the largest coal mines in the Central Queensland Highlands.

fishing

Bedford Weir is the place to go if you want to tick a wild Saratoga off your bucket list. The highly intelligent and aggressive sportsfish provides a truly unique freshwater fishing experience.

The weir is also stocked with Barramundi and Yellowbelly, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing opportunities. If you’re in the mood for some seafood, throw in a pot to catch some tasty Red Claw crayfish. Anglers report good success from both bank and boat.

Boating and fishing are not permitted within 200 metres of the dam wall. A fishing permit is not required however possession limits and closed seasons apply. Scan for further information.

boating

The calm and flat waters of the Mackenzie River provide ideal conditions for recreational boating and water skiing. For those seeking a more relaxed adventure, explore the river by canoe or kayak, keeping a watchful eye beneath the surface for curious turtles and fish.

recreation

There are plenty of shaded areas on the water’s edge to spread out on the grass and enjoy a picnic or grill up some snags on the electric barbecues. Let the kids work up a healthy appetite on the playground.

legend

Constables Power and Cahill Memorial

Bedford Weir

Stone Pitched Road

If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, go for a nature walk along the river, starting below the dam wall. As you explore the riverbed, keep an eye out for hidden treasures in the form of petrified wood and carnelian agate. Note: this trail is only accessible when there is no or minimal water going over the dam wall.

wildlife

The tranquillity of Bedford Weir encourages a wide range of wildlife. Wallabies, potoroos, echidnas, bandicoots and a large pride of peacocks call the area home. Bird lovers are also in for a treat, with as many as 30 species of birdlife.

camping

If the fish are biting, stay a few days and make use of the camping facilities, including toilets and hot showers. Donations are encouraged.

• Maximum stay is seven nights.

• There is no power however generators may be used from 8am to 8pm.

• Water is available for washing and cleaning but is not suitable for drinking.

• Contained campfires are permitted in the fire pits provided if there are no fire bans in place at the time.

• Dogs are welcome but must be on leash at all times.

• There is limited mobile and television service.

• The nearest dump point is located on Turpentine Street, Blackwater.