Gum Swamp Wildlife Refuge Forbes New South Wales

Gum Swamp Wildlife Refuge at Forbes in New South Wales

Gum Swamp Wildlife Refuge lies about four kilometres south of Forbes in New South Wales. It forms part of the region’s wider Lachlan River catchment. Historically, this swamp was a seasonal wetland fed by creeks and runoff, sustaining Aboriginal communities who relied on it for food and shelter. The Wiradjuri people, traditional custodians of the area, fished and hunted here long before European settlement.

During the 19th century, European settlers altered local waterways through land clearing and irrigation. These activities changed the swamp’s seasonal patterns, affecting birdlife and vegetation. In the late 20th century, local conservationists recognised its ecological value and began restoring its natural functions. Their efforts led to the formal establishment of the Gum Swamp Wildlife Refuge, now jointly managed by Forbes Shire Council and community groups.

Today, the refuge covers approximately 100 hectares, combining open water, reed beds, and woodland margins. Its role as a wetland habitat makes it a critical feeding and nesting ground for migratory birds. Seasonal flooding still shapes the ecology, replenishing nutrients and supporting aquatic plants.

Birdlife and Ecology

Gum Swamp is one of inland New South Wales’ most significant birdwatching sites. Over 150 species have been recorded, many of them seasonal visitors or migratory species that travel thousands of kilometres each year. The refuge’s mixture of open water, reeds, and woodland supports different ecological niches, making it attractive to a wide range of birds.

Among the most frequently observed are Australian pelicans, great egrets, royal spoonbills, and black swans. The swamp also shelters several threatened species, including the blue-billed duck and freckled duck.

Public facilities, including bird hides and viewing platforms, have been added to improve access while minimising disturbance. These structures allow visitors to observe wildlife quietly and comfortably. Information boards describe the swamp’s ecology and provide advice on responsible behaviour.

Sculptures

Throughout the swamp and at each bird hide are a series of sculptures. Near the carpark is the huge 20m long giant goanna Varanus. Nearby is The Hunter, a stylised bird of prey. The sculptures at the bird hides are a series made by Vicky Crawley representing birds found in the local area.

What to Expect

The unpaved walking tracks are flat making walking easy. Either side of the tracks though is long grass, so be alert for snakes. the grass around Varanus was also long, so you need to be careful here too. The bird hides are raised above the flood level of the swamp and access is via a ramp.

The hides provide great views over the water, giving good views for bird watching. We walked around to all of the hides, getting different views over he swamp and looking for the sculptures.