Bruce's Bend History

Local Indigenous people have enjoyed the Billabong's rich life-supporting wetland for thousands of years. Shell middens (kitchen hearths), burials and scar trees indicate a lifestyle celebrated on these banks for centuries. The Billabong was an important meeting place between Murray nations and travellers from the south. Kings Billabong took its name from the indigenous word for still water - billabong, and its European name from Captain James King, who navigated the Murray River and its tributaries in the late 19th century. The Chaffey Brothers from Canada selected Kings Billabong as the central water supply to establish the Mildura Irrigation Settlement. By 1891 a 1,000 horse powered pumping engine was installed at Psyche Bend to maintain the water level. The restored steam-powered pump at Psyche Bend can often be seen operating on key holiday weekends. Today, the reserve is supported by the Friends of Kings Billabong who can regularly be seen helping to maintain the health and integrity of this special place. Nichols point is primarily a grape horticultural producing area within a tranquil rural setting, which over the years has strongly been protected by local residents. Nichols Point residents proudly maintain a rural outlook whilst incorporating modern day activities. Progressively we have seen a growth in the number of residents and subdivision developments seeking our rural and community life style. The tranquil billabong is a highly valued conservation reserve that supports a number of wildlife species and waterbirds. Whilst preserving its natural beauty it is alluring for the tourist, bird watchers, bushwalkers, nature lovers, campers, cyclists, fishing, canoeing, dog walking and horse riding enthusiasts. There are many ways that this wild and natural land attracts and captivates the varied uses of the reserve. It has three specific trails to accommodate a variety of needs ranging from a 200m loop, 3.5km loop to a 9.5 km loop.

A thriving community on the Murray River.