11/09/2026
📍 Discover the History of Barham
Did you know Barham’s story began more than 180 years ago?
Established in 1843, Barham was named by pastoralist Edward Green after his wife’s maiden name when he took up a 114,656-acre pastoral lease along the mighty Murray River.
Long before European settlement, this beautiful riverside region was home to the Wemba-Wemba and Barapa Barapa People, the Traditional Owners whose deep connection to Country continues today.
Across the river, Koondrook grew during the 1870s as a bustling port servicing the Murray River paddle steamer trade. The two towns became permanently connected in 1904 with the construction of the iconic lift-span bridge, designed by E.M. de Burgh and built under the supervision of engineer John Monash. Its centre span still stands as one of the oldest surviving lift bridges on the Murray River.
Agriculture has always been at the heart of the region, with the first citrus orchards planted in 1911, leading to the establishment of the Barham Packing Co. in 1930.
Today, Barham & Koondrook continue to celebrate their rich heritage while offering visitors beautiful river views, country hospitality, local events, great food and a relaxed pace of life. In 2025, another chapter was added with the completion of the stunning Barham silo mural, celebrating the people and history that make this region so special.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a fishing trip, or simply passing through, take some time to explore the stories that have shaped our wonderful twin towns.
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Photos credit of Old Barham And Koondrook
