Bellinger River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Bellinger River in New South Wales. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.

Current Water Temperature

14.7°C

Today

14.6°C

Yesterday

15.8°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Bellinger River today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Bellinger River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Bellinger River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Bellinger River will be 12.1°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Water Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
Jun 13	15.7°C	11.7°C
Jun 14	15.8°C	11.7°C
Jun 15	15.8°C	11.7°C
Jun 16	15.6°C	11.7°C
Jun 17	15.5°C	11.7°C
Jun 18	15.5°C	11.7°C
Jun 19	14.9°C	11.7°C
Jun 20	14.6°C	11.7°C
Jun 21	14.7°C	11.7°C	14.7°C
Jun 22		11.7°C	14.3°C
Jun 23		11.7°C	14.0°C
Jun 24		11.7°C	13.6°C
Jun 25		11.7°C	13.2°C
Jun 26		11.7°C	12.8°C
Jun 27		11.7°C	12.5°C
Jun 28		11.7°C	12.1°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	17°C	23°C	27°C
February	15°C	22°C	25°C
March	15°C	20°C	24°C
April	12°C	17°C	21°C
May	8°C	14°C	19°C
June	5°C	12°C	16°C
July	4°C	11°C	15°C
August	5°C	13°C	17°C
September	9°C	16°C	21°C
October	12°C	19°C	23°C
November	15°C	21°C	25°C
December	16°C	23°C	27°C

Bellinger River: Water Temperature by Location

Bellingen

New South Wales

14.7°C

Location & Local Information

Source Great Dividing Range
• location below Point Lookout, near Ebor
• elevation 1,150 m (3,770 ft)
Mouth Tasman Sea, South Pacific Ocean
• location east of Urunga
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 109 km (68 mi)

The Bellinger River winds through the lush Mid North Coast of New South Wales, flowing from the Great Dividing Range down toward the coast near Bellingen. Its water temperature is closely tied to the seasons and local rainfall. In summer, the river generally warms to around 22–26°C, making it comfortably mild without ever feeling bath-like. Spring and autumn usually sit in the 18–22°C range, which many locals still find pleasant for a dip on a warm day. During winter, temperatures commonly drop to about 12–16°C, cool but not extreme, especially in the deeper, slower-moving sections shaded by rainforest.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Bellinger River is generally allowed and widely enjoyed, particularly at well-known swimming holes and calm bends where the current is gentle. The river is fresh, clean, and largely free from tidal influence upstream, which helps keep water quality suitable for recreational use most of the year. That said, conditions can change quickly after heavy rain, when water levels rise, temperatures fall, and visibility drops. Outside of flood periods, the river offers a safe and refreshing option for swimming, especially in summer, when it provides welcome relief from the coastal heat without the crowds you often find at nearby beaches.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Bellinger River?

The water temperature in Bellinger River today is 15°C.

What is the water temperature in Bellinger River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Bellinger River typically range from 15°C to 27°C.

Is it possible to swim in Bellinger River (New South Wales)?

Yes — many stretches and calm pools of the Bellinger River (particularly around Bellingen) are suitable for swimming, though suitability varies with season, recent rainfall and river flow. Always heed local signs and NSW Health/council advisories for water quality and safety, be aware the water can be quite cold in winter (consider a wetsuit) and avoid swimming during or immediately after heavy rain due to strong currents and contamination.