Goulburn River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Goulburn River in Victoria. 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
The water temperature in Goulburn River today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Goulburn 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 Goulburn 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 Goulburn 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 14.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 14.1°C | 11.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 14.2°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 1 | 15.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 2 | 14.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 3 | 14.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 4 | 14.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 5 | 14.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 6 | 14.0°C | 11.8°C | 14.0°C |
| May 7 | 11.8°C | 13.7°C | |
| May 8 | 11.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| May 9 | 11.8°C | 13.2°C | |
| May 10 | 11.8°C | 12.9°C | |
| May 11 | 11.8°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 12 | 11.8°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 13 | 11.8°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 | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| March | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| April | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| July | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| August | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| September | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| October | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| December | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
Goulburn River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source Corn Hill, Victorian Alps, Great Dividing Range
• location near Woods Point
• coordinates 37°32′13″S 146°11′22″E
• elevation 1,210 m (3,970 ft)
Mouth confluence with the Murray River
• location near Echuca
• coordinates 36°6′11″S 144°49′47″E
• elevation 100 m (330 ft)
Length 654 km (406 mi)
The Goulburn River is one of Victoria’s major inland waterways, flowing from the Great Dividing Range through farmland and bush before joining the Murray. Water temperature changes noticeably through the seasons and along different stretches of the river. In summer, temperatures typically sit around 20–24°C in slower, wider sections, which feels comfortable for swimming on hot days. Spring and autumn are cooler, usually ranging between 15–20°C, while winter brings a sharp drop to about 10–14°C, giving the water a cold edge, especially in shaded or fast-flowing areas.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Goulburn River is generally allowed and commonly enjoyed in suitable spots, particularly during summer when water levels are stable and temperatures are at their warmest. Calm bends, deeper pools, and areas with easy bank access are favoured by locals looking to cool off. However, the river is regulated in places, and sudden releases from upstream dams can lower water temperatures and increase flow without much warning. After heavy rain, the river can also become colder and murkier, making swimming less appealing. In settled summer conditions, though, the Goulburn River offers a refreshing freshwater swimming option, especially for those wanting a quieter alternative to coastal beaches.