Port Fairy – water temperature at Moyne River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Port Fairy, located on the Moyne River in Victoria. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Moyne River at Port Fairy today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Moyne River at Port Fairy: 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 Port Fairy 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 Port Fairy will be 12.2°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 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 14.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 1 | 13.6°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 2 | 14.3°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 3 | 14.3°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 4 | 14.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 5 | 13.9°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 6 | 13.6°C | 12.8°C | 13.6°C |
| May 7 | 12.8°C | 13.4°C | |
| May 8 | 12.8°C | 13.2°C | |
| May 9 | 12.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| May 10 | 12.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 11 | 12.8°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 12 | 12.8°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 13 | 12.8°C | 12.2°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 | 19°C | 24°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| March | 14°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| July | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| August | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| December | 17°C | 19°C | 23°C |
Location & Local Information
Port Fairy sits at the mouth of the Moyne River, where inland freshwater meets the cool conditions of Victoria’s south-west coast. Water temperatures in the river are strongly seasonal and generally on the cooler side compared with northern parts of Australia. In summer, the Moyne River around Port Fairy usually reaches about 18–22°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm, even during heatwaves. Spring and autumn typically see temperatures between 14–18°C, while winter brings a noticeable drop to around 9–13°C, making the water quite cold and more suitable for brief exposure only.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Moyne River at Port Fairy is generally allowed, but it is more limited and situational than in warmer regions. Locals tend to swim in calmer, sheltered stretches upstream from the river mouth, especially in summer when currents are gentler and temperatures are at their highest. Near the estuary, tidal movement can create variable currents and cooler water, reducing comfort and safety for swimming. After heavy rainfall, water quality and temperature can drop quickly, so swimming is best avoided. In settled summer conditions, the Moyne River offers a quiet freshwater option for cooling off, particularly for those who prefer a sheltered river setting over the colder open ocean nearby.