Hubbry Logo
KerangKerangMain
Open search
Kerang
Community hub
Kerang
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Kerang
Kerang
Kerang
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Location of Kerang in Victoria (red)

Key Information

Kerang is a town on the Loddon River in north-central Victoria, Australia. It is the commercial centre to an irrigation district based on livestock, horticulture, lucerne and grain. It is located 279 kilometres (173 mi) north-west of Melbourne on the Murray Valley Highway a few kilometres north of its intersection with the Loddon Valley Highway, elevation 78 metres (256 ft). At the 2021 census, Kerang had a population of 3,960.[2] Kerang is believed to be an Aboriginal word for Cockatoo. It is home to Australia's largest solar and battery farm, which was opened in June 2019. The 50-megawatt battery system is located outside of Kerang and stores 100 per cent renewable energy. The 2,000 solar panels have become a tourist attraction and are drawing many businesses to the town.[3]

History

[edit]

The Wemba-Wemba and Barapa Barapa Aboriginal people are the original owners and the area's first occupants. Thomas Mitchell was the first European to visit the area, in 1836. Squatters began to settle in the area in 1845 and in 1848 Richard Beyes opened a public house at a river crossing near the future townsite. The gold rush of 1850 in Australia attracted the miner's sons, Peter and Anders Pettersson from Herrnäs to Australia in 1853. They emigrated with 4 other miners' sons, among them Lars Fredrik Pettersson who later took the name Westblad. A couple of hired hands also went with this first group. Lars Fredrik Westblad returned to Sweden to visit his home in Bjurtjärn socken.[4] When he returned to Australia in 1857, two brothers went with him and later two more brothers joined them along with a cousin and a nephew.

Lars Fredrik Westblad became a justice of the peace and the owner of an inn in Mia Mia which became a gathering spot for the Swedes. With three of his brothers and four sons he operated a farm of more than 40,000 acres at Kerang, northeast of Melbourne. He did well in the cattle business.

The Westblad family in Australia reached considerable numbers and in 1976 about 300 descendants of Lars Fredrik gathered for a reunion in Kerang.

This was followed by a saddlery and a church. In 1857 Woodford Patchell built a bridge upriver from the settlement which drew traffic from the earlier settlement. He built a store, house and hotel that became the centre of what was to become Kerang. Patchell was the first farmer in the state to use irrigation and experimented with oats, barley, maize, millet, tobacco, beet, cotton and sugarcane. The Post Office opened on 29 July 1858; the current Kerang Post Office building dates from 1886 and is heritage-listed. An earlier Kerang office, quite distant, was renamed Wedderburn on the same day.[5]

Kerang was declared a shire in 1871; at the time the settlement's population was 109. The arrival of the railway from Bendigo in 1884 and the construction of a tramway to Koondrook in 1888 led to expansion; by 1891 the population had increased to over a thousand. The spread of Patchell's irrigation ideas improved local productivity and the town continued to expand.

Burke and Wills

[edit]
Main article: Burke and Wills expedition

The Burke and Wills expedition passed through Kerang on their journey to cross Australia from Melbourne to the Gulf of Carpentaria. On Sunday, 2 September 1860 the expedition camped at Booth & Holloway's Tragowel Station to the south of Kerang. On Tuesday, 4 September 1860 they passed through Kerang, crossed the Loddon and camped at Mr. Fenton's Reedy Creek Run, making Camp XIII (their thirteenth camp since leaving Melbourne).[6]

Environment

[edit]

Kerang's symbol is a flying ibis. The area around Kerang is dotted with lagoons and lakes (including Lake Tutchewop) and is believed to have the most populous ibis rookeries in the world with an estimated 200,000 ibis using the area for breeding each year, along with many other waterbirds. It is also a popular recreational destination. Many of the wetlands have been recognised by inclusion in the North Victorian Wetlands Important Bird Area and as being of international significance through listing under the Ramsar Convention.[7]

Transport

[edit]

Kerang is located at the junction of the Loddon Valley and Murray Valley Highways. Air transport is provided by Kerang Airport.

The town is also on the Swan Hill railway line, served by V/Line trains from Kerang station to Melbourne, as well as coach services to Balranald. The Kerang-Koondrook Tramway once linked the town to Koondrook from 1889, being closed to passengers in 1976,[8] and closed 1981.[9] On 5 June 2007, a semi-trailer collided with a passenger train at a level crossing, 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) north of the town, killing 11 people.[10] This was the worst train disaster in Victoria since 1969.[11]

Community

[edit]

The town has an Australian Rules football team competing in the Central Murray Football League.[12]

Kerang has a horse racing club, the Kerang Turf Club, which schedules two race meetings a year including the Kerang Cup meeting in March.[13]

Golfers play at the course of the Kerang Golf Club on Koondrook Road.[14]

Kerang also has a thriving skatepark community, with freestyle BMX and skateboarding enthusiasts regularly honing their skills at the park.

Climate

[edit]

Kerang has a cold semi-arid climate (BSk) with hot, dry summers and cool, mostly cloudy winters. An exceptionally cold summer's day had occurred on 3 February 2005, where a maximum of 11.7 °C (53.1 °F) was registered.

Climate data for Kerang (35°45′S 143°56′E / 35.75°S 143.94°E / -35.75; 143.94, 78 m AMSL) (1903–2025)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 47.6
(117.7) 		46.9
(116.4) 		42.1
(107.8) 		39.1
(102.4) 		28.7
(83.7) 		25.6
(78.1) 		25.7
(78.3) 		28.1
(82.6) 		36.6
(97.9) 		40.0
(104.0) 		44.0
(111.2) 		46.6
(115.9) 		47.6
(117.7)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 31.8
(89.2) 		31.3
(88.3) 		27.9
(82.2) 		22.8
(73.0) 		18.1
(64.6) 		14.7
(58.5) 		14.1
(57.4) 		16.1
(61.0) 		19.2
(66.6) 		22.9
(73.2) 		26.8
(80.2) 		29.8
(85.6) 		23.0
(73.3)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 15.3
(59.5) 		15.2
(59.4) 		12.9
(55.2) 		9.4
(48.9) 		6.7
(44.1) 		4.6
(40.3) 		4.0
(39.2) 		4.9
(40.8) 		6.6
(43.9) 		8.8
(47.8) 		11.4
(52.5) 		13.5
(56.3) 		9.4
(49.0)
Record low °C (°F) 5.6
(42.1) 		5.6
(42.1) 		3.3
(37.9) 		0.6
(33.1) 		−3.1
(26.4) 		−3.9
(25.0) 		−4.6
(23.7) 		−3.2
(26.2) 		−1.1
(30.0) 		−1.1
(30.0) 		2.6
(36.7) 		4.1
(39.4) 		−4.6
(23.7)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 24.6
(0.97) 		23.1
(0.91) 		26.8
(1.06) 		26.4
(1.04) 		35.6
(1.40) 		35.7
(1.41) 		34.4
(1.35) 		36.5
(1.44) 		35.2
(1.39) 		37.4
(1.47) 		30.0
(1.18) 		27.8
(1.09) 		373.3
(14.70)
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) 3.6 3.3 3.8 4.8 7.3 8.8 9.8 9.6 8.0 7.0 5.3 4.3 75.6
Average afternoon relative humidity (%) 31 32 36 43 56 64 63 55 49 39 34 33 45
Source: Australian Bureau of Meteorology[15]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kerang

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Kerang is a rural town in northern Victoria, Australia, located on the banks of the Loddon River, approximately 25 kilometres south of the and midway between and . With a population of 3,960 as recorded in the , it functions as the administrative and commercial centre of the Gannawarra Shire. The town is a key hub for irrigated , supporting livestock production, hay crops, and export feed in the surrounding district. The modern settlement of Kerang was established in 1858 by Irish pioneer Woodford Patchell, who built the town's first store, residence, hotel, and a bridge across the Loddon River in 1863, earning recognition as Victoria's first practical irrigator. Development gained momentum following an 1870 flood that prompted relocation and rebuilding, alongside a construction boom in 1874 and the railway's arrival in 1884, which enhanced connectivity and trade. Administratively, Kerang originated within the Swan Hill Road District, was proclaimed part of the Shire of Kerang on 31 December 1898, saw its urban core form the Borough of Kerang on 1 April 1966, and integrated into the Gannawarra Shire upon its creation on 20 January 1995 through the amalgamation of the Borough of Kerang, most of the Shire of Kerang, and the Shire of Cohuna. Kerang's economy remains anchored in , with intensive systems enabling diverse farming activities including , , sheep, and broadacre crops, bolstered by local such as factories and saleyards historically renowned for horse markets. The surrounding Kerang Lakes system, comprising 23 wetlands, holds international significance for , attracting birdwatchers and supporting and . Community landmarks include Atkinson Park, a central green space adjacent to the Murray Valley Highway featuring playgrounds and event facilities, alongside completed urban revitalization projects like the transformation of Victoria Square in the .

Geography

Location and features

Kerang is situated approximately 280 km northwest of on the banks of the Loddon River in northern Victoria, . It lies within the Gannawarra Shire at an elevation of 77 meters above . The town's geographical coordinates are 35°43′S and 143°55′E . Kerang occupies flat riverine plains well-suited to agriculture, encircled by an extensive network of lagoons and lakes that integrate into the broader Murray-Darling Basin. As the primary commercial hub for the surrounding Torrumbarry Irrigation District, Kerang supports regional activities and connects to nearby towns including Lake Boga, approximately 25 km to the north.

Climate

Kerang experiences a classified as BSk under the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by low and significant temperature variations between seasons. Long-term temperature records from the Kerang indicate an annual mean maximum of 23.0°C and a mean minimum of 9.5°C, with averages reaching 31.8°C maximum and 15.3°C minimum, while sees 14.1°C maximum and 4.0°C minimum. Extreme temperatures have ranged from a record low of -6.7°C on 15 December 1958 to a high of 47.6°C on 25 2019. Annual precipitation averages 373.3 mm, predominantly occurring during winter and spring months, with to recording 34.5–36.4 mm monthly, compared to drier summers where and average 23.1–24.6 mm. These patterns reflect the region's position in the rain shadow of the , contributing to extended dry periods. trends in the Kerang area align with broader Victorian patterns, showing an increase of approximately 1.2°C in average annual temperatures since 1910, alongside declining cool-season rainfall over the past 30 years and increased variability in due to regional warming. These changes are documented in records spanning 1903–2025 for temperature and 1880–2025 for rainfall at the Kerang station. The semi-arid conditions and shifting trends significantly influence local , which relies heavily on from the system, and necessitate adaptive water management strategies to mitigate drought risks and support crop production in the Mallee region.

History

Indigenous and early settlement

The region encompassing Kerang was part of the traditional lands of the Wemba Wemba and Barapa Barapa peoples, Indigenous Australian nations who maintained a deep connection to the and surrounding wetlands for . Archaeological evidence of their occupation includes scar trees—where bark was removed for tools, canoes, or shelters—and shell middens indicating sustained use of local resources such as freshwater mussels from the Loddon River. These sites demonstrate the sophisticated environmental and cultural practices of the Traditional Owners, who managed the landscape through seasonal gatherings, , and resource harvesting. European exploration of the Kerang area began in 1836 during Major Thomas Mitchell's expedition across what he termed "Australia Felix," where he observed the expansive fertile plains ideal for , prompting later efforts. Squatters established the first pastoral runs in 1845, with the Loddon/Pine Hills run marking the initial European land occupation in the district, followed by others along the Loddon and Avoca Rivers as part of Victoria's broader squatting era. These early settlers grazed sheep and cattle on the open grasslands, often disregarding , leading to rapid dispossession of Traditional Owners. Woodford Patchell played a key role in early settlement, establishing the district's first store in 1858, which served as the nucleus for community development. The town of Kerang was formally surveyed and gazetted in 1861, deriving its name from a Wemba Wemba Aboriginal term possibly meaning "," reflecting the area's rich Indigenous linguistic heritage. In 1862, the Kerang Road District was proclaimed, encompassing a vast 10,490 square miles with just 43 initial ratepayers. Patchell later constructed the district's first hotel in 1865. The district became the Shire of Swan Hill on 14 August 1871, with a recorded of 109 residents, formalizing local amid growing activities. The shire was renamed the Shire of Kerang on 31 December 1898. Irrigation schemes emerged in the late to address the region's variable rainfall, beginning with an experimental farm project in 1863 that tested water diversion from the Loddon River, laying the groundwork for transformative agricultural expansion. These early efforts, supported by government initiatives, shifted the local economy from dryland toward irrigated farming, though they also altered traditional waterways central to Indigenous custodianship.

Burke and Wills expedition

The Victorian Exploring Expedition, led by with as surveyor and second-in-command, departed on August 20, 1860, aiming to traverse from south to north and reach the , marking the first such crossing by Europeans. The expedition comprised 19 men, 23 camels, six horses, and wagons carrying supplies, organized by the Royal Society of Victoria to claim a 20,000-pound prize for the feat. In early September 1860, the party reached the Kerang area, then part of the Loddon District and traditional lands of the Wemba Wemba people. On , they established Camp 12 at Tragowel Station on the Loddon River, owned by settlers and John Holloway, where heavy rain overnight delayed departure until September 4. That day, the group crossed the Loddon River at Old Kerang amid slippery, muddy plains of clay, loam, and sand, before advancing 8 miles north to Camp 13 at Reedy Lake (also known as Lake Bael Bael) on Fenton's station. Expedition naturalist Ludwig Becker noted the site's abundant grass, good water, and saltbush, providing a welcome respite after the wet conditions; the party camped there, discovering a large jew-lizard on a felled tree. Interactions with local settlers like Fenton were hospitable, though the station was unprepared for visitors, offering basic provisions amid the expedition's logistical strains. The passage through Kerang served as a key supply point, allowing resupply and rest en route to and beyond into , while providing one of the earliest European records of the region's riverine and lacustrine geography, including the Loddon River's flow and adjacent wetlands. These observations contributed to mapping efforts, highlighting the area's potential for future settlement despite challenging terrain. The expedition's brief stay left a lasting legacy in Kerang, with historical markers commemorating the events, including a plaque at Tragowel Station dedicated in 2010 for the 150th anniversary, detailing the camp's dates and weather, and another at Reedy Lake noting the arrival on September 4, 1860. These sites underscore the expedition's role in regional , though the overall journey ended tragically with Burke and Wills' deaths in 1861.

Natural Environment

Wetlands and ecosystems

The Kerang Wetlands form a vital component of the North Victorian Wetlands, encompassing 23 distinct lakes, marshes, and swamps spanning approximately 9,419 hectares along the lower reaches of the Loddon and Avoca Rivers and Gunbower Creek. These wetlands, designated as a of international importance in 1982, include prominent features such as Reedy Lake, Middle Lake, Third Reedy Lake, Little Lake Charm, and Racecourse Lake, with water levels influenced by natural river flows and irrigation diversions from the Murray-Darling Basin. The systems exhibit a gradient from freshwater to hypersaline conditions, with depths ranging from 1 to 8.4 meters and areas varying between 46 and 984 hectares, supporting a mosaic of permanent and seasonal habitats. The ecosystems of the Kerang Wetlands are characterized by expansive riverine floodplains that sustain diverse vegetation communities adapted to periodic inundation and drying cycles. Dominant flora includes river red gums () forming open woodlands along watercourses, interspersed with black box (Eucalyptus largiflorens) and tangled lignum (Duma florulenta) shrublands in more saline areas, alongside reed beds of common reed () and chenopod grasslands. Over 150 indigenous plant species contribute to this , with and dictating community distribution—fresher sites favor red gum and reed assemblages, while salt-tolerant chenopods prevail in hypersaline zones. These floodplains play a crucial role in the Murray-Darling Basin by facilitating water retention, nutrient cycling, and salt export, buffering downstream river systems against variability in flows from upstream catchments. Biodiversity in the Kerang Wetlands is exceptionally high, particularly for avifauna, with 86 wetland-dependent bird recorded, including over 50 waterbirds that utilize the site for breeding and foraging. The wetlands serve as a critical for colonial-nesting , hosting significant ibis rookeries at Middle Lake and Hird Swamp, where tens of thousands of pairs of (Threskiornis spinicollis) and (Threskiornis molucca) breed annually, representing major portions of Victoria's breeding populations—such as 45% of in peak years. Other notable birds include great egrets (Ardea modesta), royal spoonbills (Platalea regia), and freckled ducks (Stictonetta naevosa), with average annual waterbird counts exceeding 31,000 individuals from 1979 to 2003. Aquatic fauna further enriches the ecosystems, with native fish like (Maccullochella peelii)—a top predator reaching up to 1.8 meters—and (Macquaria ambigua), alongside common yabbies (Cherax destructor) in shallower margins, supporting food webs that extend to avian and reptilian . Environmental challenges, including salinity intrusion and prolonged droughts, pose ongoing threats to these ecosystems. Salinity levels vary widely, from less than 500 electrical conductivity (EC) in freshwater lagoons like Little Lake Charm to over 100,000 EC in hypersaline basins such as Lake Tutchewop and Lake Cullen, where elevated has degraded cover and reduced suitability for sensitive . Drought periods, such as the Millennium Drought (1997–2009), have led to widespread drying of unregulated wetlands like the Avoca Marshes, diminishing waterbird breeding success and altering dynamics by favoring salt-tolerant plants over red gums and reeds. These stressors, exacerbated by climate variability, disrupt natural wetting-drying cycles essential for ecosystem health in the Murray-Darling Basin context.

Conservation efforts

The Kerang Wetlands , encompassing 23 lakes and swamps covering approximately 9,419 hectares, was designated under the in 1982 as a of international importance for its role in supporting waterbird habitats and . Management of the site is shared among multiple agencies, including Parks Victoria, which oversees conservation reserves and develops management plans; Goulburn-Murray Water, responsible for environmental watering; the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action; and the Gannawarra Shire Council, which coordinates local implementation and community liaison. These entities collaborate under the Victorian government's North Central Catchment Management Authority (NCCMA) framework to maintain ecological integrity while addressing threats like altered . Key initiatives have focused on restoring health following environmental stresses. Post the Millennium Drought (1997–2009), which severely reduced water levels and salinity balances in many , restoration projects emphasized reinstating natural watering regimes; for instance, the Goulburn-Murray Water Connection Project bypassed saline storages like Third Reedy Lake to improve freshwater delivery and habitat recovery. rookery monitoring programs, particularly at Middle Lake, track colonial nesting events of species like the , using ecological surveys and eDNA sampling to inform watering schedules and predator control, with partnerships between NCCMA and enhancing data collection since 2020. Following the severe 2022 floods in the Gannawarra Shire, which inundated and damaged infrastructure, flood mitigation efforts included levee rehabilitation planning for Kerang township and low-level weir proposals on the Loddon River to divert excess flows, funded by state government allocations. Community involvement plays a vital role in sustaining these efforts. Local groups such as the Wetland Revival Trust engage residents through education programs, including workshops on native planting and wetland ecology, reaching schools and volunteers to foster awareness of conservation needs. These activities integrate with irrigation district sustainability by promoting water-efficient practices in the Kerang irrigation area, such as rabbit control and revegetation to reduce erosion and support health, as outlined in NCCMA's community action plans. Recent developments emphasize adaptation amid shifting Basin conditions. The 2017–2025 Kerang Wetlands Action incorporates strategies like enhanced environmental flows to build resilience against drier conditions, backed by a $222 million Victorian investment in waterway health. As of 2025, an additional $20.65 million has been allocated for management through 2028, supporting these strategies. Broader allocation reforms under the Murray-Darling Basin , reviewed in 2021 and set for further evaluation in 2026, prioritize sustainable diversions to protect like Kerang by adjusting entitlements for while securing ecological needs, addressing projected reductions in inflows due to variability.

Demographics and Society

Population statistics

As of the , Kerang had a of 3,960 residents. The demographic composition shows a age of 51 years, notably higher than Victoria's state of 38, with 23.7% of residents aged 65 and over, 59.8% aged 15-64, and 16.5% under 15. Ethnically, the population is predominantly Australian-born at 86.3%, with top ancestries including English (45.5%) and Australian (43.3%); the Indigenous comprises about 3.9%. Historically, Kerang's population grew from 109 residents in 1871 to over 2,000 by the 1920s, reaching a mid-20th-century peak before experiencing rural decline; recent trends show stabilization and slight rebound due to its appeal as a regional hub. Socioeconomic indicators include a weekly household income of $1,006 and an rate of 5.1% among the labour force, supporting in local and services.

Community life

The community of Kerang is characterized by a vibrant array of cultural events that foster local pride and participation. The annual Kerang Show, organized by the Kerang and District Agricultural Society, serves as a major highlight on the local calendar, featuring agricultural displays, animal judging, entertainment, and family activities over two days in early October. Horse racing at the Kerang Racecourse, managed by the Kerang Turf Club, hosts two significant meetings each year, drawing crowds for races, fashion, and social gatherings that emphasize the town's equestrian heritage. Indigenous cultural recognition is prominent through events like the Gannawarra Reconciliation Week Walk, which includes flag-raising ceremonies, educational sessions, and community marches to honor First Nations history and ongoing reconciliation efforts. Sports and recreation play a central role in community engagement, with the Kerang Football Netball Club serving as a cornerstone institution. Formed in 1996 from the merger of Kerang Rovers and Appin clubs, the Kerang Blues compete in the Central Murray Football Netball League, offering teams in Australian Rules football and netball for various age groups and promoting physical activity and team spirit. Additional facilities include the Kerang Golf Club, which provides an 18-hole course for golfers of all skill levels amid scenic rural surroundings, and the skatepark at Atkinson Park, a hub for youth recreation featuring BMX and skateboarding sessions. The Kerang Outdoor Swimming Pool operates seasonally from November to March, complemented by a year-round indoor exercise pool, offering safe spaces for swimming, aqua aerobics, and family outings. Education in Kerang is supported by key institutions that emphasize holistic development in a rural context. Kerang , established in 1874, caters to students from preparatory to year six with a curriculum focused on , , and involvement, recently celebrating its 150th anniversary. Kerang Secondary College provides secondary education through to , offering (VCE) programs, vocational training, and pathways to further studies or employment, with a strong emphasis on student wellbeing. Health services are delivered by Kerang District Health, a rural facility providing acute hospital care, general practice, allied health therapies, and aged care residential options at its Glenarm site, ensuring accessible medical support for residents. Kerang's social dynamics reflect the tight-knit nature of its rural setting, where volunteerism and cultural activities strengthen communal bonds. The Kerang Neighbourhood House coordinates volunteer-led programs, including craft groups, social chats, and support services, enabling residents to contribute to local initiatives and build networks. The arts scene is nurtured through Creative Gannawarra, which facilitates exhibitions, art salons for collaboration, and public displays that encourage creative expression among community members. In this small rural town, such activities scale to the population's size, creating inclusive opportunities that enhance daily life without relying heavily on external economic drivers.

Economy

Agriculture and primary industries

Kerang's economy has long been anchored in irrigation-dependent , which forms the backbone of its primary industries. The region supports a diverse range of activities, including production focused on sheep and , grain cropping such as and , for , and the cultivation of hay for fodder. These sectors benefit from the fertile plains of the Murray-Darling Basin, where irrigation enables high-yield farming despite the . farming, particularly sheep for and and for and , accounts for a significant portion of output, with sheep prominent for fine production and breeds like Angus and used in operations. production, dominated by and in the drier Mallee areas and supplemented by irrigated oats and peas, underpins local feed supplies and export markets. includes vegetable crops like tomatoes, yielding around 70,000 tonnes annually in the shire, while hay is grown extensively for domestic feed and international export from Kerang. The irrigation infrastructure, centered on the Kerang Weir and associated channels, is pivotal to these industries, supplying water to over 100,000 hectares of farmland. Constructed as part of the broader Torrumbarry Irrigation System in the 1920s, the weir regulates flows from the Murray River via the upstream Torrumbarry Weir, diverting 300,000 to 500,000 megalitres annually for agricultural use in areas including Kerang, Cohuna, and Swan Hill. Historical development traces back to the 1880s, following the Water Conservation Act of 1881, which spurred government-led schemes after early private irrigation efforts began in the Kerang district as early as 1863—the likely first such project in Victoria. By 1906, local irrigation trusts were consolidated under the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission, expanding channels and storage to support systematic farming. Modern enhancements, including automated channels and subsurface drip systems, draw from the Murray and Loddon Rivers, as well as storages like Kangaroo Lake, to optimize water delivery. Key processing industries include dairy, with approximately 60,000 cows milked across average herds of 260 in the Kerang area, supporting local and export-oriented production. Wool processing stems from Merino flocks, contributing to Victoria's second-largest wool output statewide. Local grower cooperatives facilitate marketing for specialized products like nuts and olives, while broader agricultural markets, including the Kerang Community Market, connect producers to regional and Asian buyers for grains, hay, and horticultural goods. These networks enhance value addition through on-site processing and trade. Challenges in the sector revolve around and management within the Murray-Darling Basin. Prolonged droughts, such as those from 1997 to 2010, have reduced allocations and dried wetlands, impacting reliability and crop yields. issues arise from rising and drainage practices, with disposal into evaporation basins like Lake Tutchewop elevating electrical conductivity to around 100,000 EC by the 1990s, threatening and . Efforts to mitigate these include improved on-farm efficiency and basin-wide reforms to balance agricultural demands with environmental sustainability.

Renewable energy and modern developments

Kerang and the surrounding Gannawarra Shire have emerged as key hubs for in northern Victoria, driven by the region's abundant sunlight and supportive policy frameworks. The Gannawarra Solar Farm, located 13 kilometers west of Kerang, represents a flagship project in this transition. Became operational in 2018, it was Australia's largest integrated solar photovoltaic and battery storage facility at the time, with a 60 MW DC capacity comprising over 170,000 single-axis tracking panels. The co-located Gannawarra Energy Storage System adds a 25 MW / 50 MWh , enabling efficient energy dispatch and grid stability by storing excess solar generation for periods. This setup generates approximately 119 GWh annually, sufficient to power around 19,000 average Australian homes and offset over 109,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year. The solar farm's development has spurred further renewable expansions in the region, including proposed and additional solar projects. The Cannie Wind Farm, planned 25 kilometers northwest of Kerang, aims to install up to 174 turbines with a potential capacity of 1.3 GW, pending environmental approvals and grid upgrades expected by 2029. As of November 2025, it remains in the environmental assessment phase. Complementary solar initiatives, such as the 161 MW Kerang Solar and Battery Energy System (BESS) hybrid project (161 MW solar with 55 MW / 110 MWh battery), are in pre- phases with construction targeted to commence in late 2025, enhancing the area's renewable portfolio. Following the severe floods of October 2022 to January 2023, which inundated over 40% of the shire, recovery efforts have included investments in resilient infrastructure, such as upgraded drainage and energy systems to better integrate renewables amid climate risks. Economically, these projects have diversified the shire's reliance on by fostering job growth and local business opportunities. The Gannawarra Solar Farm alone created between 80 and 200 construction jobs during its build phase and supports around 30 ongoing operational roles, with additional indirect employment in supply chains. Overall, large-scale renewables in the shire contribute to economic resilience, bolstering the local GDP through sustained revenue from energy exports and community benefit funds. Looking ahead, Kerang's renewable sector aligns with Victoria's ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, supported by state initiatives like Renewable Energy Zones that prioritize solar and integration in northern Victoria. These developments complement use by utilizing marginal or leased farmland, while synergies with conservation efforts enhance through reduced emissions and habitat-friendly project designs.

Infrastructure and Transport

Road and rail networks

Kerang serves as a key junction for regional in northern Victoria, located at the intersection of the Murray Valley Highway (B400) and the Loddon Valley Highway (B260). The Murray Valley Highway provides essential east-west connectivity, linking Kerang to approximately 60 kilometers to the west and about 80 kilometers to the east, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers across the districts. These routes are maintained by and support daily commuter and commercial traffic, with recent upgrades enhancing safety and capacity along the Loddon Valley Highway near Kerang. The town's rail infrastructure is anchored by the Swan Hill line, which was extended from to Kerang and opened on 25 1884, forming part of the broader Piangil railway line network. Passenger services are operated by , offering two daily trains to Melbourne's Southern Cross Station via , with journey times around 4 hours; these services connect Kerang residents to urban centers for work, education, and healthcare. Freight operations on the line primarily transport from local silos, with occasional shipments supporting the agricultural economy, though rail usage for has increased following state investments in track upgrades. A tragic event underscoring the importance of rail safety occurred on 5 June 2007, when 8042 collided with a at a level crossing on the Murray Valley Highway near Kerang, resulting in 11 fatalities and 23 injuries. The incident, investigated by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, prompted significant safety reforms, including enhanced audio and visual warning systems at level crossings, improved signage, and mandatory training for drivers and rail operators across Victoria. These changes have contributed to a decline in similar accidents nationwide. Overall, Kerang's road and rail networks play a vital role in sustaining the local economy by enabling efficient of agricultural products to markets.

Aviation and other facilities

Kerang Airport, located approximately 1.5 nautical miles southeast of the town center, serves as the primary aviation facility for the region. It features a sealed asphalt (14/32) measuring 1,067 meters in length, alongside a secondary (05/23) of 691 meters, supporting operations for . The airport provides fueling services including 100LL and JET A1, available through Aero Refuellers, and is equipped for activities such as private flights and recreational flying. Officially opened in February 1938 by the Minister for Lands in front of around 5,000 attendees, the facility has since undergone upgrades, including a 2014 reseal, widening, and enhanced lighting to improve safety and accessibility. The airport also accommodates emergency medical services, with nearby Kerang Hospital featuring a dedicated heliport for helicopter landings in support of regional air ambulance operations. Access to the airport is facilitated by local road connections, enhancing its role in broader transport integration. Public utilities in Kerang include water supply sourced primarily from the Murray and Loddon Rivers, regulated by the Kerang Weir on the Loddon River, with treatment handled at a dedicated plant operated by Lower Murray Water to meet Australian drinking water guidelines. Emergency services are provided by the Kerang Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigade, which responds to fires, accidents, and hazmat incidents, and the Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) Kerang Unit, focusing on flood, storm, and rescue operations. Waste management is managed by Gannawarra Shire Council through kerbside collections for general waste and recycling, supplemented by four transfer stations that accept recyclables, green waste, and landfill materials for regional disposal. Electricity infrastructure integrates with the national grid and benefits from nearby renewable projects, including the Gannawarra Solar Farm (50 MW AC), capable of powering approximately 25,000 households, and connects directly to the local network, alongside the adjacent Gannawarra Energy Storage System featuring a 25 MW / 50 MWh battery for grid stability. Telecommunications coverage in Kerang includes 4G and 5G from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone, with Telstra providing the most extensive regional reach at over 98% population coverage in Victoria as of 2025. Recent developments at the airport include proposals for small-scale facilities to support operations, while broader regional connectivity enhancements, such as planned drone-compatible adjustments under national aviation policies, aim to enable future activities for and monitoring.

References

  1. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/document-resources/tourism/historic-kerang.pdf
  2. https://abs.gov.au/census/find-census-data/quickstats/2021/215031402
  3. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Invest-in-the-Gannawarra/Industry-Profile/Agriculture
  4. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/History/Shire-of-Kerang
  5. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/History/Borough-of-Kerang
  6. https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/gannawarra
  7. https://vfa.vic.gov.au/recreational-fishing/victorias-top-fishing-destinations/sunset-country/where-to-fish-sunset-country/kerang-lakes
  8. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Parks-Recreation/Kerang-Atkinson-Park
  9. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/News-Media/Kerang-CBDs-transformation-complete
  10. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/document-resources/tourism/2023-gannawarra-visitor-guide.pdf
  11. https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0024/354606/Att2_Goschen-Project-Targeted-Conservation-Significant-Fauna.pdf
  12. https://www.water.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0034/675097/northern-victoria-long-term-watering-plan-minor-update.pdf
  13. https://www.mdba.gov.au/basin/landscapes/rivers-wetlands-and-floodplains
  14. https://rsis.ramsar.org/RISapp/files/RISrep/AU265RIS_1907_en.pdf
  15. https://victorianplaces.com.au/kerang
  16. https://www.g-mwater.com.au/water-operations/storages/murray/lakeboga
  17. https://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_080023.shtml
  18. http://www.eldersweather.com.au/climate-history/vic/kerang
  19. https://www.climatechangeinaustralia.gov.au/en/changing-climate/state-climate-statements/victoria/
  20. https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/climate-and-weather/agriculture-and-climate-change
  21. https://northcentral.rcs.vic.gov.au/themes/traditional-owners/barapa-barapa-and-wamba-wemba/
  22. https://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/media-events/news/cultural-heritage-works-kerang/
  23. https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/kerang
  24. https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%257CA172516110&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=00766232&p=AONE&sw=w
  25. https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/articles/2288
  26. https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/kerang-20040208-gdkqtf.html
  27. http://home.vicnet.net.au/~kerangfh/group-resources/Kerang-Timeline-1836-1982.pdf
  28. https://www.nma.gov.au/defining-moments/resources/burke-and-wills
  29. http://www.burkeandwills.net.au/Brief_History/Chapter_04.htm
  30. https://www.monumentaustralia.org/themes/landscape/exploration/display/100648-150th-anniversary-burke-and-wills-expedition-camp-12
  31. http://www.burkeandwills.net.au/Journals/Ludwig_Becker/Beckers_First_Report.htm
  32. http://www.burkeandwills.net.au/Expedition_Map/406761-BurkeWillsSept2006.kmz
  33. https://rsis.ramsar.org/ris/265
  34. https://rsis.ramsar.org/RISapp/files/4552945/documents/AU265_ECD1510.pdf
  35. https://www.dcceew.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/17-ris.pdf
  36. https://www.water.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0031/672808/Kerang-Wetlands-Ramsar-Site-Ecological-Character-Description-Addendum.pdf
  37. https://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/media/documents/kerang_wetlands_action_plan_2017_-_final_low_res.pdf
  38. https://www.g-mwater.com.au/downloads/gmw/connections/Planning_Environment/Special_Projects/NCCMA-57031_-_Kerang_Lakes_Water_Savings_Project_Literature_Review_September_2011_V4_a.pdf
  39. https://www.dcceew.gov.au/water/wetlands/publications/ris-kerang-lakes
  40. https://vgls.sdp.sirsidynix.net.au/client/search/asset/1010795
  41. https://opal.latrobe.edu.au/articles/report/Development_and_application_of_an_ecological_monitoring_and_mapping_program_for_targeted_Kerang_lakes/22240471
  42. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/News-Media/Funding-for-Kerang-flood-protection-levee-rehabilitation-planning
  43. https://wetlandrevivaltrust.org/
  44. https://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/media/documents/nccma-46574_-_kerang_ramsar_-_rabbit_project_fact_sheet_-_march_2011.pdf
  45. https://www.water.vic.gov.au/waterways/wetlands
  46. https://www.mdba.gov.au/sites/default/files/publications/climate-change-discussion-paper-feb-19.pdf
  47. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Events-Activities/2025-Kerang-Show
  48. https://country.racing.com/kerang
  49. https://www.reconciliation.org.au/event/gannawarra-reconciliation-week-walk/
  50. https://kerangfnc.com.au/about/
  51. https://www.melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/the-top-family-activities-and-playgrounds-in-the-gannawarra-shire-region
  52. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Tourism-Events-and-Recreation/Swimming-pools
  53. https://www.kerangps.vic.edu.au/
  54. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2009-09-24/kerang-school-awaits-secondary-expansion-nod/1439950
  55. https://www.kdh.org.au/
  56. https://www.kerangnh.org.au/artcraft.html
  57. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Tourism-Events-and-Recreation/Creative-Gannawarra
  58. https://www.dcceew.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/17-ecd.pdf
  59. https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/kerang-shire
  60. https://www.gentari.com.au/project/gannawarra-solar-farm/
  61. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-06-14/australias-largest-solar-and-battery-farm-opens-in-kerang/11209666
  62. https://arena.gov.au/projects/gannawarra-energy-storage-system/
  63. https://www.cannie-windfarm.com/
  64. https://acepower.com.au/kerang-hybrid/
  65. https://acepower.com.au/kerang-solar-bess-aemo-approval/
  66. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/News-Media/The-Gannawarras-flood-recovery-continues
  67. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/document-resources/emergency-management/endorsed-gannawarra-community-resilience-flood-recovery-action-plan-2023-2025-reviewed-30-june-2024.pdf
  68. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/Invest-in-the-Gannawarra/Industry-Profile/Large-Scale-Solar-Development
  69. https://www.viccouncils.asn.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/21491/Case-study-Gannawarra-solar-farm-Oct-2018.pdf
  70. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/News-Media/Council-Department-of-Transport-and-Planning-work-on-road-priorities
  71. https://www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/our-council/plans-strategies-documents/plans-strategies/transport-regional_transport_strategy.pdf
  72. https://vicsig.net/infrastructure/location/Kerang
  73. https://www.vline.com.au/getattachment/792ec924-a61b-4102-8892-097f8b6072fc/Swan-Hill-Melbourne
  74. https://www.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-09/delivering-the-goods_1.pdf
  75. https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/resources/transport-train-and-truck-collision-kerang-2007/
  76. https://www.atsb.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/29489/annual_review_07.pdf
  77. https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/new-warning-systems-needed-for-level-crossings-in-wake-of-kerang-rail-tragedy/news-story/2d19eb309e8eb3df4b14d18d79383153
  78. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/11150236
  79. https://australianaviation.com.au/2014/07/victoria-govt-contributes-to-kerang-improvements/
  80. https://www.sma-australia.com.au/success-stories/gannawarra-solar-farm-victoria
  81. https://www.powersensor.com.au/case-studies-powersensor/the-gannawarra-energy-storage-system-australia
  82. https://www.mobilecoverageaustralia.com/vic/kerang
  83. https://www.telstra.com.au/coverage-networks/our-coverage
  84. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/News-Media/Small-scale-energy-generation-facilities-one-step-closer
  85. https://www.lmw.vic.gov.au/water-supply-and-services/water-supply-and-management/
  86. https://accounts.water.vic.gov.au/2023/local-water-reports/water-supply-by-water-corporation/lower-murray-water/kerang/
  87. https://www.vewh.vic.gov.au/healthy-waterways/northern-region/loddon-river-system
  88. https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/
  89. https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/
  90. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/My-Property/Waste/Transfer-Stations
  91. https://www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au/My-Property/Waste/Kerbside-Waste-and-Recycling-Collection
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.