Paddys River Falls — Attraction in Burra

This waterfall is tucked away, on the desolate and lonely road that was cut to the hydro-power stations and Kiandra.

I love the way the cliff face here has been gradually cut away. I last came here after heavy rain and the falls were thundering. There was a lot of silt in the water. This is one of those really old reserves, with the fences you really do not want to lean on. There are almost no warning signs. The lower cascades were superb and quite dangerous. The water turns a bend from this fall and goes down a natural drain hole. It looked like a whirlpool was forming above it. Two small side sprays produce different flow characteristics (and, perhaps more filtered water) compared to the main flow which is carrying some silt due to the upstream flooding.

I lived at Tumba for years, we used to come swimming here under the waterfall in summer. Both my parents taught at the local schools. My dad used to bring me here, on our way up to do cross country skiing. It was a long road trip, and snow closed roads at the top of the mountains did not help. Calling in to see the waterfall on the way was a nice tonic. I remember it as a great place to swim, and lovely at the base of the falls. I guess that these days, with this one, I would be a little more wary of what might be coming...

I have photographed Paddy's Falls in all seasons, and in my opinion, the best time to visit is a couple of weeks into Spring, when the snow is melting, and in the extreme Winter, when the Falls look spectacular covered in icicles, absolutely breathtaking. The area is facilitated with plenty of parking (even for buses), various picnic areas, and public toilets. There are a couple of viewing platforms from high above the falls, which is wheelchair friendly, although a moderately steep (well stepped), walk down to and underneath the falls. Can be extremely slippering around the rocks, so good walking shoes would be an advantage. Although the water is always cold, during the summer months, take a dip in a well formed pool at the base of the falls. Not far from the township of Tumbarumba, beautiful scenery, peace & quiet. Definitely a must...

Amazing area with lovely tracks and stunning waterfall! Paddy’s River Falls has long been a popular spot for locals and is becoming a must-see site for visitors. Lookouts located a short walk from the parking area provide perfect views of the Falls and the landscape downstream. To get a closer look, follow the walkway to the bottom. During the warmer months the cool spray of water as the Falls hit the pool and rocks below provides refreshing relief from the heat. To get there, follow the Tooma Road from Tumbarumba for 18 kilometres as it meanders through the countryside. Paddys River Falls is a 15m gushing waterfall with a deep alcove making it possible to go behind it in Kosciuszko National Park not far from Victoria. Take you family and friends there and enjoy!...