North Esk River

For similarly named rivers, see River Esk (disambiguation).

North Esk River from a bridge in Launceston

The North Esk River is a river in Tasmania, Australia. It is one of the tributaries of the Tamar River together with the South Esk River. It starts in the mountains of the states North East joining with the St Patricks River, flowing through Launceston. Launceston's Old Sea port tourist feature is located on the North Esk River. The river is not notably tidal except in the area where it joins the Tamar. It is sometimes subject to flooding, especially in East Launceston suburbs.

The famous Australian beer factory Boags draws its water from St Patricks River

The North Esk river area has a forgotten history. The East and West banks used to be swarming with Bushrangers and Aboriginal tribes which would continuously attack the settlers of the area. Further up the river, just beyond the first substantial bend known to some as 'Vermont' bend, there used to be a Punt which was active before Hobler's Bridge was built at what is now St. Leonards in 1829 by George Hobler of 'Killafaddy'. The area of North Esk was once an Electoral district. Many notable gentlemen farmers have lived on the North Esk throughout time. Some propterties of historical interest still stand on the banks of the river such as 'Braemar' and 'Vermont' just outside Launceston. Convicts were used up until the early 1850's to drain the river flats after it was cultivated so it would not deteriorate back into a swamp.

Coordinates: 41°26′S 147°08′E / 41.433°S 147.133°E / -41.433; 147.133