The Yarra River rises in the Great Dividing Range of south central Victoria, flowing west past the towns of Warburton and Warrandyte, until it cuts through Melbourne, where it empties into Hobsons Bay. The upper course contains scenic areas, with woodlands, dairy farms, and vineyards. The Upper Yarra Dam holds back a reservoir that supplies Melbourne with water. The river's lower reaches were formerly swampy, but they have been reclaimed and now contain Melbourne's docks and factories. The river's name is an Aboriginal word meaning "running water". …
