During the Federal Conventions of 1897-98 colonies intensely debated control of the Murray waters and the rights of each state under a new federal government. For South Australia, the concern was that users upstream were taking water out of the Murray-Darling system with scant regard for the effect downstream. South Australian delegates argued strongly the case for national control regarding navigation. In opposition, the Premier of New South Wales, George Reid, moved that any state or individual should not be stopped from utilising river waters for irrigation or conservation.

This cartoon depicts George Reid bathing in the middle of the River Murray and stating 'There is only room for one colony in this stream' while South Australian delegates - Charles Cameron Kingston, Josiah Symon and John Downer - look on longingly.

The prospect of Federation brought some promise of a more unified approach to River Murray issues, but federal constitutional responsibility was not awarded, and control of a national resource that crosses three state boundaries essentially remained with the state governments. Today, most would agree that the River Murray is under serious threat without a national approach to improve its health and regulate water usage. State and federal governments continue to be divided on what can be done about the river's problems, who has control of the waters and who has responsibility for rehabilitation of the dwindling waterway.

Downer, John, Sir, 1844-1915

Kingston, Charles Cameron, 1850-1908

Reid, G. H. (George Houstoun), 1845-1918

Symon, Josiah, Sir, 1846-1934

Murray River (N.S.W.-S. Aust.)

Eastburn, David. The River Murray: history at a glance: Murray-Darling Basin heritage, Canberra, A.C.T.: Murray-Darling Basin Commission, 1990

Australian Government Department of the Environment and Water Resources

Downstream: the River Murray in South Australia See: Who 'owns' the Murray?

Murray-Darling Basin Commission

River Murray Urban Users

Save the Murray