There have been a number of studies previously undertaken on the bed dynamics and geomorphology of the lower Macleay River and its floodplain. These include broader assessments covering the entire lower Macleay River below the tidal limit at Belgrave Falls. Other investigations concentrate on the Macleay River in and around Kempsey. These more localised studies have typically focussed on the value of channel improvements (e.g. dredging works) to assist in the reduction of flood levels.

The aim of the current study is to identify any morphological trends in the Macleay River channel for the reach between the Kempsey Railway Bridge and Frederickton. This particular reach is located within the fluvial zone of the Macleay estuary.

For the present study, morphologic trends were determined through the collation and analysis of available hydrosurvey. Hydraulic modelling was also undertaken to quantify the potential impacts of observed bed changes in terms of flood levels.