The Macleay River in Kempsey Shire Council, Australia, is a mature barrier-dominated estuary system. Its floodplain contains approximately 15% of NSW's total coastal floodplain wetlands, with significant areas of mangroves, seagrass, and saltmarsh. The estuary is broken into distinct process zones, with the marine flood tide zone extending from Jerseyville Bridge to the river mouth, indicating this lower section is dominated by tidal influences. For paddlers, key access points include the Jerseyville Boat Ramp, located adjacent to Rotary Park near the Jerseyville bridge, which has received upgrades including a floating pontoon. Another launch is at Stuarts Point Holiday Park, where kayaks can be hired. In Kempsey, paddlers can launch from Riverside Park, which features a multi-level timber wharf designed for access across the tide range. A common paddling route begins in Kempsey, proceeding through long pools and gentle rapids amidst pastoral scenery. The river is also used by the Kempsey Macleay Dragon Boat Club, indicating sections are suitable for group paddling. Wildlife sightings can include azure kingfishers, various waterfowl, turtles, carpet snakes, and in the estuarine sections, blue spotted lagoon rays, bream, and flathead. The river holds Aboriginal significance, with evidence of occupation for up to 4000 years, and is celebrated through community events like the Macleay River Festival. The entrance to the river is located at South West Rocks, a high-energy ocean wave setting historically serviced by a pilot boat, suggesting potential for strong tidal currents and wave action near the mouth.