The Clyde Estuary Finally, there is the importance of the estuary of the Clyde River to the Batemans Bay community. The Clyde opens to its estuarine state more than 30kms from its mouth at Batemans Bay and from here it is navigable for larger craft. And indeed the history of the region and its development after British settlement was based on water transport on the Clyde estuary between the towns of Batemans Bay and Nelligen. Today it is a focus for recreational use in these towns. Sailing, river and ocean fishing, pleasure cruises, sailboards and the outboard motor boat all find their place in the extensive waterways of the estuary.
Oyster farming in the estuary is also an important industry to the local community.
The estuary also provides the main focus for the town of Batemans Bay. The river reaching the sea by way of the Tollgate Islands provides a backdrop to the most attractive town on the NSW south coast. Many restaurants, motels and coffee shops have been sited to make the most of this beautiful estuary, which many consider makes the Bay remain in their memories. This is our river, the unifying feature for the communities of the Clyde Coast and a natural asset that is becoming increasingly rare in a developed world. This river drains a region that will provide a unique travel experience for the nature lover.