Finke River (Larapinta)

The Finke River, known to the Arrernte people as Larapinta, is considered the world’s oldest river system, with origins dating back hundreds of millions of years. It is a major intermittent river of central Australia, notable for its ancient geological history.
Key Points:
Located in central Australia
A major intermittent river (flows mainly after rainfall)
Origin: MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory
Formed by the confluence of Davenport Creek and Ormiston Creek
Length: About 600 km
Flows south-eastwards towards the Simpson Desert in South Australia
Often appears as a chain of waterholes
Becomes a fast-flowing river after heavy rains
During major floods, waters may reach the Macumba River and eventually Lake Eyre
Considered the oldest river in the world
Geological evidence dates the river system to the Devonian or Carboniferous period
Important tributaries include Ellery Creek and the Palmer and Hugh Rivers