Fishermans Reach crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
39 recorded in this period, compared with 27 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Fishermans Reach
Fishermans Reach is a small rural locality situated in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, within the Kempsey Shire local government area and bearing the postcode 2441. Geographically, the area is defined by its low-lying coastal plain environment, positioned near the Macleay River as it approaches the Pacific Ocean. Due to its sparse population and rural-residential nature, demographic data for Fishermans Reach is largely subsumed within the broader Kempsey statistical region, with residents typically comprising families, retirees, and individuals drawn to a quiet lifestyle close to waterways and national parks.
Local life in Fishermans Reach is strongly connected to the natural environment, with the surrounding waterways providing ample opportunities for recreational fishing, boating, and kayaking. Because of its small size, the locality lacks major commercial amenities or retail centres; residents rely on nearby towns such as Gladstone and Smithtown for basic services, while the larger regional hub of Kempsey provides comprehensive shopping, healthcare, and educational facilities. Transport connectivity is maintained via local rural roads linking to the Pacific Highway corridor.
Historically, the development of Fishermans Reach and the wider Macleay Valley was tied to the timber industry, agriculture, and river-based transport in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The region originally formed part of the traditional lands of the Dunghutti (Thunggutti) Aboriginal people, who maintained a deep connection to the rich river systems and coastal resources. Over time, European settlement transformed the floodplain into agricultural holdings, while the locality's name enduringly reflects its historical reliance on the river's abundant fishing resources.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 6 | 3 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 6 | 3 |
| Malicious damage to property | 5 | 3 |
| Assault Police | 4 | 0 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 4 | 2 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 4 | 1 |
| Other theft | 3 | 2 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 3 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 2 | 1 |
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 1 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 1 | 0 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 144 residents. This is not a current population estimate.
Sources and interpretation
These are police-recorded incident or victim counts, not every unreported incident or a prediction of personal safety. Percentage changes are not tests of statistical significance; small counts need particular care.