The river is flowing for the community of Wilcannia in far-western New South Wales for the first time in years.

Locals say upstream agriculture took precedence over environmental and social needs as the Darling (Baaka) River ran dry from drought and alleged over-extraction. The dire situation has led to protests and blockades in the past.

Flooding rain in northern NSW and Queensland and decent rain locally mean the dry riverbed is now full again.

The town is home to many Barkindji people, whose culture is largely based on the river traditionally known as the Baaka.

A local elder told the ABC that the new flows are “like bloody treasure coming down for us”.

There was so much excitement in the town that teachers brought young students to see the water arrive on their lunch break.

Residents have relied on drinking water donations or barely palatable bore water since the river dried up.

The local council says current flows indicate secure supplies for at least 12 months.

The Barkindji people say they will continue to demand change in how the government prioritises water needs in the Murray-Darling system.