The Gilbert River rises near Manoora, on the Barrier Highway and flows generally south, as a broad and shallow valley through mainly undulating country, flowing through Saddleworth, Riverton, Tarlee then southwest through Stockport and Hamley Bridge.

[2] Characteristic with many Mid North streams, the Gilbert can entirely cease flowing in summer, yet be a swirling and dangerous torrent after flooding rains.

Grain cropping and grazing are carried out along its banks, which are mainly low and open.

The explorer John Hill came to it in early April 1839, and named it after Colonial storekeeper, Thomas Gilbert, who was responsible for all government stores.

The earliest pioneers were obliged to ford the river, but following the founding of the Burra mines in 1846 the Great North Road (later named the Main North Road) between Adelaide and Gawler was extended to Burra.