Echuca - historic inland river port
Echuca's proximity to Melbourne and its location on the Murray River were key factors in its development as the largest inland port in Australia. From the 1860s to the close of the century, paddlesteamers carried people, supplies and goods from the Murray, Darling and Murrumbidgee districts to the Port of Echuca. From there passengers and goods were railed to Melbourne.
For many years Echuca was also the main shipbuilding centre for the river transport industry. As the shipbuilding industry grew, so did the demand for red gums and durable timber for wharf piles, railway sleepers and transport. River red gums were felled in the surrounding Barmah, Moira and Perricoota forests, and by the 1870s the district supported a dozen mills, cutting in excess of 1000 logs per week.
The depression of the 1890s and the spread of the railways to other rural towns sounded the death-knell of the riverboats. Unused and neglected, the former queens of the river lay forgotten in the water and the once mighty wharf became derelict.
Then, in 1973 the historic port become the central theme for extensive redevelopment as a major tourist town. Thanks to a dedicated group, the river once again resounds to the rhythmic beat of the wheels and haunting echo of the steam whistle as the paddlesteamers travel the local waters ... but this time purely for recreational and nostalgic purposes.
While the Murray River is still the life-blood of the region, it is mostly a playground for water sports and recreation. A thriving tourism industry has replaced timber, creating new attractions such as wineries, museums, trail rides, wetland cruises, wildlife parks, boutique shopping, restaurants, cafes and bakeries.
For many, the romance of Echuca's past has irresistible appeal, and many Festivals and special events are held throughout the year, often with a focus on the Murray and its beautiful riverboats. Many original buildings have been restored to form an attractive historic streetscape. And it was the port area's authentic appearance which attracted the makers of All The Rivers Run, who used it as the setting for their television series on the riverboat era.
For visitor and accommodation information contact the Echuca - Moama Tourism:
E-mail: emt@origin.net.au
Website: www.echucamoama.com
Telephone: 1800 804 446 1800 804 446 1800 804 446 1800 804 446 or +61 3 5480 7555 +61 3 5480 7555 +61 3 5480 7555 +61 3 5480 7555