Paddle Steamers on Murray River

Paddle Steamers on Murray River - Echuca visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Paddle Steamers on Murray River' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Victoria.

Panorama of historic paddle steamers on Australia's Murray River.

Echuca is a boom town which grew to major significance as Australia's largest inland port following the 1850s when riverboat transport revolutionised trade, exploration, agriculture and development of this region. Being the closest point on the arterial Murray River to the coastal city of Melbourne, paddle steamers singularly catalysed and sustained the growth of trade which shaped this region.

Road and rail connections later made trade easier over land but in their time, these paddle steamers and barges serving the communities along the Murray River were crucial throughout the Gold Rush and in establishing trade.

Recreational cruises along the Murray River, through the Koondrook and Millewa State Forests are offered by today's paddle steamers. Glimpse into the rich cultural and economic history of Echuca as relaxing guided tours take visitors back along one of the most beautiful, and important, rivers in Australia.