Historic Port of Echuca

Historic Port at Echuca - Echuca visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Historic Port at Echuca' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Victoria.

Echuca was Australia's largest inland port during the late 1800s. The port is still an authentic working river port, home of the largest collection of paddle steamers directly to the river trade by extending the emerging railway system to Echuca which was the closest Murray-River town to the capital. Its arrival in 1864 further enhanced the material progress of the town with the population trebling within twelve months. The rail link also prompted the construction, in 1865, of an enormous wharf which would ultimately extend to 1.2 km.

Shipbuilding and foundries subsequently became substantial industries and Echuca further benefited from the the growing demand for local red-gum timber which proved ideal for wharves, railway sleepers, mining props and building generally. A dozen timber mills were soon in operation.