Murray River to Lake Cargelligo

Water is the theme today and this blog covers two days.

First, yesterday, we spent the day at Echuca. It was a day I was really looking forward too... first we were going on a paddle steamer, and second we were looking forward to exploring the old port.

The paddle steamer didn’t disappoint. We joined the PS Canberra at 2.30pm for a hour-long cruise up and down the river. This beautifully restored vessel is run by steam and the engine is exposed so you can see every piston movement and the smell of wood smoke permeates.

We sat on the upper deck, right on the bow, watching the Murray River Ensign flapping before us as we rounded each bend with a ‘toot toot’ to warn vessels coming the other way. When we turned and headed for home kids were allowed a go at the wheel. As you should be aware, I am just one big kid so, once the little tikes had a go, I was next in line. I hogged the wheel for a bend or so and what a thrill it was!

I found Echuca surprisingly disappointing. The wharf area is certainly beautiful, but the overly kitsch and commercial nature of the old port left me wanting. For instance, there’s a lovely looking self-guided walk of the dock area which takes in the museums and waterfront boardwalk, but you need to pay for it... which seems a little money-grabbing. We certainly enjoyed the cheese shop, bakery and the ice cream shop though!

The highlight for both of us was seeing the Pervensey which is the vessel used in All the River Runs. Although we didn’t actually get onboard (we had chosen another company), it was wonderful to see her as she passed, and this distance afforded us wonderful photos.

Today we were up early (by VIC standards) and on the road by 9.30. We had a long drive ahead to Lake Cargelligo, somewhere new. Along the way we stopped at Jerilderie where Ned Kelly delivered his manifesto to the printer, and Narrandera where we strummed the largest playable guitar in the world. We even had time for a strawberry slice at The Big Strawberry.

Lake Cargelligo is like an oasis in the middle of the golden plains. We are staying at Lake View Caravan Park. It, and the area, attracts numerous ski boats, and apparently has been an aboriginal settlement for eons. Pete (another resident at the caravan park) is a real ambassador to the region and gave us a wonderfully concise visitor guide spiel. He also came over armed with ant spray just at the moment we were about to retreat into the tent, hopping all the way. Thanks Pete!