Discover history in Echuca
A few hours north of Melbourne and you're in Echuca, the beating heart of the Central Murray region. This historic inland port, once a lively place of trade and fashion, now celebrates its rich heritage year round.
Whether its a paddle steamer ride past the gums or ogling the retro cars, there's much to discover in Echuca, Victoria.
PORT OF ECHUCA DISCOVERY CENTRE
Image: Paddle steamer Emmylou on the Murray River at Echuca; Credit: Visit Victoria & Robert Blackburn
Find out more: Port of Echuca
Once a bustling hub and the largest inland port in Australia, Echuca in the 1800s was the centre of the river economy. Learn all about the ambitious ex-convict who started the town and its rich maritime history at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. Explore the river on a paddleboat cruise, see one of the original sawmills, or visit the Cargo Shed Museum to learn about life on the wharf.
NATIONAL HOLDEN MOTOR MUSEUM
Find out more: Holden Museum
If you're a true blue fan of the lion and stone, the largest Holden collection in the country should not be missed. The museum holds some of the most iconic and rare cars, all models in mint condition. Make sure to stop by the gift shop and snap up a few souvenirs for all your car-loving kids, grandkids, and a little something special for the pool room.
THE GREAT AUSSIE BEER SHED
Find out more: Great Aussie Beer Shed
Run by the lovely locals Andrea and Neil, you will love this display of a hobby gone wild. Every sliver of space is filled with beer paraphernalia: endless posters, barrels, bottles, and 3,000 beer steins. It's worth it just for the guided tour by Neil, an engaging and knowledgable fellow on all things beer (and even Australian history).
ECHUCA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Find out more: Echuca Historical Society
Ever wondered what the brides of yesteryear (c. 1900) wore on their wedding day? The Echuca Historical Society Museum is home to a collection of relics from the early days of the region. You will see photographs of early river crossings and paddle steamers, horse-drawn transport, and period clothing. The venue is one of the best parts - it's the old police station and still has a cell you can peek into.
Bonus: The society also offers guided historical town walks, if you're interested in discovering more about this Murray river town.
VISIT NEARBY NATHALIA FOR HISTORIC SITES
Image: Nathalia War Memorial; Credit: Mattinbgn from WikiCommons
Along Broken Creek, less than an hour's drive from Echuca-Moama is Nathalia, a town committed to preserving its heritage. Visit their war memorial, originally unveiled in 1927 to commemorate the brave Australians who served and lost their lives in conflict. Then, have a look through the farm machinery and other old artefacts at the Nathalia Historical Society Museum in the original 130-year-old Old Mechanics Institute.
Are you a history buff looking for your next worthwhile holiday? Book your stay today at one of our three parks in the Echuca-Moama.
