Bank On A Good Break On The Mighty Murray

The Age

Saturday May 7, 2005

LILY BRAGGE

FOR those who've become addicted to the glorious Indian summer that was April and early this month in Melbourne, you can keep the habit going with a trip to the riverside towns of Moama and Echuca.

Just over two hours' drive from the city, the average temperature there at this time of year is about 25 degrees. Warm and sunny days combined with cool-to-chilly nights make for a good combination.

One of the best ways to experience the river-port region, its surrounding bush and the magnificent Murray River is to take a trip on one of seven paddle steamers.

Ranging from the humble to charmingly rustic, the loveliest lady in the fleet is the Emmylou. You can book a weekend on her (overnight stays of one or two nights) or cruises that range between one and two hours. Fully licensed a la carte dining is available and there is also a nightly campfire under the stars.

Local tourism manager Maureen Bennett recommends that for anyone visiting for the first time, your best bet is to head down into Echuca, get onto the wharf and try out "the whole wharf experience". There are plenty of curiosities and displays around the docks, including steam demonstrations, a working blacksmith and wood turner.

Sharp's Magic Movie House and Antique Penny Arcade show old black-and-white films and documentaries daily.

All the paddle steamers and boats (including some for hire), operate from the port.

Bennett says two of the most popular cruises are the Perricoota wine district tour on the Murray - a guided winery tour that includes lunch and tastings at five cellar doors.

The other is a two-hour cruise through wetlands of international importance in the world's largest red-gum forest. Featuring many species of birds in their nests and feeding habitats, it is a 30-minute drive from Echuca-Moama and bookings are required. -- LILY BRAGGE

GETTING THERE

Take the Hume Highway to the Kilmore turn-off, which becomes the Northern Highway, and turn right at Heathcote, going straight through to Moama-Echuca.

For information, phone 1800 804 446 or visit: www.moamaechuca.com

© 2005 The Age

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