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Easter brings a boost for the twin towns

All smiles: Raelene Aplin and Tony Aplin, were visiting from Adelaide to the Port of Echuca. Photo by Michael Lloyd

Easter hit the sweet spot for businesses and visitors to Echuca.

Committee for Echuca Moama chief executive Chris Janson said the region received a large influx of tourists during the long weekend.

“Anecdotal evidence suggests patronage and revenue is up compared to last year,” Mr Janson said.

‘No vacancy’ signs adorned hotels throughout Echuca and Moama, with the port area a popular spot for visitors, particularly on Easter Saturday.

Tourists from South Australia and from as far as South Korea were excited to visit Echuca and ride a famous paddlesteamer while in town.

Adelaide residents Raelene and Tony Aplin were happy to be back again, having visited Echuca countless times before.

“It’s a pretty little spot,” Raelene said.

The happy couple were travelling with a tour company and said “we would come back”.

Big journey: Jin Woo Lee (left) and Jin Young Lee visiting Echuca from South Korea. Photo by Michael Lloyd

Two friends from South Korea, Jin Woo Lee and Jin Young Lee, were also in Echuca for a short stay.

The two engineers were previously in Australia while they studied engineering.

Jin Woo Lee spoke about his first time riding on a paddlesteamer.

“It was very amazing. I will remember this experience for the rest of my life,” he said.

Holiday-makers: Vikki Abbott (left) and Tony Abbott. Photo by Michael Lloyd

“I love Echuca, and one day I will have to come back with my family,” Jin Young Lee, who also rode a paddlesteamer for the first time, added.

Vikki and Tony Abbott made the trip from Wagga Wagga for the Easter long weekend.

“I came up with Vikki for a visit for Easter,” Tony said.

While the Abbotts were in town, they also visited local cafes.

“Good food and it wasn’t expensive,” he said.

“We would consider coming back.”