The celebratory cake was cut by Craig Opie from Campaspe Port Enterprise, Matthew Wilson, president of the Echuca Historical Society, and Francie Finn, from the Echuca Moama Theatre Company.
Photo by
Bruce Colyer
Port of Echuca was the place to be over the weekend as it celebrated 160 years since the railway reached Echuca in 1864.
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The introduction of the railway in Echuca meant a boost in population and allowed goods from communities along the Murray River to reach Melbourne and beyond.
The Port of Echuca and the railway’s team work had a significant impact on the development of Echuca.
Port of Echuca marketing officer Gerard Oman said it was a huge milestone and there were plenty of activities on the weekend to celebrate it.
“This was a real milestone which put the town on the map and linked the superhighway of the Murray Darling river system to the railway line straight to Melbourne,” he said.
“There was plenty to see and experience over the weekend which celebrated the 160-year anniversary of the railway reaching Echuca.”
To commemorate the significance of the railway to the community, Port of Echuca held a cake-cutting ceremony in front of the A2 train.
A range of local community groups were also present on the day to help celebrate the milestone.
Claire Copp and Francie Finn from the Echuca Moama Theatre Company dressed in period clothing. Photo: Supplied
The Echuca Moama Theatre Company transformed the port into a scene from the 1800s as members dressed in period costumes and strolled along the Esplanade.
The Echuca Moama Model Railway Club also had a display set up in the old woodturners building which gave children a chance to operate model train sets.
The Echuca Moama Model Railway Club had a display at the celebration. Photo: Supplied
There was also a 5m display that kept train enthusiasts enthralled and talking about all things railway and locomotive related to the club members.
The Echuca Vintage Machinery Club members were present and answered questions about how individual machines worked and what their original uses were in the past.
Many visitors took the chance to ride on the PS Pevensey as well as the Dookie Lions Club mini train.
The Dookie Lions Club ran mini train rides on the day. Photo: Supplied
For those who wanted a more traditional mode of transport, the Billabong ranch offered horse and cart rides that proved popular.
It was a great family friendly celebration and also kicked off the school holidays for the kids.
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