PADDLE steamer, Alexander Arbuthnot would rewrite 93 years of history if it returned to Koondrook for the opening of the Murray River wharf later this year, according to locals.
The paddle steamer was built by Arbuthnot Sawmills at Koondrook in 1916 as a barge, and named after the sawmill’s founder, Alexander Arbuthnot.
The vessel was commissioned in 1923 and then towed to Echuca for the fitting of engine, boiler and superstructure. She then commenced her new job as a working steamer and for many years she towed barges laden with red gum logs from the nearby forests for the sawmill.
The recently restored Alexander Arbuthnot is now based at the Port of Echuca.
The $2 million Murray River wharf project, near Koondrook’s Apex Park, is expected to bolster the region’s maritime tourism when it is complete in September, allowing, once again, paddle steamers to moor in the town.
The main section of the wharf is constructed using locally sourced red gum timber from the sawmill, which is currently being installed.
The wharf includes a moored pontoon, a 28-metre gangway and a series of viewing platform within the tree canopy with interpretation features.
The project will also include raised wooden decking and a resurfaced turntable which will provide a space for weddings and performances.
To the side of the wharf will be a series of concrete platform steps, which will provide access to the water for fishing and launching canoes and kayaks.
Gannawarra Shire councillor, Oscar Aertssen said the possibility of the historic paddle steamer returning to Koondrook, depending on accessibility downstream at the Torrumbarry Weir, would “cap off the whole purpose” of the project.
“It would be an amazing sight to see and observe at the opening of the wharf. What an incredible backdrop and spectacle … touch wood,” Cr Aertssen said.
“The whole purpose of the wharf was to attract watercraft, including paddle steamers.”
Arbuthnot Sawmill general manager, Paul Madden noted it as one of the sawmill’s proudest achievements in the shire.
“The sawmill is keeping people employed in Koondrook and the mill has had a long association with the wharf – both the original wharf and building of paddle steamers designed for it,” he said.
Mr Madden said the timber was milled in advance so that is could air-dry, to ensure it doesn’t shrink once laid. It is put through a planer to smooth rough surfaces and straighten edges and then sawn into different sizes.
“The Alexander Arbuthnot was built at the sawmill in 1923, so I’m sure they would love to come back if the river height is there for the opening,” he said.
“It will be great for local steamers as well and will get plenty of use from all the fishermen; a great spot to pull up and maybe go to the local shops.
“The sawmill’s history is proud to support the local community, and we will continue to do that as long as we can access timber and keep the mill running.”
The project is funded by the Federal and State Governments through the Murray Darling Basin Regional Economic Diversification Program, with council contributing $500,000.
Echuca Moama Tourism chief executive officer, Tom Smith said the new Murray River wharf would revolutionise maritime services.
“The new development will enhance all the ports along the Murray and be a connection point and thoroughfare between Mildura and Echuca,” Mr Smith said.
He said it would enable locals to reflect on the history of the river and its connection between people and place.
Mr Smith said the PS Alexander Arbuthnot could paddle downstream to the wharf in the future.
“Depending on accessibility, there is that opportunity there; it’s an exciting development for the region and those involved in this slice of paddle steamer history,” he said.
