Image supplied: Echuca Historical Society Inc.
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HISTORIC PADDLE STEAMER RISES FROM THE RIVER
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In 1874, the PS HERO embarked on her maiden voyage along the Murray River, loyally serving her captains for decades.
Tragedy struck in 1957 when she caught fire, burning to the waterline and sinking at Boundary Bend.
For 40 years, she lay submerged, until Gary and Irene Byford discovered and purchased the wreck in 1989.
The recovery process was arduous.
In 1998, Gary Byford and a team spent six weeks digging silt from the hull.
Using innovative techniques, they slowly raised PS HERO from the riverbed and transported her to Echuca.
Image supplied: Echuca Historical Society Inc.
Photo by
Contributed
Image supplied: Echuca Historical Society Inc.
Photo by
Contributed
Under the skilled hands of Port of Echuca shipwright Kevin Hutchinson and his apprentices, PS HERO’S hull was rebuilt.
In September 2000, 126 years after her initial launch, PS HERO’S restored hull touched water once again.
Today, PS HERO stands as a testament to Australian maritime history, moored proudly in Echuca for all to admire.
While fully restored, the PS HERO is not currently operational for river cruises.
However, visitors can explore her deck and marvel at her beautifully restored exterior, gaining insight into the rich history of paddle steamers on the Murray River.
To commemorate the National Trust Heritage Festival ‘Unearthed’, the Echuca Historical Society will showcase PS HERO’S remarkable story through photographs and words at the Echuca Museum.
The exhibition runs from April 18 to May 18 and open daily from 10am to 2pm.
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