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Echuca-Moama

Paddle steamers on the Murray River

Quick facts

  • Population approximately 15,500
  • 206 kilometres north of Melbourne
  • Historic Port of Echuca
  • Murray River
  • Water skiing, swimming, paddle steamers, houseboat holidays, cruises.

From the Aboriginal word meaning ‘meeting of the water’, Echuca-Moama is one of Victoria's oldest river towns. At one time the town was the state's most substantial inland river port. Paddle steamers traded along the Murray and Darling Rivers almost as far as the Queensland border and brought their cargoes of wool to Echuca-Moama for transport to the Port of Melbourne, with much of the wool going for export from Melbourne to London.

It is this aspect of its history that has become the basis for the town's reputation as a tourism centre, particularly since the restoration of the old port area began in 1973. Paddle steamers again travel the local waters, albeit for purely recreational and nostalgic purposes. Moreover, the survival of many original buildings has enabled a meaningful renovation of the old streetscape and the wharf now offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a working steam port. Visitors can take a relaxing one hour cruise aboard one of the authentic paddle steamers or a leisurely one hour stroll on a self guided tour of the Echuca Wharf or simply wander around the Port all day.

The township is also the perfect base for a water-based holiday with its location right on the Murray River, its warm Mediterranean climate, and the myriad of water based activities on offer.

Activities and attractions

  • Explore the historic Port of Echuca – Walk along the red gum wharf built in 1865, see the cargo shed museum, visit the Star Hotel with its underground bar and escape tunnel (once a 'sly' grog shop), inspect one of the many steam engine displays and observe shipwrights restoring vessels
  • Take a paddle steamer cruise – the world’s biggest fleet of operating paddle steamers is based at Echuca-Moama and each has its own history and character. Learn about pioneering days from the captains commentary and enjoy refreshments as you cruise in all-weather comfort
  • Hire a houseboat and cruise down the Murray at your own pace
  • Go fishing, canoeing or waterskiing
  • Find a secluded spot for a riverbank picnic
  • Drive amongst the ancient red gums of Barmah State Forest
  • Dine out at one of the excellent local restaurants including the renowned Oscar W’s Wharfside restaurant overlooking the Murray
  • Visit nearby wineries for cellar door tastings
  • Spend time browsing the boutique stores along Echuca’s High Street, many of which are housed in heritage buildings with wide balconies and verandahs.

Major events

  • Southern 80 Ski Race – February
  • Riverboats Jazz Food and Wine Festival – February
  • Echuca-Moama RSL Fishing Classic March / April 
  • Rotary Steam Horse and Vintage Rally – June
  • Winter Blues Festival – July
  • Houseboat Open Day – July
  • Elmore and District Machinery Field Days – October
  • Port of Echuca Heritage Steam Festival – October.

How to get there
Echuca is a two and a half hour drive from Melbourne on the Hume Freeway/Northern Highway.