THE HISTORY OF ECHUCA MOAMA
Step back in time with a leisurely holiday by the mighty Murray River in Echuca Moama with its historic river port, once the largest inland port in the world. You can also choose which state to stay in as Echuca is on the Victorian side of the Murray while Moama is across the river in New South Wales.
The first of the two settlements was Moama, when James Maiden established what was then known as 'Maidens Punt' in 1845. The small settlement was renamed Moama in 1851.
In 1850, an ex-convict named Henry Hopwood bought a small punt which he operated across the Murray River. This settlement, originally known as "Hopwood's Ferry", was renamed Echuca as the town grew. (I live just opposite Hopwood Street)!
In 1853, nine square miles of land, including the site of Hopwood’s Ferry, was gazetted for the development of a larger Echuca township. With increased traffic as people moved stock across the Murray River heading for the Victorian goldfields Echuca began to grow in population at a rapid rate.
Of all the historic sites and attractions of Echuca Moama the most popular are the majestic paddlesteamers and riverboats. Here you’ll find Australia's largest collection of operating paddlesteamers. The famous wharf once stretched for 1.2 kilometres and was the main transport hub along the Murray River. Six magnificent paddlesteamers still ply the Murray, offering visitors an entertaining insight into the history of Echuca Moama.
While you are in Echuca, pop into Millies opposite the Echuca Post Office in Packenham Street for a delicious lunch or coffee and cake and browse the Love Paper Scissors Collection of Paper Miniature 3D Art. You can see the work of other local artists at Alton Reserve Gallery in Hare Street.
If you’re looking to stay in the Echuca Moama region, there’s a few hotels that will cater to your needs!