RESTORATION of a 113-year-old river boat has been given a significant boost as part of a $1.34 million funding injection into river tourism projects across the Mid Murray district.
The historic ps Canally has received $447,000 from the Australian Government’s Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development program, and an additional $40,000 in-kind project management support from the Mid Murray Council (MMC) to prepare the steamer for future commercial use.
The funding will cover repair works and the installation of a crane and winch, safety equipment, and internal fit-out including kitchen, accessible bathroom, and electrical work.
MMC Mayor Dave Burgess said the funding would fast-track the restoration project and provide a new attraction for Morgan.
“Our region is already well-known for its rich and colourful river history, and our river vessels including the pw Mayflower and the ps Marion at Mannum are a major part in this,” he said.
“In adding the ps Canally to our heritage fleet, we’ll also open up new tourism opportunities for Morgan and towns along that stretch of the river to become an additional drawcard for visitors seeking a unique cruising experience.
“Our team of volunteers have already dedicated countless hours to rebuilding the ps Canally, and having the funds to fast-track the final stages of its restoration will be a dream come true for them and the residents of Morgan.”
Meanwhile, the Blanchetown Revitalisation Project will improve the entrance streetscape to the town, with new town entry signage and improvements to the Blanchetown Medical Centre and RSL building to improve car parking and landscaping.
Blanchetown’s river front will also be upgraded under the $450,000 project via improved access to the river’s edge and boat ramp, signage, bins and painting of the public toilets.
An additional $447,818 would fund the Mannum Murray River and Heritage Tourism Project at the Mannum Dock Museum. Work on all three projects is expected to begin early in 2021 and be completed by June 2023.
Mr Burgess said each of the projects builds on the Mid Murray’s existing tourism attractions, in particular, its river lifestyle, environment and history.
“As a region that has faced a challenging time recently, this injection of funds to support these three projects provides an exciting step forward for our region and our growing tourism sector,” he said.
“Each will deliver new reasons for visitors to holiday in our area and build on our expanding range of attractions, ensuring we are well-placed to capitalise on the rise in domestic tourism.”
For more information on the ps Canally and to follow its restoration progress, visit Friends of the PS Canally on Facebook.