Key Takeaways
- The Australian Star is a new luxury paddle steamer that will offer cruises along the Murray River in Australia.
- The ship boasts a restaurant, lounge and bar, a lift, and 19 cabins with en suites, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi.
- Cruise tickets cost between $890 and $1250 per night, per passenger, not including drinks outside dinner.
- The route will wind 80 kilometers along the Murray River between Echuca and Torrumbarry Weir, with sights including the historic Perricoota Station homestead.
- The Australian Star is expected to attract high-value tourism, boost local businesses, and create new opportunities for jobs and investment.
Introduction to the Australian Star
The Australian Star is a new luxury paddle steamer that is set to revolutionize the tourism industry in Australia. According to Rohan Burgess, one of the owners of the ship, people are looking for alternatives to long-haul flights and want to explore their own backyard in comfort. The Australian Star offers just that, with its luxurious facilities and scenic route along the Murray River. The ship has a restaurant, lounge and bar, a lift, and 19 cabins with en suites, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing and comfortable vacation.
The Route and Activities
The route of the Australian Star will wind 80 kilometers along the Murray River between Echuca and Torrumbarry Weir, with sights including the historic Perricoota Station homestead. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in various activities, such as bus trips around Echuca historical sights and to Murray Gums Estate winery, the Great Aussie Beer Shed, silo art at Rochester, and lunch at the Colbinabbin pub. One of the highlights of the cruise is the chance to have a barbecue on a river bank under the stars, which is a popular activity among guests on the brothers’ older paddle steamer, Emmylou.
The Heart of the Australian Star
At the heart of the Australian Star is its 119-year-old, 13-tonne steam engine, which will be powered by red gum. The engine was spotted by Echuca skipper Neil Hutchinson on Facebook and bought from a collector in Truro, South Australia. Made in England in 1907, the engine has powered saw mills and farm machinery in Victoria. The construction of the Australian Star took 32 months, and the ship was sailed down the Murray to Echuca in 19 days, minus its top level so it could fit under bridges.
The Owners’ Passion
Rohan Burgess’ love of paddle steamers started 47 years ago, at the age of 12, when his father worked for the Victorian government on regional development, including helping the then-City of Echuca buy and operate the PS Pevensey. Over several years, Paul and Rohan, and sometimes Craig, volunteered with a group that helped restore the Pevensey. Rohan’s passion for paddle steamers has only grown stronger over the years, and he is excited to share this passion with guests on the Australian Star.
The Launch and Expectations
The launch of the Australian Star is an exciting milestone for Echuca Moama and the wider Murray region. According to Tim Ford, chair of advocacy group Committee for Echuca Moama, the Australian Star has the potential to attract high-value tourism, boost local businesses, and create new opportunities for jobs and investment. Victorian Tourism Minister Steve Dimopoulos also welcomes the launch of the Australian Star, saying that it will deliver an incredibly unique tourism experience and drive economic growth for Echuca and the wider region.
The Future of Tourism
The Australian Star is not just a luxury paddle steamer, but also a symbol of the future of tourism in Australia. According to Craig Burgess, the ship’s owner, the Murray River has the potential to be an international tourist drawcard, alongside the Phillip Island penguins or the Twelve Apostles. The Australian Star offers a unique and luxurious way to experience the heart of Australia, and it is expected to attract visitors from all over the world. With its luxurious facilities and scenic route, the Australian Star is set to revolutionize the tourism industry in Australia and put the Murray River on the map as a must-visit destination.