Echuca

Today we had a full day in Echuca, which I'm told was the 3rd largest port in Australia in the days of river transport. I hadn't realised how big the river trade was back in the pre-train days, but there are still plenty of signs of its former glory in Echuca. In the morning we did a cruise on an old paddle steamer. It was very nice, and the engine was a sight to behold. Jane was a bit apprehensive, and objected strongly to sitting upstairs in the vicinity of the loud steam whistle. We also had a look around town where there were shops for everyone's taste. Fashion for Elizabeth and Adelaide, lollies for Henry and Jane, chocolate and beverages for Bec, and of course fishing supplies for Hugh. Echuca has impressive facilities for a town of 14000. I noticed 5 major bank branches including Bendigo, and even Rabobank and Ausie Home Loans. There must be plenty of wealthy people in the surrounding farms. In the afternoon I went and bowled a few balls in the nets before going fishing with Hugh. No catches, but a nice relaxing time together. In the evening we did a walking tour of the town. It was themed for the children and had some fancy dress. One of the interesting sights was the basement bar of the Star Hotel. This old pub was reputed to be a haven for smugglers in pre-federation days of interstate tariffs. It was ultimately one of a number of pubs closed in the late 1890's following pressure from temperance league (who objected to having 78 pubs for a population of 5000).