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The P.S. Adelaide was built in 1866. She was built by G. Linklater. Her original owner was J.C. Grassey. She was made out of wood, and is the oldest wooden Paddlesteamer still operating on any river in the world. She was used to transport wool to the market, to bring back supplies for their properties and to bring the ladies into town to do their shopping.
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Origianlly P.S. Adelaide measured 142 gross and 114 net tons on dimensions of 75.9'xl7.0' x 5.0', but in 1879 these changed. The figures were now 105 gross and 77 net.. After these changes were made she began a long career of towing log barges for saw mills. This picture shows the P.S. Adelaide unloading logs at Murray River Sawmills in Echuca just upstream from the bridge.
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In 1957 Murray River Sawmills started to use trucks to transport logs, and the Adelaide was no longer needed.
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In 1958 the Adelaide was sold to Mr A Rowe of Paringa, in South Australia. He planned to convert her to a stern wheeled motor barge, but this didn't end up happening.
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In 1960, P.S. Adelaide was sold again, to the Apex Club and the local historical society of Echuca. This picture shows the Adelaide returning to Echuca
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In November of 1963, the Adelaide was placed ashore as an exhibit in the Hopwood Gardens. It is pictured here sitting in the gardens.
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In 1980 restoration began.
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In 1985 they had finished restoration, and the P.S. Adelaide was put back on the water. She was recommisioned by H.R.H. Prince Charles and H.R.H (the late) Princess Diana.
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This year the P.S. Adelaide will be celebrating her 150th Birthday. She is the oldest wooden paddlesteamer still operating on any river in the world, and is 100% Australian Made.
