23/10/2024
POSTPONEMENT OF PS MARION 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF
RECOMMISSIONING CELEBRATIONS
A celebration of the 30th year since the recommissioning of the historic paddle steamer, the PS Marion,
has been postponed.
The PS Marion, built in 1897, was recommissioned in 1994 after a mammoth restoration project during which a passionate team of volunteers donated thousands of hours of their time and labour to restore the vessel.
She is one of the last operational heritage steam-driven, wood-fired overnight passenger carrying side paddle steamers in the world, and has been a tourism drawcard for Mid Murray over the past three decades.
A spectacular weekend of fun and entertainment had been planned to mark the recommissioning anniversary at the Mannum Dock on 23-24 November. However, during recent scheduled maintenance works undertaken on the PS Marion, Council’s engineering contractor identified some unexpected cracks within the historic vessel’s steam pipe plate.
Repair works are now required before the vessel can be re-steamed for her return journey to Mannum. These works are expected to take a minimum of four weeks, or longer, which unfortunately means the steamer would most likely not be ready in time and back in Mannum for the celebration. As a result, it was decided that it was best to make the decision to postpone the celebrations to the new year.
Mid Murray Tourism Manager Andy Glen said the discovery of the cracks was disappointing, but Council was committed to rescheduling the celebration – which will now take place in 2025.
“Having to postpone the celebration is disappointing for all involved with the PS Marion and the many visitors who planned to join us to mark this important milestone,” Mr Glen said.
“However, we can’t have a celebration for PS Marion without the grand lady being present. We are committed to celebrating this anniversary in 2025, and a date will be confirmed in the near future.
“It will be a weekend not to miss, with entertainment, cruises, and family fun a great party atmosphere ideal for cruising and enjoying the stunning Murray River environment at its best.”
Council’s tourism staff will be in contact with anyone who has already purchased tickets for the event to offer full refunds or the option to transfer their tickets to the new dates.
Council apologises for any inconvenience and thanks all involved for their understanding.