The ‘Mighty Murray’ is part of Australian maritime folklore. Spanning three states and over 2500km, the Murray served as a highway for shallow paddle steamers carrying wool, wheat, and other goods. Rail transport slowed the steamer trade, but the Murray continues to serve the public as a managed waterway, with weirs, locks and dams regulating water flow and irrigation for over 1.5 million households and various industries.
The Murray no longer flows at its full potential, but boaties still flock there for waterskiing and fishing holidays. The river hosts famous events including the Murray River Marathon and the Southern 80, the longest waterski race in the world. If you prefer innerspring mattresses over inflatable ones, houseboats are a great way of exploring the river. Be sure to check out the paddle steamers still operating on the river.
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