THE importance of the River Murray will be on display this weekend at the biennial Morgan Living River two-day festival.
The event serves as a celebration of boats along the river, while it will also mark the 50th anniversary of the last train to depart Morgan.
During the golden days of river trade from 1880 to 1910, Morgan was known as the busiest inland port in Australia.
Steamers and barges were often seen lining the banks of Morgan riverfront for more than half a kilometre as the Morgan river and rail link was a significant trading hub, second only to Port Adelaide.
During the high season gangs of up to 40 men worked 24-hour rosters to handle the incoming and outgoing goods and freight moving in and out of the now heritage listed Morgan wharf.
"This river port's history has so many stories and it is wonderful to see the Morgan community rally together at this event to showcase the town's river and rail heritage", Mid Murray Council mayor Dave Burgess said.
"Walking through the rail and wharf precinct takes you back to a time when the town was bustling with steam trains and paddle wheelers and barges lining the magnificent Morgan riverfront we know today".
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Putt putt, wooden boats and engines will be on display, live riverbank entertainment, one hour cruises offered by the PS Marion and PW Oscar W and a PS Marion 3.5 hour lunch cruise on Sunday, November 17, celebrating the 25th anniversary since its recommissioning.
The event will run from Saturday, November 16, 10am-10pm, and Sunday, November 17, 10am-4pm.
- Details: Morgan Visitor Information Office on 08 8540 2643 or morganlivingriver.com.au.
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