Murray River paddle steamer PS Canally makes first voyage in 81 years

The PS Canally travelling full steam ahead after 81 years

Eighty-one years after its last voyage, the historic paddle steamer PS Canally has made a trip down the Murray River.

Steamers played a huge role in the development and function of river towns, but the Canally could have been lost in the history books if it was not for a group of hardworking volunteers.

Today the vessel headed from Morgan to Mannum before getting some more important works completed, including having its hull recaulked its interior timber framework replaced.

The trip down the Murray was a perfect opportunity to show off the restoration to eager spectators.

Skipper Jim Maywald was at the wheel as the vessel steamed down the river.

"It's a pretty historic day," he said.

The PS Canally set sail after 12 years of volunteer restoration works. (Supplied: PS Canally Port of Morgan)

Saved from the depths

Mid Murray councillor Kevin Myers has been heavily involved in the restoration.

He said when the Canally first arrived in Morgan she was in a "sad" condition.

"In 1941 her engines and other operating gear was taken out," Mr Myers said.

Launched in 1907 in Echuca, Victoria, the Canally was used to trade wool on the Murrumbidgee River. (Supplied)

The vessel was used to trade dried fruits between Berri and Morgan before being put to work on the construction of the lock and weir system on the Murray in the early 1920s.

After changing hands and locations in the following years, the once-crucial vessel was left at a mooring at Boundary Bend in Victoria and eventually sank.

The Rivers and Riverboat Historical and Preservation Society raised the Canally from the deep water in 1998 and swiftly began restoration of the hull.

The PS Canally has transformed since 2013. (ABC: Ian Mannix)

In 2010 the Mid Murray Council took ownership of the boat and in 2011 she settled in her new home at the Port of Morgan.

The volunteers worked tirelessly over the past 12 years restoring the steamer to her former glory.

"We're actually over the moon with her performance," Mr Myers said after a test run last week.

Riverland locals watched on as the PS Canally made her way down the Murray. (Supplied: PS Canally Port of Morgan)

All aboard

Mr Myers said it was important to save the Canally in order to honour its importance in the '20s and '30s.

While the finishing touches are yet to be completed, community members and tourists may soon get the chance to experience the restored PS Canally up close.

"Hopefully within the next six to 12 months we'll get it totally surveyed to carry passengers," Mr Meyers said.