Murray Bridge, South Australia
Murray Bridge is situated 78 kms east of Adelaide and with a population of 13,500 with a rural population of 17,000 is the largest Murray town in South Australia. Its landmarks are the 3 bridges which span the River Murray. The original road bridge was the first bridge to span the Murray River and was opened in 1879. It later became a combination road and rail bridge, until the present rail bridge was opened in 1924. The third bridge is situated 5 km downstream and was opened 100 years to the day of the original bridge. At 744 metres, it is the longest in the State.
The wharf is a reminder of the towns importance when river trade was at its peak and many paddle steamers met their fate along this part of the Murray River. Visitors are able to visit several National Trust buidlings and museums in the area.
We stayed at the Avoca Dell Caravan Park overlooking the river. The winter temperatures along the river are often milder than the coast and winter is a popular time to take a houseboat holiday as it isn't as windy.
fishing for the elusive murray cod |
The railway bridge and road bridge in background |
Black swan - native to Australia |
there are several reserves in the township |
houseboats are available for weekend or weekly hire |
the view from our caravan |
restored cottage near the caravan park |
relics of yesteryear |
bottle brush in flower (callistimon) |
sunset view from our caravan |
morning reflections on the river |
Strathalbyn
We detoured to the township of Strathalbyn for our trip back to Adelaide. Strathalbyn is 57 km south east of Adelaide and first settled in 1839 mainly by Scots who envisioned an Australian version of a Scottish village.
Situated on the Angas River, the town boasts one of the prettiest parks in any rural area in South Australia. Overlooking the park is St Andrew's Presbyterian church dating from 1844. Many historic buildings, which formed the early town, are still visible and the local Robin Hood Hotel has been serving customers since 1855
Historic st andrew's church, 1844 |
the children's bridge (erected 1912) |
soldiers memorial park on the angas river |
st andrew's church tower |