All The Rivers Run on The Australian Star

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll head across the road to the station and board a local rail service to Castlemaine aboard one of Victoria’s VLocity trains. These comfortable diesel rail car sets are becoming the backbone of long distance travel in Victoria, replacing the older style diesel hauled trains with traditional carriages. 

Upon arrival at the charming Castlemaine station, we’ll hand our luggage over to our waiting coach and take our first class seats on a diesel-hauled heritage rail tour of the Victorian Goldfields Railway along the old branch line to the charming historic gold rush town of Maldon – established following the discovery of alluvial gold in 1853 which sparked a rush that drew up to 20,000 diggers. Your first-class ticket entitles you to ride in the wonderful Parlor Cars with access to the bar for some refreshments along the way.

In 1966, the National Trust of Australia declared Maldon Australia’s first “Notable Town” due to its exceptionally intact heritage streetscapes and architecture – often described as one of the most preserved gold rush towns in the country. You’ll have plenty of time here to have some lunch at leisure and immerse yourself in this well preserved town, starting with the Maldon Railway Station, opened in 1884, before wandering into Main Street and High Street for a real historic experience. You might want to seek out the Grand Hotel (1888); the old post office, constructed in 1870 and the childhood home of novelist Henry Handel Richardson; and the magnificent bluestone mansion, Lauriston House, built in 1866 for mining magnate Robert Dent Oswald – a fine example of gold rush architecture.

We’ll regroup back at the railway station mid-afternoon and reboard our train for the return journey to Castlemaine, where our private coach will meet us and take us on to Bendigo, the famous town made rich by gold. 

After checking in and enjoying some downtime to rest and refresh, we’ll regroup for dinner in a local restaurant. 

Overnight: Mercure Schaller, Bendigo (B, D)

This morning after a relaxed breakfast and check out, we’ll board our private coach and head north to the small town of Rochester to view the spectacular silo art, part of the magnificent Victorian Silo Art Trail, an initiative in 2016 to foster community morale and revitalise small, drought-stricken, and economically declining rural towns, by transforming decommissioned, towering grain silos into massive, public art murals that celebrate local history, culture, and community resilience. The goal was to attract tourists to the region, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses, such as pubs and cafes. The trail is now recognised as Australia’s largest outdoor gallery, stretching over 200 kilometres and covering multiple towns. 

The Rochester silo arts spans three sites of murals highlighting local and endangered species, featuring the Azure Kingfisher, the Squirrel Glider, the duck-billed platypus and the New Holland Honeyeater – all painted by one of Australia’s most respected and accomplished mural artists, Jimmy Dvate. 

From here, we’ll head to the border town of Echuca and enjoy lunch together at the historic Star Hotel, situated right in the heart of the historic port precinct, before having some free time to explore this historic town and the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre – a living monument to the 1870s when it was the third largest port in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne. Home of the 1983 TV series ‘All the Rivers Run’, starring Sigrid Thornton and John Waters, the port will provide you with a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1800s.

It’s then time to make the short transfer to Torrumbarry Weir to board your paddle steamer as our adventure takes to the water on the new and luxurious PS Australian Star – billed as Australia’s first five-star river cruise boat, the largest paddle steamer in the Southern Hemisphere, and the only wood-fired, five-star, accommodated paddle steamer in the world. Powered by a vintage, refurbished 1907 Richard Garrett and Sons wood-fired steam engine, it combines authentic heritage elements, like the rhythmic paddlewheel and steam sounds, with contemporary comforts, including beautifully appointed staterooms with private ensuites, fine dining, a gourmet restaurant, a lounge/bar, sweeping river views, and expansive outdoor areas.

As we pull away from the port, relax and enjoy an afternoon Devonshire tea while taking in the tranquil beauty of the riverbanks, then visit the wheelhouse for a friendly chat with the skipper, take a behind-the-scenes look at Australian Star’s authentic wood-fired steam engine, or simply unwind in the comfort of your private cabin. As the sun dips low, enjoy a local wine or craft beer in the bar while the bushland comes alive with the calls of native birds and the sight of kangaroos emerging from the shadows.

Dinner tonight is a highlight of the evening – a chef-prepared ‘welcome aboard’ feast made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients as we sail on to Norris Bend, our mooring for tonight. Weather permitting, there’ll be a crackling riverside campfire to gather with new-found friends under a blanket of stars, sharing stories and soaking up the peace of the Australian bush.

Overnight: PS Australian Star, Murray River (B, L, D)

After a hearty breakfast, PS Australian Star cruises gracefully to the storied Perricoota Station – a historic property first settled by James Maiden in 1843. Immortalised in the beloved TV mini-series ‘All the Rivers Run’, this picturesque station served as a filming location where our very own PS Emmylou appeared as the fictional PS Providence.

From here, you’ll depart for a special visit to Murray Gums Estate, a boutique producer of premium wines and award-winning olive oils. Meet the passionate owners, explore the estate, and savour a gourmet lunch featuring the best of local produce, perfectly paired with estate-grown wine and olive oil tastings.

Upon returning to Perricoota Station, your Captain will guide you on a leisurely walk through the beautifully restored historic buildings and manicured riverside gardens. As evening approaches, enjoy Happy Hour aboard with a drink in hand as golden light bathes the river.

Dinner tonight will be served alfresco on the deck of PS Australian Star, overlooking the grandeur of Perricoota Station. As night falls, settle in under the stars for Movie Night, featuring Riverboats Remembered – a captivating historical documentary that brings the paddle steamer era to life through rare archival footage spanning from the early 1900s to the mid-1970s.

Overnight: PS Australian Star, Murray River (B, L, D)

For early risers and photography enthusiasts, morning mist drifting over Perricoota Station offers a magical start to the day. Keep an eye out for native wildlife stirring along the banks – a peaceful and unforgettable moment best enjoyed with a warm cup in hand.

After a hearty breakfast, PS Australian Star steams gracefully upstream, continuing her journey toward tonight’s destination at the tranquil Layfield Lane mooring. This is a day for pure relaxation – lounge on the sun deck with a book, enjoy quiet moments watching the ever-changing scenery, or simply savour the gentle rhythm of the river.

As evening falls, the day culminates in a signature riverside experience – our much-loved Australian BBQ dinner under the stars (weather permitting). Tables set with soft candlelight and the crackle of a nearby campfire create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy live entertainment as you unwind with fellow guests, sharing stories and laughter beneath the southern sky.

Retire to your stateroom with a heart full of river memories and the sounds of the bush all around.

Overnight: PS Australian Star, Murray River (B, L, D)

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast aboard PS Australian Star, fueling up for a fascinating half-day adventure that brings Echuca’s rich history to life.

Disembark for the Henry Hopwood Town Tour, a guided journey through Echuca’s historic heart. Discover the stories behind landmarks such as Hopwood’s Punt and the innovative pontoon bridge – the original Murray River crossing devised by the town’s founder, Henry Hopwood.

Then, step aboard the lovingly restored PS Canberra, a 113-year-old paddlesteamer built in 1912 from sturdy red gum timber. Cruise the river aboard this historic vessel and imagine life during the height of the paddle steamer era. After your cruise, enjoy free time for a self-guided walking tour of the Port of Echuca precinct. Explore museums, heritage buildings, artisan shops, and cafes at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of one of Australia’s most iconic river ports.

Return to PS Australian Star for lunch as your river journey continues upstream. Cruise past the imposing Port of Echuca Wharf, once home to more than 100 paddle steamers during its 19th-century heyday. In the evening, gather for your last dinner aboard while cruising upriver of Echuca to reflect on your unforgettable journey, share stories with fellow guests, and toast the magic of the Murray River one last time.

Overnight: PS Australian Star, Murray River (B, L, D)

This morning, early risers can enjoy a riverside stroll before breakfast and saying goodbye to our unforgettable river journey on the PS Australian Star. Our private coach will be on standby to take us back to Echuca to cross the Murray into the vast farming lands and river red gum forest of the southern Riverina in southwestern New South Wales.

Our first stop today will be in the Riverina town of Deniliquin for a visit to The Depot Deniliquin – a privately owned and operated museum that has grown around the historic vehicle and memorabilia collections of Neville and Debbie Purtill and the Purtill family, and continued to grow with contributions by local businesses, trades people, historians, and community groups. 

From here we’ll head to the Pretty Pine Hotel for lunch. This historic hotel, established circa 1875, was once a Cobb & Co change station on the old Long Paddock route which followed The Cobb Highway from Echuca through to Wilcannia and Bourke, Broken Hill and White Cliffs.

Our final destination today is Hay, situated on the spectacular Hay Plains, one of the flattest places in the Southern Hemisphere, with a minimal elevation difference of only 17 metres across the entire area of approximately 20,000 square kilometres.

Watch as the farming and grazing lands give way to the iconic saltbush, big skies and far off horizons before we cross the Murrumbidgee, a major tributary of the Murray River, on our approach to Hay. 

After checking into our motel, our home for the next two nights, there’ll be time to freshen up before heading out to a special spot to enjoy sundowners while we watch the sun set over the plains. Dinner will be back in town at the local pub near our motel. 

Overnight: Saltbush Motor Inn, Hay (B, L, D)

This morning after an ‘order anything you want’ breakfast at a local cafe, we’ll join our experienced guide and local resident Lou Gardam, for a full day exploring this interesting town – Lou’s extensive knowledge of Hay will thoroughly enhance your experiences today.

Our first stop is the historic Hay Gaol. Built in 1878, this former prison (later a maternity hospital and girls’ institute) houses artifacts like Australia’s oldest known bark canoe, antique windmills, and WWII memorabilia, and offers a glimpse into 19th-century justice and local history. It’s then back across the river to one of the most unusual and historic houses in New South Wales – Bishops Lodge, a remarkable iron-clad residence innovatively designed to withstand Hay’s heat. Constructed in 1889, the lodge was home to three bishops before becoming a hostel for boys, and passing into private hands in 1946 before the local Council purchased it in 1985. Enjoy exploring the house before a relaxing morning tea in the 19th century gardens.

Back on our coach, we’ll pause at the inspiring Hay Water Tower Art, designed as a lasting tribute to the many servicemen and women that served in World War II, before visiting the Dunera Museum, located in two restored railway carriages at the impressive Hay Railway Station. This Museum recounts the WWII internment of over 6,000 POWs between 1940 and 1946, including the “Dunera Boys” – 1,984 German Jews and other refugees from Nazi-occupied Europe, who were the first internees of the British Government WWII policy, arriving in Hay in September 1940. It’s a poignant look at a lesser-known chapter of Australian history.

Lunch today will be a special affair on the station platform – very befitting of our grand surroundings. 

After lunch, we’ll head out to the outstanding ‘Shear Outback’, a celebration of the legendary status of sheep shearers and the links to Australia’s vibrant and colourful shearing culture. For anyone that has grown up in, or visited sheep country, the vision of a corrugated iron woolshed shimmering in the haze of the Aussie sun is iconic. Here’s your chance to learn about the colourful characters, shearers, shedhands, sheep and dogs who work at ‘getting the wool’ off. You’ll explore The Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame, the Shear Outback Exhibition, and the historic Murray Downs Woolshed – complete with a live shearing demonstration. 

After returning to our motel in the late afternoon, your evening, including dinner, is at leisure. 

Overnight: Saltbush Motor Inn, Hay (B, L)

After breakfast and checkout, we’ll jump back on our private coach and head further west along the Sturt Highway, roughly following the Murrumbidgee across the western edges of the Hay Plains, enjoying the spectacular sight of seeing nothing but saltbush as we roll along. After passing through Balranald we’ll arrive at the tiny nearby outpost of Penarie and the Homebush Hotel, our venue for lunch today. A hotel has stood on this location on the road to Ivanhoe since 1878 and is the perfect setting for a pub lunch with the 360° views of the surrounding plains.

After lunch we’ll return to Balaranald and visit two fascinating buildings – the ‘Lock Up’ and the Malcolm Building Museum.

Built around 1887, the ‘Lock Up’ included a Police Station and an attached house. The most infamous person held in the lock up was Ronald Ryan – the last man hanged in Australia (in 1967). Ryan started his life of petty crime here in Balranald when he robbed the local bank at just 16 years of age. A man by the name of Kelly was also held in the old Balranald Lock Up – according to local stories, he would quite often climb the walls of the exercise yard to buy an ice-cream and then climb back in with the ice-cream in hand and sit down to eat it.

The Malcolm Building Museum showcases local history through artifacts and photographs from the late 1800s – originally a Stock and Station agency, the building itself is a key piece of heritage. We’ll then head back to the NSW / Victoria border and the small town of Tooleybuc, where we’ll drop in for a drink at the Art Deco ‘Country Club Hotel’ before continuing on to Swan Hill, our resting place this evening.

After checking in to our accommodation and having some time to freshen up, we’ll head out to dinner at a local restaurant. 

Overnight: Comfort Inn Lady Augusta, Swan Hill (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll transfer to the tiny town of Sea Lake in the heart of Victoria’s Mallee, where one of the few stations that still remain standing on this line will be hosting our waiting private heritage train that will take us all the way to Ballarat. 

Hauled by two heritage locomotives in their traditional Victorian Railways blue and gold livery, our private train includes comfortable seating cars with windows that fully open, allowing you to be better connected to the passing scenery. A special feature of our train will be the spectacular 1906 built ‘Yarra’ Parlor Car, originally built for the ‘Sydney Limited’ the express train that connected Melbourne and Albury until 1931 – the open air balcony is a great place from which to take in the views as our train rolls through the open plains of Northwestern Victoria. 

We’ll pause at the tiny town of Nullawil to view the silo art by artist Sam Bates, aka Smug, before returning to our train for a sit-down lunch in the air-conditioned Dining Car as we continue rolling through the landscape.  Our train’s Dining Car, dating back to 1937 and built in the Art Deco style, lined with Queensland brown beech and accented with thin ebony beading, is the original dining car from the iconic ‘Spirit of Progress’, the premier train that ran between Melbourne and Albury until 1962. It’s a truly fabulous way to enjoy a meal and a glass of wine as the countryside passes your window.

After lunch you’ll be part of something unusual as our train literally rolls through the middle of town at Wycheproof – the railway line runs right down the Calder Highway! We’ll disembark briefly here for the opportunity to take a photo right in the middle of the main street, before continuing on through Charlton, Korong Vale and Inglewood to Maryborough with its spectacular railway station. The current station building featuring red brick and stucco trimming was erected in 1890, with 25 rooms and a clock tower, with the station clock added in 1914. In 1895, Mark Twain famously visited Maryborough, which he dryly observed as being “A railway station with a town attached”. We’ll disembark here to have a quick look before our train continues its journey further south to Ballarat, arriving late afternoon.

Upon arrival, we’ll make the short walk to our hotel, and check in and freshen up before regrouping for a celebratory farewell dinner tonight including drinks at the delightful ‘Pipers on the Lake’, nestled amongst century old trees on the shores of Ballarat’s beautiful Lake Wendouree, directly across the road from the magnificent and historic Botanical Gardens. 

Overnight: Quality Inn The George Hotel, Ballarat (B, L, D)

It’s a relaxing morning today as our private train doesn’t depart until late morning. After boarding and settling in, lunch will again be served in the Dining Car while we take in the passing countryside. A feature of today’s journey is the enormous 440-metre long bluestone and iron Moorabool Viaduct, opened in 1862 to carry the Geelong-Ballarat railway over the river valley. Designed by Victorian Railways engineer Frederick Esling, it was once the largest early metal truss bridge in Australia, featuring massive bluestone piers and an original Warren truss design. It remains in use today, having been modified over time, with the original iron trusses replaced by metal girders and steel trestles added in 1918 and a concrete deck installed in 1983. 

We’ll arrive back at Southern Cross Station around 2pm and our tour ends here. We bid farewell until we meet each other again somewhere else down the line.

(B, L)