Mildura

Since our cruise did not leave until 11am we once again supported the local economy with retail therapy and drinks at McCafe (Wayne forced Phil to have an iced chocolate - he is a bad influence!!). We then headed to Mildura Wharf to board the P.S. Melbourne for a 2 hour cruise. Usually this cruise includes going through Lock 11 since the river level below the weir is normally 4 metres lower than that of the lock. However, since the water below the weir (which has been removed from the river - yes that is correct, they actually remove the weir from the river) is now 4metres higher than normal, we cruised downstream for the first time since 1996 without going through the lock.

The river level is clearly very high as we cruised past beautiful scenery, houseboats, old paddlesteamers (the Avoca is still used for functions and it was built in 1877), and very attractive homes. On the NSW side of the Murray people can own land right to the waters edge but on the Victorian side there is a 30m buffer zone which allows public access to the river.

This device provides the weir engineers with data regarding river flow, clarity and temperature of the water. In December 2010 they determined that the flow was such that they had to remove the weir from to river to avoid even worse flooding upstream. It is anticipated that the weir will return some time in March when the water level returns to a manageable level. 

After the cruise we went to the Trentham Estate winery on the banks of the Murray River for wine tasting (it was pleasing to the palate so we felt compelled to support the NSW side of the economy!!) and a very enjoyable lunch. It was then time to re-fuel and return home for a swim and happy hour.

We are hoping that it is a little cooler to-night so that sleeping is more comfortable. 

Tomorrow we set off for Swan Hill.