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Echuca Wharf

Location 40 - 60 Murray Esplanade,, ECHUCA VIC 3564 - Property No B1993 File Number B1993 Level National

[1/1] B1993 Echuca Wharf

Statement of Significance

The Echuca Wharf was erected in 1865-67 by the Public Works Department. The contractor was G Dwyer and Co. Additions were made in 1877 and 1879. The wharf is constructed entirely of timber and was once five times its present length. Its great height allowed for the ten metre variation in the winter and summer levels of the Murray and enabled a year round unloading of goods. Cranes, wool presses, and bond stores were accommodated on the uppermost level.
This giant timber riverside wharf is unique in Victoria, perhaps Australia, and is an outstanding survivor of the period of river traffic when Echuca was the busiest port on the Murray and the second port in Victoria. It was the focus of the city's river activity. The giant timber structure towers above the river and the surrounding landscape. The timber bracing gives a superb rhythm down the long river frontage.
The wharf has been restored to its appearance during the river port era.

Classified: 'Local' 20/02/1969
Revised: 03/08/1998
Part of Historic Area B2186, Classified: 07/07/1969.