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Echuca - Historic Area

Location ECHUCA VIC 3564 - Property No B2186 File Number B2186 Level National

[1/4] B2186 Echuca Wharf [2/4] B2186 Echuca Wharf [3/4] B2186 Echuca Wharf [4/4] B2186 Echuca Wharf

Statement of Significance

There are three elements that identify Echuca, The buildings which reflect the development of the town as an important commercial centre; the buildings which tell a story of surplus wealth and civic endeavour; and the Murray River. Natural setting, commerce, wealth and substantial buildings combine to give Echuca its distinctive image.
The town of Echuca had its origins as a crossing place on the Murray River. Permanent settlement began in 1853 through the efforts of Henry Hopwood who established a punt and inn.
Echuca grew with the expansion of the river trade to become Australia's busiest inland port. During the late 19th century, aided by the completion of the railway to Bendigo and Melbourne, Echuca became an important border town commanding a hinterland in two colonies. Echuca was the heart of a vast communication network - river, rail and stock route - which extended over much of south eastern Australia.
Within the historic area exists a range of buildings associated with the creation of Echuca's wealth - banks, hotels, the bond store and the wharf. But the story of Echuca is one of wealth generated and wealth spent. The story of the surplus wealth and civic endeavour is expressed in the Post Office, the churches, the Echuca Club building and commercial buildings in Heygarth Street.
The other element of the Echuca story is the Murray River. Echuca owes its existence to that river. Consequently, the river and the river red gums which flank its banks constitute an important historical and aesthetic landscape.
Classified: 07/07/1969