News

Ruby rallying call for increased support

17th November 2005

THE restoration of the Paddle Steamer Ruby at Wentworth has reached a crucial stage and is now in need of a quick injection of community and corporate support.

That's the call from the historic riverboat's Board of Management in light of recent professional advice that has given the board a clear way forward to progress the project.

Board chairman and restoration stalwart, Leon Wagner, said the restoration had slowed in recent weeks as funds to support the project had become scarce.

"We have been going along so well for so long, but now we are seeking a renewed commitment for assistance from the community," he said.

And how can people help?

"First and foremost what would we would like is for everyone to buy at least one ticket in our fund raising raffle; more would be even better," Mr Wagner said.

"At just $2 a ticket the raffle is very good value and everyone who buys a ticket or two can be assured all funds raised are going to a very good cause."

First prize for the raffle is a Stacer boat package from Mildura's Baldwin Boats valued at more than $11,000; second prize is two nights and three days cruising the Murray River aboard the Paddle Vessel Coonawarra and third, a $200 voucher from Wentworth's fabulous Red Restaurant.

Mr Wagner said he felt confident people on both sides of the Murray River in Sunraysia would like to see the Ruby back on the water under her own steam.

"The Ruby is significant for the entire region, not just for Wentworth," he said.

"Both Wentworth and Mildura were major riverboat ports and much of our early history is tied to these magnificent vessels and the river trade.

"What we are asking people to do is dig deep. We have had many generous sponsors during the past 10 years we have been working on the Ruby.

"Now we would like to see all those who will ultimately benefit from her presence in the region to assist."

Mr Wagner said a completed Ruby would become a regional drawcard, benefiting the communities on both sides of the river.

"Having the Murray between us is a great advantage, enabling the Ruby to visit both New South Wales and Victorian destinations and also South Australia on occasions," he said.

While the community is the target of the raffle, Mr Wagner is also keen to elicit the support of companies that manufacture and/or supply equipment and skills needed for the final push to have the boat finished and steaming for its centenary in 2007.

"We need specialist equipment associated with the bilge pumping and fire-fighting systems as well as power generation," Mr Wagner said.

"Anything from pumps to switchboards, from plumbing to wiring, or skilled labour in-kind would be appreciated.

"We have come such a long way and it would be heart-breaking for our tireless volunteers to have to give up on the Ruby now."

Corporate sponsors wanting more information on how they can help the Ruby should contact Mr Wagner on 5025 2585.

Community members wanting to take their support beyond the raffle can become a 'Friend of the Ruby' for as little as $20 a year for a single membership.

Family memberships are $50 and a life membership, with it attendant privileges, requires a one-off investment of $250.

More information on these options is available from the Ruby's new website at: www.psruby.com