News

Ruby to make Rally under her own steam

6th July 2007

The smoke drifting lazily out of the Paddle Steamer Ruby’s funnel this morning is a great sign. It means the boiler is being fired.

And the even better news is that that iconic Wentworth riverboat will be under her own steam this weekend for the triennial Junction Rally and to celebrate her centenary.

The Ruby will travel down to the junction of the Murray and Darling Rivers tomorrow morning for the Rally and the official opening at midday.

Wentworth Shire Mayor, Cr Margaret Thomson, will open the Rally from the foredeck of the Ruby before cutting the historic paddle steamer’s 100th birthday cake soon after.

The Ruby will remained moored at the junction and open for public inspection till 4pm when she will make steam again and travel back up the Darling River to tie up at Wentworth’s historic wharf in readiness for tomorrow evening’s book launch.

Dr Jeannette Hope’s ‘Ruby: One Hundred Years On’ details the Ruby’s history and the restoration effort that has seen her transformed from land-bound and in disrepair to her former glory.

On Sunday, the Ruby will remain at the wharf and once again be open for public inspection.

Tea and muffins will be served in the dining room Saturday afternoon and all day Sunday.