River boat was the cream of the crop

The Sunshine 2nd, the Coraki to Lismore cream boat in the late 60's, collected cream cans from farmers along the riverbank.

The Coraki to Lismore cream boat on its final run in 1973. Picture: The Northern Star Archives

IN THE lead-up to The Northern Star's 140th anniversary in May, we are publishing photographs and stories from our archives.

The photos featured today are of the Sunshine 2nd, the Coraki to Lismore cream boat. The boat travelled up the Wilsons River (formerly known as the North Arm of the Richmond River).

It was skippered by John Roberts in 1968, and was owned in partnership with John Smith.

For many riverside farmers it was the only regular link with nearby centres, and ran three to four days a week .

There were about 40 suppliers who would leave cans of cream on a wharf or the riverbank to be picked up and taken to the butter factories in Lismore.

The boat had to be left in gear to hold it against the bank while the cans were loaded.

The cream boat had its final run in 1973.

Email us at [e-mail] if you would like to share your memories.

Coraki to Lismore Cream Boat

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