Fleet of paddle-steamers for sale in Mildura

Melbourne is up for sale, one of three iconic paddle-steamers on the Murray River.

After spending more than 60 years in one family, three time capsules of Mildura’s history may run aground unless a new captain comes to the helm.

The Pointon and Mckenzie families that currently operate three historic paddle-steamers on the Murray River have being working with the fleet their entire lives.

“It started up with out with parents in 1955, they bought a small launch at Mildura and house that was there first boat operation,” Lyn Mckenzie said.

“When my parents retired me and my brother chris took on the business, and we’ve been doing since 1987.”

The siblings have decided is time to move on, but they hope the boats continue to take passengers down the Murray.

Three iconic paddle-steamers are being sold off after spending 60 years in the same family. Picture: Supplied / First National Real Estate.

“We’re at retirement age, and it time to go on a holiday ourselves … my hope is that they stay in mildura and to keep operating” she said.

The three paddle-steamers are named the “Melbourne”, “Mundoo” and “Rothbury”, and the family is willing to sell them individually or as a package.

The Rothbury was built in 1881 and is now up for sale. Picture: Supplied / First National Real Estate

“Melbourne” was originally built in 1912 and is one of few steamers on the Murray that still uses its original steam engine.

The “Mundoo” is the largest of the fleet, making it the best suited lager functions like weddings and dinner cruises.

Lastly the oldest vessel, the “Rothbury” was originally built in 1881 and still has the original wheelhouse and top deck cabins.

All three vessels also come with their own moorings as well.

First National Real Estate agent Patrick Gary said there was currently no price formally listed as there was quite a wide range of buying options available.

“There is a lot of different proposals available, because they can buy two, they can buy one, or all three. They also come with a block of land,” he said.

“Depending on what you want it could be $600,000 or $6m.”

For more purchase information, click here.