The PS Canberra is a historic paddle steamer operating in Echuca, known for its significance as the oldest vessel in the Murray River Paddlesteamer fleet. Constructed in 1912 at Goolwa, South Australia, by the Conner family, she was originally a single-deck fishing steamer used at Boundary Bend as part of a fleet that included the PS Etona and PS Ranger. Her initial design prioritized fishing activities, with her steam engine providing the power necessary for river navigation. In 1945, the vessel was sold to the Collins family in Mildura, where modifications were made, including the addition of a second deck, marking her transition into a pioneering tourist vessel. This period established her as an excursion boat, and she became a fixture for river tourism. Notably, in 1947, Captain Charles Frederick William Payne referenced the Canberra as being "afloat at Mildura" as an excursion vessel. Her reputation as a tourist steamer was further solidified when, in 1953, she was purchased by Captain Hilary Hogg for operation in Renmark, following renovations and improvements. The vessel’s first trip with the Governor of South Australia aboard occurred in October of that year. The Canberra’s role in river tourism expanded further in the 1960s when she was relocated to Echuca, becoming part of efforts to promote local tourism. During this time, her steam engine, described as "spotless" in 1964, was replaced in 1971 with a Perkins Marine Diesel engine, which was connected to the original fitting, creating the impression that the vessel was still steam-powered. In the early 2000s, the PS Canberra underwent a major refit, including the installation of a 1923 Marshall and Sons portable steam engine, restoring her to a steam-powered state. She resumed service in 2003 and continues to operate as a tourist attraction, offering daily hour-long cruises in Echuca. Her preservation and ongoing operation highlight her maritime significance as the oldest paddle steamer on the Murray River, celebrated for her century-long history and contribution to river tourism.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.