The Darling River Run

One of Australia’s great driving adventures in Outback NSW

PS Ruby Built in 1907

PS Ruby Built in 1907

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Address:
Fotherby Park, Wentworth Street, Wentworth NSW, Australia, Wentworth
Description:

P.S. Ruby was re-commissioned in July 2004

Built at Morgan, S.A., in 1907, she was the 4th paddle-steamer to be called ‘Ruby’. She transported passengers and cargo between Echuca, Mildura, Wentworth and Goolwa. After a long and busy life, Ruby slowly fell into disrepair, ending her days as a houseboat at Mildura.

Ruby was purchased by the Rotary Club of Wentworth in 1968 and was dry docked in Fotherby Park, as a reminder of the riverboat era. In 1995, the Rotary Club handed ownership to the Wentworth community, in the trusteeship of the Wentworth Shire Council.

In 1996 a Restoration Committee was formed from representatives of local organisations and the Wentworth Shire Council. Six years and 1000’s of volunteer hours later, Ruby had a brand new hull and she was returned to water in a dock pond. Excitement grew as the steam engine became operational. She was all steamed up for her 100th Birthday in 2007. The P.S. Ruby is not currently in operation; however, you can still go and visit her docked at Fotherby Park.