Twenty three Pakenham East Probus Club members drifted back into a different time when the state’s waterways were its highways and a journey from the Port of Sale passed the landmark Swing Bridge.
Members spotted birds as they cruised leisurely up the river and the guide recounted the region’s remarkable stories from its first people, the Gunnaikurnai, through early settlement to the present day.
The scene was set as members boarded The Rubeena, a classy wooden boat which was first launched at Lakes Entrance in 1912.
The travellers relaxed into her quite rhythm and enjoyed the voyage along the Sale Canal and Thompson River, surrounded by red gums a “canoe” tree, birdsong and reminders of a fascinating heritage.
A sandwich lunch was enjoyed in the Sale Art Gallery where the visitors viewed local artists’ creative works ranging from lino-cut prints to huge Aladdin style ceramic pots.
The long bus trip home was broken with a stop-off at the Yarragon village.
Members extend a big thank you to their outings officer, Laurie Hudgson, for his excellent organisation.
