The PS Oscar W paddle steamer, Goolwa’s symbol of the region’s proud maritime heritage, will celebrate its 115th birthday this Sunday 1 October.

The party is a last hurrah ahead of a temporary relocation to Hector’s Jetty in the Goolwa Wharf Precinct. 

The birthday milestone will be marked with a twilight cruise on Saturday 30 September, and special one-hour cruises on Sunday, 1 October, at 11am, 1pm, and 2.30pm. 

On 20 October the wood-fired paddle steamer will move to Hector’s Jetty, located just south of the vessel’s usual dock, allow for restoration of the historic Goolwa Wharf.

The paddle steamer will return to its permanent dock at Goolwa Wharf in front of the Wharf Shed once the redevelopment is complete. 

Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes is excited about the upcoming celebrations. 

"It will be great to get out on the water to mark the PS Oscar W’s 115th birthday, and it is wonderful to see the Goolwa Wharf restoration moving forward. 

“The work done now to improve the Wharf will support the PS Oscar W for many years to come and preserve Goolwa’s rich history for future generations." 

Since its construction in Echuca, Victoria, in 1908, the PS Oscar W has been an integral part of Australia's river trade history. 

Originally servicing the Murrumbidgee River and Upper Murray trade, the vessel has called Goolwa home since 1942. 

Alexandrina Council acquired the vessel for a symbolic $1 in 2001. In 2008, the paddle steamer was brought back into survey for its 100th birthday. 

Today, the PS Oscar W stands as a testament to the hard work of a dedicated group of volunteers who play a vital role in its maintenance and operation. 

Alexandrina Council has expressed its gratitude for the support of retired and skilled professionals who maintain their qualifications for the PS Oscar W's maintenance and operation. 

The council invites the public to join in the festivities and help celebrate an essential piece of South Australian history.

For cruise bookings, contact the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre on 1300 466 59, or via email, or visit the website.