Melbourne’s Ever-Changing Ferry Scene

The tiny colonial riverport of Melbourne evolved on the Birrarung/Yarra River. The discovery of gold in the 1850s rapidly drew immigrants from afar. As a result the economy boomed and the growing population spread across the river and around Port Phillip Bay. The demand for water transportation for people, livestock, commerce and pleasure became essential.

By the late nineteenth century, public investment in bridges, railways and roads, led to a decline in public demand for ferries. Yet Melbourne’s ferries are making a comeback in our navigable waterways. This event discusses the ever-evolving Melbourne ferry story.

You will hear Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network present on Melbourne’s ferry heritage and lead a discussion on ‘where to next’. Port Phillip Ferries and Searoad Ferries will present on our current ferries.

Come along to be in the quiz to win a free ferry ride.

Presented by Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network & the Australian Heritage Festival.