Mid Murray Council is reviewing the sustainability of its three heritage riverboats – PS Marion, PW Mayflower and PS Canally to position itself and the vessels with the best possible operating model going forward.
Sustainability is not all about cost to Council. Other factors include the value of tourism to the broader economy, cultural and heritage identity, community pride, volunteer satisfaction, and increased operational efficiencies. Council recognises that it is unlikely that a net zero cost to Council for the operations of its heritage vessels is achievable, however it is imperative that a sustainable model is achieved.
This is an opportunity for positive change that will genuinely benefit the community and region’s economy, whilst securing the future of maritime operations. The success of any new model is of paramount importance to Council, who are committed to providing a level of resources and investment into the operations and ensuring that the vessels remain within the Mid Murray region.
It has been estimated that the annual economic and community benefit to the region from Councils maritime operations is approximately $1.2M as detailed within a draft management review of Council’s maritime operations, which is available for review in the Document Library (and as per table below). Additional information is also available in the Council report also included in the Document Library.
| Volunteerism | $708,000 |
| Re-investment of staff wages | $29,000 |
| Local and regional spending | $52,000 |
| Vessels | $436,000 |
| Total | $1,225,000 |
Council values the contribution of volunteers, who provided more than 15,000 hours to the maritime operations in 2024/2025.
Based on the 2025/26 cruise schedule analysis included in the draft management review, the vessels are likely to cost Council between $197K and $250K to operate in 2025/2026. This includes operations, and overheads such as capital renewal, depreciation, staff wages, and insurance.
Council is seeking your thoughts and feedback. This survey is a fundamental part of Council’s broad engagement in relation to its review of maritime operations, and we thank you for your input. Providing your contact details is not compulsory, however does enable us to contact you for more information and provide survey results if you choose.
If you are an individual, business or part of a community organisation that may be interested in leasing part of Council’s heritage maritime fleet, please email postbox@mid-murray.sa.gov.au to arrange a further discussion.
In addition to this survey, written submissions are invited on the Maritime Sustainability Review and can be received through the following means –
- Mid Murray Your Say feedback form,
- Letter addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Mid Murray Council, PO Box 28, Mannum SA 5238, or
- Email postbox@mid-murray.sa.gov.au
Submissions will be received until 5pm Friday 31 October 2025.
