Judy & Brian Tour Oz: Swan Hill Vic, Pioneer Settlement, PV Pyap

Swan Hill Vic - May 17, 2015

Swan Hill has one of Australia's lesser known gems, the Pioneer Settlement village / museum.

We last came here in 2002 on our way to Broken Hill. This time we are staying in the Big 4 right next door, and of course we had all day to explore. And talking of days, today was an absolute cracker - absolutely perfect weather. Our plan was to get there in time for the 10:30 river cruise aboard the PV Pyap before spending the rest of the day wandering about. We just made it! The whistle was blowing as we went through the gate. The Pyap is an 1896 paddle wheeler originally steam powered system, but the engine has been replaced by a diesel. I can completely understand this, but it does detract from the paddle boat experience. However, the Pyap's saving grace is that it has been really nicely done-up and or / restored. It's got loads of charm and character with its polished timber work and a graceful staircase leading to the upper deck. The cruise itself was quite different from the PV Rothbury down at Mildura, the river itself is more natural for a start. Mind you we travelled some 3km upstream with a commentary about the local bits and pieces such as the Murray Downs Homestead, the house-boat marina and the PV Temeraire.

PV Pyap. Pioneer Settlement. Swan Hill Vic

Judy enjoying the sunshine aboard the PV Pyap. Pioneer Settlement. Swan Hill Vic

Back on dry land, we had a bit of a wander about the village before heading to the new cafe for lunch which comprised an excellent bowl of pumpkin soup with a meat pie chaser, washed down with a nice mug of coffee.

The village has lots of original old building moved into here from surrounding towns, and a few new buildings built in the very best of the original style from original materials. Apart from the turn of the century shops and houses, there are heaps of old machinery and cars and even a clydesdale drawn carriage. Judy took an immediate shine to Harry, and we were taken on a ride around the town. Not happy with horses, we also took a ride in the old Dodge, well maybe a couple of times...

Harry the horse. Pioneer Settlement. Swan Hill Vic

Judy and newest friend Harry. Pioneer Settlement. Swan Hill Vic

Just and the Dodge. Pioneer Settlement. Swan Hill Vic

We've been to a few of these types of places, such as Sovereign Hill, the Pioneer Village at Inverell and Herberton, and this is a really good representation of a pioneer village.