Speeches
Saturday, 30 May 2026
Official recommissioning of the PS Canally
I am pleased to join you today to officially recommission the PS Canally.
As Governor it’s been my privilege to engage with river communities, to appreciate the Murray on and off the water, and to support local businesses and organisations in the aftermath of the floods.
Today’s festivity, The Morgan Living River Festival, has a strong reputation for its deep connection to place through guided experiences, storytelling and environmental showcases that highlight the region's unique ecosystem.
I’m pleased to be part of it with you all.
Friends,
Today is a proud and significant occasion for Morgan, for the Mid Murray region, and for South Australia.
Today, we celebrate not simply the restoration of a vessel, but the revival of an important part of our river heritage.
The PS Canally is more than timber, steel and steam.
She is a reminder of the vital role the River Murray has played in shaping the life, industry and identity of this State.
Vessels such as this connect us to the stories, skills and communities that have long depended upon the river.
Her restoration has been no small undertaking.
To return a vessel that lay at the bottom of the river to the remarkable condition in which we see her today is an extraordinary achievement.
It speaks to dedication, craftsmanship, resilience and vision.
In particular, I acknowledge the volunteers whose commitment over many years, and many thousands of hours, has made this day possible.
Through setbacks and challenges, including a pandemic, floods, droughts and even an onboard fire, your resolve has not wavered.
Your efforts are a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to preserve its history for future generations.
I acknowledge the engineers, tradespeople and all those who have contributed their expertise.
I also acknowledge the Mid Murray Council for its financial support and commitment to this important project.
From today, the PS Canally will once again help tell the story of the Murray, enrich the cultural life of the region, and support visitation to the Riverland and Murraylands.
She will also encourage future generations to value and protect South Australia’s rich maritime heritage.
To those who will captain and crew her in the years ahead, I wish you every success as you carry this vessel’s story forward with pride and care.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome the PS Canally back into service.
May she continue to steam as a symbol of heritage, community spirit and renewal for many years to come.