Cruising down the Hawkesbury River, have you ever imagined being a part of history in motion? The Riverboat Postman isn’t just a cruise. It’s a living, breathing piece of history, delivering mail to remote settlements since 1910. The Riverboat Postman offers a unique journey back in time. It connects the present with the past. This three-hour cruise north of Sydney offers more than just scenic views. It’s a window into a unique way of life.
The Riverboat Postman isn’t just a name. It’s a tradition. It’s a lifeline for over 200 residents in remote communities along the Hawkesbury. These settlements, like Dangar and Milson Islands, Kangaroo Point, Bar Point, Marlow Creek, Fisherman’s Point, and Milson’s Passage, rely on the Riverboat Postman. They rely on it for their connection to the outside world. As you embark on this journey, you become a part of this vital service. Imagine the anticipation of residents awaiting their mail and provisions. This is their link to news, supplies, and the wider community.
Your journey begins in Brooklyn. It’s a quaint town just a short trip from Sydney. As the boat gently glides along the river, you’ll be treated to morning tea. Savor the delicious Anzac biscuits. Enjoy a hearty Australian ploughman’s lunch. All this while surrounded by stunning 180-degree views from the lower deck. Later, relax on the open upper deck, soaking up the sun and the captivating stories. The captain, a local with a deep connection to the river, shares fascinating tales of the communities and their residents. Hear about the hardships and joys of riverside living. Laugh along with humorous anecdotes. The stories bring the river and its people to life. They paint a vivid picture of a bygone era.
Along the way, you’ll encounter landmarks steeped in history. Peat Island, a former rehab hospital turned mental hospital, stands as a silent witness to the past. The rusting wreck of the HMAS Parramatta, a World War I torpedo boat destroyer, lies partially submerged. It’s a poignant reminder of a ship’s final resting place. Milson Island’s intriguing past unfolds as you learn about its time as a quarantine station, a soldier’s hospital, a mental hospital, and even a jail. The sandstone rock formations, also known as “yellow gold,” rise majestically from the shoreline. Their beauty adds another layer to the rich tapestry of the Hawkesbury River.
The Riverboat Postman cruise is more than a tour. It’s an experience. It’s a journey through time, connecting you with the heart and soul of the Hawkesbury River.