When Captain Jack Treacy, affectionately known as ‘Captain Redgum’, addressed the Shepparton Historical Society in May 1974, he shared a lifetime of stories from the mighty Murray and Goulburn rivers.
A third-generation riverboat skipper, Jack believed paddle steamer history was about more than boats. “You have to include the families,” he said, remembering those who built, worked and often lived aboard these floating communities.
One of his proudest achievements was helping restore the Alexander Arbuthnot. Despite spending 25 years underwater, its red gum hull remained remarkably intact, showcasing the craftsmanship of master shipwright Fenshaw.
Navigating the rivers required exceptional skill. Without GPS, skippers memorised dangerous snags, sandbars and reefs. Paddle steamers and barges transported timber, wool and essential supplies, whenever river levels permitted.
The Treacy family knew the timber trade well. Their paddle steamer Sawmiller hauled red gum logs from Gunbower Island before eventually sinking in Nagambie Lake.
Not every memory involved hard work. Jack’s wife, Ette, entertained passengers as pianist aboard the Avoca. On one memorable cruise, the vessel, licensed for 300 passengers, returned with an astonishing 640 aboard after another boat broke down.
In 1948, the family purchased a steam-powered sawmill in Mooroopna. Treacy’s Sawmill operated for 40 years, and Treacy St remains a reminder of their legacy.
Captain Redgum’s stories remind us river history is about the people behind the vessels, whose skills and dedication helped shape our region.
Do you have a story to share? We would love to hear about your local, family and community stories, memories, events and historical photos. Email: info@sheppartonheritage.com.au or phone 4831 8659.
