Although the vessel is starting to move closer to the surface, Transport for NSW authorities said it was difficult to put a time frame on when the operation would be completed.
“Transport for NSW is continuing to monitor the complex salvage of the paddlesteamer, which sank on the Murray River earlier this month, to ensure it is completed in a safe and appropriate way to minimise the impact on the environment,” a spokesperson said.
“Any salvage of a vessel in NSW waters is the responsibility of the vessel owner.
“While the start of the salvage went smoothly, the 78 foot, 90-tonne paddlesteamer remains intact and submerged in the river.
“It is difficult to provide an accurate completion date for the salvage.”
The PV Amphibious only made its long-awaited return to Echuca’s side of the Murray River last year.
Owner Tim Mills brought the boat back to the twin towns in September, almost 143 years since it had last graced the Port of Echuca.
“It’s a beautiful town, Echuca … everyone seems friendly and very paddleboat-oriented,” Tim said at the time.
“We’d be happy to call Echuca home for a while.”
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