Suzan Dalziel explores the port with volunteers Alex Kociski, Richard Carlson, Julie Hasselo and Teresa Carlson. Photo: Supplied. Photo: Supplied.
The Port of Echuca has recruited new faces dressed in period costumes to help visitors immerse themselves in the history of the port.
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The team of volunteers, who began in July, can be seen wandering the port on the first Saturday of each month.
The return of volunteers dressed in period costumes will revive a tradition that began in the 1970s during the Port Restoration Project.
At the time, the port wanted to be as authentic as possible, and so period costumes became an important part of the colonial streetscape and the port experience.
Community members would also join in on the fun, dressing in period costumes to visit the port and during special occasions such as the old annual Heritage Steam Festival.
Port of Echuca museum curation and volunteer co-ordinator Suzan Dalziel with volunteers Teresa Carlson, Richard Carlson, Alex Kociski and Julie Hasselo. Photo: Joey Blow.
Port of Echuca museum curation and volunteer co-ordinator Suzan Dalziel said the volunteers received glowing feedback during their first shift.
“On our first outing recently, we received wonderful positive feedback as visitors and port traders went out of their way to express their delight at seeing the elegant fashion of a striking top hat, parasol or hoop skirt back in the port again,” she said.
“Children especially were captivated by the stately procession of well-dressed ladies and gentlemen; often it’s the first time they’ve seen anything like it.
“It’s a fun and unexpected way to connect with all ages, (it) helps them have a memorable time at the port, and teaches them a little something about history without them realising it.”
Teresa Carlson and Richard Carlson are among the port’s new team of volunteers. Photo: Joey Blow.
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