IN THE AIR: At 2.30pm on Sunday Echuca-Moama pilots Adrian van der Sluys and Michael Jones will stage a fly-over in conjunction with the Victorian and NSW community walk to the middle of the new bridge. They are flying almost identical, bright-red, home-made Pitts Special aerobatic biplanes. The planes are capable of hitting speeds of more than 300kmh and will provide a spectacular, albeit brief, spectacle at the event. The pilots practise their craft every Wednesday in the skies above the twin towns, so it will not be a new phenomenon for everyone.
ON THE WATER: Paddle boats, steamers, barges and other water craft have been invited to be involved in a sail past, which will be led by Lou Iannacone’s historic Amphibious boat. The Tooraloora (on the right of this picture), owned by Reverend Harry Monro, is among several of the easily recognisable Murray River craft. Reverend Munro will be completing a blessing of the bridge from the bow of the Amphibious, which will also have a 13-piece brass and wind band from Shepparton playing a variety of Australiana tunes during a sail past beneath the new bridge.
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IN VICTORIA: Free sausages and ice-cream will be available, on a first in-first served basis as organisers of the community event still are not sure of just how many people will be at the opening. Echuca-Moama Rotary Club will operate the barbecue and the Port Ice Creamery will be popular on what is being tipped as a 28-degree autumn day. Mobility buses for those unable to complete the Walk of the People will be made available from 10.30am and several of Echuca-Moama’s aged care facilities have already taken up the offer to have their residents involved in the drive-over
IN NEW SOUTH WALES: Five thousands Australian flags will be offered to participants in the Walk of the People, adding a patriotic and colourful flavour to the occasion. It also doubles as a fundraising initiative for Echuca Regional Health’s Cancer and Wellness Centre (donations can be given for the flags).While there will be a significant VIP element to the Sunday, April 10, event — with a welcome to country and smoking ceremonies — the Murray River Council has worked closely with organisers to ensure its celebration is every bit the equal of its Victorian equivalent. Gates will be thrown open to the Walk of the People at 2pm.
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