This book captures the stories of the families who made the River Murray's locks and barrages.
Built during the early part of this century, the weirs, locks and barages were major engineering works which required hundreds of workers to live for long periods in some very harsh and challenging times, often a long way from their homes and families.
Their life was definitely not easy. They often lived in very remote locations. There are memories of difficult schooling, of houses with external walls made from kerosene tins, internally most had dirt floors divided by hessian curtaining. These were very unpleasant conditions but they produced a group of people united by strong bonds of friendship, shared experiences and memories of important work well done.
Australia and South Australia, in particular, have benefited enormously from the efforts of the people who built and operated the structures that control, distribute and regulate the Murray system. The river is now permanently navigable for about 1000 kilometers from the mouth to above Mildura.
The author, Rob Linn is one of SA's most noted historical authors.
The River Murray Locks and Barrages Reunion Committee Inc were responsible for having the book written and it was launched in September 2001. It is in it's third re-print. Committee convenor is Max Pearson who is available for public speaking engagements. Contact Max on 08 8589 3053.
Do yourself a favour and purchase the book and discover the history of the great Australian waterway.
