Cruise the tranquil waters of the historic Darling-Baaka River aboard the iconic Paddle Vessel (PV) Jandra - an unforgettable experience that brings the golden age of riverboats back to life. Learn about the region’s rich riverboat history from expert guides on this nostalgic river journey.
The original Jandra, a steam paddle boat, graced the waters in 1894, commissioned by Arthur Senior of Bourke. In 2000, Russell Mansell and his family crafted the modern PV Jandra, marking a historic return to paddle boat operations on the Darling River after a hiatus of over six decades.
Embark on a journey along the renowned Darling River aboard this majestic paddle vessel. Explore the river's rich history and natural beauty with a unique and iconic experience that harkens back to a bygone era of river travel. Experience the Darling-Baaka River's beauty and history aboard the Jandra Paddleboat, an iconic and educational journey into the heart of this picturesque region.
As you gently glide along the river in the PV Jandra, you’ll be treated to fascinating commentary from the knowledgeable and enthusiastic Captain. Learn about the rich heritage of the region’s riverboat era, the significance of the Darling-Baaka River to local communities and Indigenous culture, and the incredible flora and fauna that thrive along its banks.
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply in search of a peaceful escape, a cruise on the PV Jandra offers something special for everyone. Sit back, relax, and soak up the stunning outback scenery as the paddlewheels churn and the river tells its stories.
Your unforgettable river adventure begins at the Kidman's Camp dock near the Back O’ Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of the Darling River aboard the beloved Jandra Paddle Vessel - a true Bourke treasure.
The Darling-Baaka River, known to many as the Baaka or Barka, is one of Australia’s most significant waterways—spanning over 1,500 kilometres from its headwaters to its confluence with the Murray at Wentworth. It has long been a vital lifeline for people, wildlife, and culture in western New South Wales.
For thousands of years, the river has held deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the Barkindji people, whose name means ‘people of the river.’ It has shaped trade routes, guided seasonal movements, and sustained communities through drought and flood.
European settlers later relied on the river as a key transport route. Paddle steamers once navigated its waters, connecting remote towns and moving wool, goods, and people across the inland.
Today, while its role has changed, the Darling-Baaka remains central to life in the region, carrying not just water, but stories, histories, and the enduring spirit of the outback.
The modern PV Jandra was built in 2000 by Russell Mansell and his family, who largely designed it from memory and pictures, demonstrating ‘bush ingenuity.’ PV Jandra is now owned by the Bourke Shire Council. It was the first paddle vessel to operate on the Darling River in over 60 years.
The original Jandra was a steam paddle boat built in 1894 in Mannum, South Australia for Arthur Senior of Bourke to service the region.
It was a traditional steam paddle boat used for the riverboat trade. The Jandra worked the Darling River until the rise of other transport.
By the late 1800s, paddle steamers like the original PV Jandra were commonplace on the Murray-Darling river system with towns like Mannum thriving as river ports.
Paddleboats transported supplies to stations and carried wool back to Bourke, a vital role for the area at the time. The arrival of other forms of transport eventually led to the decline of the paddle steamer era on the Darling River.
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