The Echuca Historical Society is mounting a new exhibition celebrating 60 years of the Southern 80 Ski Race, a cornerstone sporting event that has shaped the Murray River region’s identity.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Running from December 18 through March 31, 2026, the exhibition showcases an impressive collection of historic ski gear, race memorabilia and trophies that chronicle the evolution of this internationally acclaimed water skiing competition.
“Few events capture the spirit of Echuca-Moama quite like the Southern 80,” Echuca Historical Society president Matthew Wilson said.
“This exhibition not only celebrates the speed and skill of the competitors, but also the community pride and volunteer spirit that have kept the race thriving for decades.”
The centrepiece of the exhibition is the prestigious Leigh Johnson perpetual trophy, alongside an array of vintage treasures including 1960s wooden skis, original race bibs and memorabilia from the legendary Island Cooler racing team of the 1990s.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the race’s rich history through a curated collection of historic photographs and race footage, complemented by compelling personal narratives from past competitors.
The exhibition will be housed at the Echuca Historical Society Museum, 1 Dickson St, Echuca.
The museum welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 2pm, offering a window into this thrilling chapter of regional sporting heritage.
