Randell House: Mannum

The name of the riverboat king, William Randell is probably not as well known in Australia as it should be. After all he was the father of the riverboat trade on the Murray and his feats have inspired many since he sailed the first paddlesteamer down the river in 1863. In fact as Postcards revealed earlier this year, his persistence recently inspired Goolwa resident Roly Bartlett to build his own paddlesteamer in memory of the man who opened up the River Murray to commerce. But William Randell's story starts further upstream at Mannum. It was there that he built his home which is now owned by Helen Stephens Ryan and which has been transformed into immaculate Bed and Breakfast accommodation. "It was built in 1869 and built by his brother who lived in Mannum." It was from this two storey residence that William Randell oversaw the establishment of his riverboat fleet. Prior to the arrival of paddlesteamers, supplies were transported throughout the state by bullock wagon, a slow and laborious method of transport. William saw the need for a more efficient means to carry goods to outlying districts. Soon he'd built his own paddlesteamer no mean feat for a man who knew more about cattle than navigation. "The man had no idea about the river systems but managed to navigate between the South Australian and New South Wales Borders."

Randell established the first dry dock on the Murray and soon his and a host of other boats were plying these waters. Helen Stephens Ryans love affair with Randell House also has a riverboat connection. She first spotted it while working as a cruise director on board the Murray Princess. "Of course I used to cruise pass this fantastic property and dreamed about owning it and wished it one day it was up for sale." When it did, Helen jumped at the chance to own this piece of South Australian history and with help from business partner Stephen Gates, has returned it to its former glory. "I felt because of the history of this place I wanted to keep its natural charm and when I started I found it was lovely." You too can enjoy this piece of history with the two backrooms available for $85 a night. The front room with Walnut bed made in 1885 costs $120 a night. For bookings call Helen Stephens Ryan at Randell House on (08) 8569 2747. For more information you can email info@postcards-sa.com.au