We continue south through the Murray River Valley from Mildura. A great deal of agriculture (grapes, oranges, stone fruit - peaches, nectarines, avocado - almonds, grain). There is also plenty of uncultivated land. It appears the major factor is water. Where irrigation systems are in place, land is extensively utilized. The Murray is truly the lifeblood of a good part of central Australia. Arrived in Echuca by mid-afternoon. It is a town rich in the history of the Murray River and is making the most of it to boost the tourist industry. Like much of the Murray, houseboats and small cruise boats (cruises of a few hours) abound.