“Restaway” Houseboat Restoration 

Project Overview

Originally built by Wally Baldwin in the late 1980s, Restaway holds a special place in the Baldwin Boats story. Recently purchased by Chris, Kim and Madison Baldwin, the vessel underwent an extensive refurbishment, bringing a much-loved Baldwin-built houseboat back to life while retaining its original character and history.

The project went far beyond a cosmetic renovation, with Restaway stripped back and extensively rebuilt across its structural, mechanical, electrical and interior systems. The result combines the character of the original vessel with modern technology, comfort and improved off-grid capability.

Works completed by Baldwin Boats (With Assistance from PRW Elite Contracting, Zigz Plumbing & Adams & Slatter Electrical) included:

  • Complete strip-out and refurbishment of the existing vessel
  • Full re-fibreglassing of the houseboat roof
  • Construction of a new upper deck roof structure
  • Re-cladding of the front and rear deck walls
  • New interior wall and ceiling linings
  • Complete kitchen refurbishment and fit-out
  • Refurbishment of bedrooms, bathroom and living areas
  • Installation of new cabinetry, fittings and interior finishes
  • Installation of new air-conditioning, including main living-area unit
  • Installation of a 7.04kW solar system
  • Installation of 6kW Sigenergy inverter
  • Installation of approximately 24kWh Sigenergy battery storage
  • Re-Installation and integration of Honda EU70is 7kVA petrol generator
  • Electrical upgrades and fit-out throughout the vessel
  • Installation of upgraded lighting and electrical controls
  • Installation of Fusion marine audio system
  • Installation and integration of Smart TV and onboard entertainment
  • Installation of Starlink internet system
  • Installation of new water pump
  • Upgrades to freshwater and onboard plumbing systems
  • Installation of outdoor shower servicing the rear deck/swim area
  • Upgrades and refurbishment of exterior entertaining areas
  • Refurbishment of upper deck entertaining area, Including Fabrication of Bar and Laundry Cupboard.
  • Re-Installation and fit-out new controls of Mercury 150HP outboard
  • General mechanical servicing and system upgrades
  • Final fit-out, testing and commissioning of onboard systems

Today, Restaway operates as a moored accommodation houseboat in Mildura, giving guests the opportunity to experience the Murray River aboard a vessel that forms part of Baldwin Boats’ own history.

From its original construction by Wally Baldwin in the late 1980s to its complete transformation by the next generations of the Baldwin family, Restaway has come full circle — a piece of Baldwin Boats history, rebuilt for a new generation on the river.

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