By PETER DOUGLAS
CATCHING a heritage train from the city to Belgrave could become a reality, if La Trobe MP Jason Wood gets his way.
The MP yesterday unveiled a multi-million dollar proposal which centres on transforming Puffing Billy into a ‘mega tourism destination’.
Mr Wood, on Tuesday 5 May, visited Steamrail Victoria to discuss the restoration of the old Red Rattler trains with the Clark twins, Tom and Kevin, from the ElecRail Division of Steamrail Victoria.
The proposal comprises four main elements:
* The restoration of the Red Rattler trains which would transport passengers from Melbourne central business district to the Belgrave start point of Puffing Billy.
* Building a $9 million Discovery Centre at Emerald Lake to display the rich history of the Puffing Billy and the hills.
* The creation of the Villages of Mount Dandenong Walk.
* Opening of the Bullen Bullen Indigenous Tours.
Mr Wood said the hills area was already popular among day-trippers, but more could be done to increase length of stay.
“Combining these four projects will deliver a great benefit to La Trobe and to Victoria,” he said.
“When the restoration of the Red Rattlers is complete, they can facilitate a connecting link from the CBD to Belgrave.
“Combine this with the $9 million Discovery Centre … and you have a huge incentive for tourists and Melbournians to come and explore the Dandenong Ranges.”
Other media outlets have reported that Public Transport Victoria, Victrack and Metro have been consulted.
Kevin Clark, manager at ElecRail Divison of Steamrail Victoria, said ElecRail was working collaboratively.
“ElecRail is currently working co-operatively with Metro trains to again enable the preserved Red Rattler to operate a special excursion,” he said.
“While fundamentally in good shape, the train needs a repaint following a vandal attack, and safety enhancements are also required.”
Mr Wood’s work on the National Heritage Application for the hills has been ongoing for numerous years now.
He predicted big things for the proposal.
“Not only will this be a great boost to the local economy, but if the National Heritage Application is successful, we can preserve an area that is a true gem of Australia and potentially boost international tourism as well,” he said.
Do Mr Wood’s ideas have merit, or are they just full of steam?
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