Upgrades to the Bellarine Railway have been completed after $3.4 million was invested into the project by the state government.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant on Monday officially announced the completion of works along the 16.5km line between Queenscliff and Drysdale.
Established more than 140 years ago, the railway has a strong history operating as an important defence line ferrying military traffic from South Geelong to Fort Queenscliff and Swan Island.
The heritage train passes through vibrant scenery and was reborn as a tourist attraction in 1979 run by the Geelong Steam Preservation Society.
“The society and its volunteers do an incredible job running this railway, and it’s fantastic to give them the support they need so this rail experience can continue to attract visitors to the region,” Ms Marchant said.
The railway also hosts the popular Q Train – offering an award-winning dining experience and the Blues Train featuring live music and dining.
The replacement of sleepers and rails along the line have boosted ride quality and safety for passengers to enjoy the iconic line well into the future.
“The Geelong Steam Preservation Society welcomes the upgrades to the railway that will ensure the viability of the operation for future generations,” Geelong Steam Preservation Society president Steve Dalton said.
