Thursday, 22 March 2016

Walhalla Station will soon be safer, more accessible and easier to get to, thanks to a $50,000 investment by the Andrews Labor Government

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, announced the significant investment today, which will help the popular Walhalla Goldfields Railway (WGR) continue to attract visitors and support the local economy.

WGR is visited by around 34,000 people each year, making it Victoria’s second busiest tourist and heritage rail operator.

The Andrews Labor Government’s significant investment, coupled with a $5,000 contribution from WGR, will improve accessible toilet facilities at the station and seal the car park, access road and platform.

The Andrews Labor Government’s $50,000 investment is being provided through the Transport Investing in Regions initiative, which supports local community transport across regional Victoria. For more information, visit www.ecodev.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing:

“This $50,000 investment will help Walhalla Goldfields Railway to continue attracting thousands of visitors every year, supporting jobs and the local economy.”

“The funding will make the station safer, more accessible and easier to get to, and will improve the experience for visitors to this wonderful Gippsland heritage rail service.”

“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in local transport and heritage attractions all over regional Victoria, to help people get around and to support our local communities and their histories.”

Quotes attributable to President of Walhalla Goldfields Railway Inc, Michael Leaney:

“The sealed platform and carpark as well as disabled toilet facilities are a much needed improvements that will improve the public safety, equal access and presentation of the busy Walhalla railway tourist and heritage precinct.”

“Walhalla is one of Victoria’s iconic heritage villages and the volunteer-operated Walhalla Goldfields Railway is one of the most popular heritage rail lines in the State.”

“The newly upgraded facilities will also provide a greatly enhanced experience for all visitors with accessibility needs.”