Under the Hobart Heritage Rail plan, the Tasmanian Transport Museum plans to expand its present rail operations to the former TasRail suburban line between Glenorchy and Granton. The last TasRail freight train operated on the line in 2014 and is now defined by TasRail as a “non-operational line”.
The Tasmanian Transport Museum currently holds a lease with the Tasmanian Government for the Glenorchy (Elwick Rd) to Chigwell (Mentmore St) section of the line, under the Strategic Infrastructure Corridors Act 2016.
Year 1 Objective –
Operate trains between Elwick Rd and Grove Rd in the first 12 months. Commencement 21 May 2023.
Year 2 Objective –
Extend operations from Grove Rd to Berriedale Road, including installation of crossing lights.
Year 3 Objective –
To extend operations from Berriedale to Mentmore St, Chigwell (possibly Box Hill Rd). Establish a passing loop (most likely near Box Hill Rd). Installation of an additional set of crossing lights.
Years 4 / 5 Objective –
Maximise revenue opportunities and consider the viability extending rail operations to Granton. Installation of additional crossing lights. Establish a passing loop at Granton.
Opportunities
- Extended train rides for patrons, including school and tour groups
- Special event trains (Dark MOFO)
- Dinner train with a dedicated Dining Carriage
- Lunch and dinner trains to local wineries and restaurants within the Granton area
- Local employment and further volunteer roles
Progress Status – As of December 2023
After completing track work on the Elwick Rd to Grove Rd section in May 2023, work is now focused on the Grove Rd to Berriedale Rd section. As of December 30th, sleeper replacement has reached the Brooker Highway overpass.
The final section of track between Berriedale Rd and Mentmore St is anticipated to be be completed by the end of Q1 2024. Further extension of train rides will be dependent on level crossing installations.
LINKS
