Full steam ahead for Bellarine tourist railway
17/08/2023A major track upgrade supported by the Victorian Government will keep the Bellarine Railway steaming between Queenscliff and Drysdale for years to come.
Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing today announced works along the 16.5 kilometres of line have been completed, thanks to a $3.4 million investment from the government.
The railway was established more than 140 years ago and has a long history operating as an important defence line ferrying military traffic from South Geelong to Fort Queenscliff and Swan Island.
It also served as a commuter line until it was reborn as a tourist attraction in 1979, offering a heritage train experience run by the Geelong Steam Preservation Society, passing through scenery and lands rich in history.
The railway also hosts the popular Q Train offering an award-winning dining experience, and the Blues Train featuring live music and dining.
However, after years of use, the conditon of the track had degraded significantly and needed upgrading.
The project saw the replacement of sleepers and rails along the line, then tamping and laying of ballast to keep it stable.
The result is a significant improvement in ride quality, and ensures tourists can safely enjoy the scenic ride well into the future.
The project is part of the Victorian Government’s investment of more than $41 billion in rural and regional Victoria since 2015, transforming and boosting local economics and jobs growth.