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Railway calling for extra hands this summer

August 8, 2022 BY

Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway volunteer Steve Stefanou with a family of three in tow. Photos: IVAN KEMP

GREATER GEELONG’S only miniature railway is in need of volunteers and calling out for people to join the team ahead of the busy summer months on the Bellarine.

Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway president Keith Stasinowski said the railway, located at the corner of Point Richards Road and Boat Road, will begin running its weekly schedule every Sunday out of Point Richards Station from the start of September and there are several roles available for potential railway helpers.

“We have nearly anything on offer from station attendants, station masters, guards on the fence, drivers, barbecue cooks, signallers and people to work the till at the kiosk, so we have a wide variety of what is available,” Mr Stasinowski said.

“The winter months act as a recess time for the railway where we only operate on the first and third Sunday of every month, but as spring comes around, we will need as many additional hands as we can get.”

Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway volunteer George Buhugiar in action.

Portarlington’s miniature railway has brought enjoyment to generations of families since its first operated public running day in January 1999.

The railway is Australia’s only miniature railway located on a foreshore providing a true Bellarine feeling to visitors on the track, but the view is not why Mr Stasinowski keeps returning to the track.

“Seeing the kids’ faces as they get on the train is priceless, they start jumping up and down before it even leaves the station and when they get off at the end, it’s nothing but breaming smiles and happy families, it really makes the day for our volunteers,” Mr Stasinowski said.

“We are also encouraging local teens 16 years and older to come down, they’re more than welcome if they’re keen for semi-work experience handling the public or working as an attendant.

“It’s a great group of people and we definitely see the railway as a fantastic community asset.”

If any volunteers are interested in lending a helping hand at the railway over the next six months, contact [email protected] to get in touch.