Trams transformation on track in Bendigo

WORK in Bendigo to transform two historic W Class trams into unique picnic shelters is on schedule for completion in the middle of this year.

The two trams, supplied by VicTrack as part of its Retired Trams Strategy, are being overhauled by Bendigo Tramways at the organisation’s local workshop, and are destined for installation at Wattle Park in Burwood.

Specifically, they will be positioned near a playground at a popular community park.

Bendigo Tramways is regarded as a world class tram restoration and tourism facility, and has benefited from a $10.7 million upgrade funded by the State Government.

Local team members are performing the work to repurpose the trams into picnic shelters.

They will be just one part of the Wattle Park upgrade project, which also includes a new all-abilities playspace with swings, spinners, a sensory garden and double-storey tram-shaped fort, a 3.25-kilometre walking track, a ceremonial space, and new barbecues, tables and shelters in the picnic area.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards visited the workshop recently to inspect the refurbishment works, and was pleased with what she saw.

“Bendigo’s heritage trams are a special part of our city, and the team at Bendigo Tramways have the specialist knowledge to ensure these beautiful trams are given a new lease of life in Wattle Park,” Ms Edwards said.

Bendigo Tramways CEO James Reade said the workshop is a world class facility.

“Projects such as the Wattle Park picnic shelters are great as they ensure we keep the skills and expertise that we need to maintain our own tram fleet whilst providing great community assets that showcase heritage trams,” he said.

The Government has allocated $4.3 million through its Suburban Parks Program and $850,000 through its Urban Parks Wellbeing Program to advance the upgrades, which are part of the Wattle Park Master Plan.