Works finished at Port miniature railway

A SMALL but popular tourist attraction on the Bellarine Peninsula is building up steam for summer crowds via support from a Victorian government grant.

The Victorian government provided $21,000 through the Tiny Towns Fund for the repainting and repairs to the exterior of the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway station and signal box, which have been weathered and time-worn due to their coastal location.

The Tiny Towns grant meant volunteers who operate the railway could contract the works to local tradespeople, so they could focus on providing affordable family entertainment for locals and drawing in visitors.

Established in 1999, the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway is Geelong’s only 7.25 inch and 5 inch miniature railway and Australia’s only railway located on a foreshore.

Located on eight hectares of native parklands and directly next to the beaches of Portarlington overlooking Port Phillip Bay, the railway operates on the first and third Sunday of every month and more frequently during school and summer holidays.

 

It continues to be operated by volunteers, with this year marking the ninth anniversary of the present volunteer group’s operations.

The $20 million Tiny Towns Fund backs community-driven projects that enhance the state’s smallest towns, strengthen community connections, and encourage more visitors to all corners of Victoria.

Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney and Bellarine MP Allison Marchant visited the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway on Sunday to announce the completion of maintenance works.

“It’s great to see such a passionate group of volunteers so dedicated to showcasing the natural beauty of this special part of the Bellarine Peninsula and providing an experience that locals and tourists can enjoy,” Ms Tierney said.

“These upgrades will support the hardworking volunteers who drive, operate, maintain, and care for the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway to keep it running well into the future.”

The Victorian government says it has spent $45 billion on projects and programs designed to support regional and rural Victorian cities and towns since 2014.

“Places like the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway are so important to our community, and it’s great to see it get a new lease of life,” Ms Marchant said.

“This investment means families, locals and visitors will continue to be able to have a fun day out, making the most of our beautiful corner of Victoria.”

For more information on the Tiny Towns Fund, head to rdv.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/tiny-towns-fund