Volunteers with the Tasmanian Transport Museum will begin training this weekend to operate heritage passenger trains along an extended route in Hobart’s northern suburbs.
The crew training, starting on Saturday, is the final step before public rides begin on the newly approved line to Berriedale.
Services are expected to launch between late December and early January.
The museum received approval in October to extend operations beyond Grove Road to Berriedale Road, creating a longer heritage rail experience for visitors.
“… The museum has undertaken significant restoration work along the line, including the replacement of over 400 sleepers, ensuring the line’s safety and reliability,” a spokesperson said.
The all-volunteer organisation has leased the disused rail corridor between Elwick Road, Glenorchy and Mentmore Street in Chigwell since February 2021.
Heritage train rides first began in mid-2023, running between Elwick Road and Grove Road.
The extension to Berriedale is expected to draw more visitors to the Glenorchy area.
“… Visitors can look forward to a longer heritage rail experience,” the museum said.
“The extension is expected to attract both locals and tourists.”
The museum has also advised the public to expect more train movements along the corridor as training ramps up and is urging people to stay clear of the railway line.
Traffic controllers will be stationed at the Grove Road and Riverway Road level crossings during train operations.
