A beloved Launceston playground locomotive has been given a second chance at life after being rescued by volunteer railway enthusiasts.
The diesel shunter known as Hutch was removed from City Park over the Easter weekend as part of Launceston City Council’s rejuvenation plans for the area.
Don River Railway stepped in to save the 35-year-old locomotive, which had been deteriorating despite protective measures.
The Devonport-based heritage railway group successfully transported Hutch and an accompanying wagon to their workshop for restoration.
“We … heard that the locomotive that was there was going to be removed. So we reached out in late 2025,” Sam Cook, president of Don River Railway, told Pulse.
“We got a positive response from them.”
The locomotive has deep connections to the volunteer organisation.
It originally belonged to Don River Railway before being swapped to the city in 1990 for a steam locomotive that previously occupied the park.
“We actually still have many of the original components of it from before it was put into City Park,” Cook said.
“We’ve got an engine for it, we’ve got a gearbox. We actually still have the original glass from the windows believe it or not.”
The locomotive’s name honours David Hutchinson, a founding member of Don River Railway and key supporter of heritage railways in Tasmania.
Cook said the restoration timeline remains uncertain, potentially taking anywhere from one to five years to restore it.
The locomotive will likely be used for workshop duties and occasional passenger services.
Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood defended the decision to relocate Hutch, acknowledging community emotions around the move.
“There’s been a lot of emotion and strong views around Hutch being removed from City Park,” he said.
“And honestly.. that’s fair. Hutch isn’t just a piece of equipment.
“He’s part of people’s childhoods. Part of family stories and a significant part of Launceston.”
“What we’ve now done is give him a future.”
Don River Railway is seeking volunteers to help with the restoration project.
