The Derwent Valley Railway has unveiled a staged plan to rebuild and restore its long-dormant rail corridor between New Norfolk and Boyer.
The plan sets out how the volunteer-run organisation will revive the corridor in stages, starting inside the New Norfolk rail yard.
It follows the railway’s announcement that it has secured a 3.1-kilometre lease on the Boyer line, its first access to that section of corridor in more than 20 years.
Early works will rebuild track between Back River Road and Third Avenue, with progressive sleeper replacement, fresh ballast and vegetation clearing.
Restoration will then extend toward Boyer Station as further access, approvals and infrastructure upgrades are completed.
Derwent Valley Railway chairman Matthew Davey said the plan was an important milestone for the organisation.
“This plan provides a clear pathway forward for the restoration and long-term preservation of the Derwent Valley Railway corridor,” Davey said.
“It reflects a practical staged approach that balances safety, compliance, volunteer capability and future operational goals.”
Secretary Maurice Hays said the project was about “more than rebuilding track”.
“It is about rebuilding capability, strengthening the organisation, training volunteers and ensuring the corridor remains protected and maintained into the future,” he said.
The plan also commits to ongoing vegetation management to improve safety, visibility and drainage, alongside expanded training opportunities for volunteers and member.
The organisation says it will work “respectfully and cooperatively” with locals along the line as maintenance and restoration activities progress.
The railway says all future works will be carried out under an updated safety plan and meet the requirements of the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator.
The organisation confirmed that heritage rail operations beyond Boyer, including the longer-term vision toward Westerway and Mount Field National Park, remained part of its broader strategic plans.
The railway is asking community members interested in volunteering or supporting the project to get in touch.
