The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath has called on the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events in State Parliament to assist the Walhalla Goldfields Railway to fund a feasibility study to extend the mountain railway to Erica.
The Walhalla Goldfields railway has been gifted up to ten kilometres of track which is sufficient to extend the track through to the town of Erica.
Speaking in State Parliament Ms Bath said the Walhalla Goldfield Railway extension to Erica has been a long held dream of the hardworking volunteer Committee of Management who care for the tourist attraction.
“The Committee is eager to instigate a facility study to bring the project to life and enhance the visitor experience.
“Given the economic benefit the Walhalla Goldfields Railway generates to tourism, the State Government must assist with the feasible study.”
Ms Bath said a study would provide direction for the way forward to complete the final stage of the Walhalla Goldfields Railway track.
“The track extension project would deliver a significant boost to Gippsland’s economy which has suffered under Labor following its fast tracked closures of timber and coal industries, extended Covid lock downs and lost potential at the cancellation of the Commonwealth Games
“Walhalla is a jewel in Gippsland’s crown, connecting the rail line to Erica makes sense given the attraction is one of the most successful tourist railways in Victoria, coming second to Puffing Billy.
“The dedicated Walhalla Goldfields Railway volunteers have the will; they just require assistance with the way”.
