ITS return has been highly anticipated and, this weekend, the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway will be back on track.
After an almost 12-month, COVID-19 recess, eager passengers are invited to board the engine at Karadoc station on Sunday to celebrate the railway’s first excursion of the year.
Railway president John Fitzgibbon said volunteers had been working hard to get the popular tourist attraction back up to speed.
“Like everyone starting afresh for a new year, the railway volunteers have been cleaning, painting and renovating the train for 2021,” he said.
“This involved working bees for several hours this week.
“Railway members are extremely excited that we have finally reached this time and warmly welcome all our visitors to a new start.”
The railway’s historic diesel engine, affectionately known as Harry, will service the line this weekend as the principal attraction, the steam locomotive Lukee, is out due to fire restrictions.
While riding the train was already a thrill, Mr Fitzgibbon said the highlight of the trip was watching the operation of the turntable and rail interchange at Thurla Station, where the engine prepares for its return journey.
Services depart Karadoc station every half hour from 10am until 3.30pm, with tickets available at the platform from 10.30am.
To get there, follow the Calder Highway about one kilometre south of Red Cliffs township.
The regular sausage sizzle and souvenir sale will not be running, but it is hoped this will return later in the year.
The railway runs on the first Sunday of each month and selected public holidays.
