20/10/2023
Have you been on Puffing Billy?
It's a silver jubilee celebration here at Puffing Billy Railway! 🥳 Today marks 25 years since the Lakeside to Gembrook line reopened in 1998! 🚂
The story of the Lakeside to Gembrook line is a journey through time 🕰️ Back in December 1900, the Upper Ferntree Gully to Gembrook line was officially opened. However, in 1953, services ceased due to a series of landslides. It was certainly a dark hour for the railway at the time 😔
In 1955, a ray of hope emerged as the Puffing Billy Preservation Society was born, dedicated to saving the railway from permanent closure. By 1962, they had already steamed the line back to life between Belgrave and Menzies Creek, and more sections followed.
Yet, the grand task of reconstructing the Lakeside to Gembrook section didn't commence until February 1991. A massive undertaking unfolded, involving the reconstruction of four bridges, four stations, and 11 kilometres of railway. Most of this Herculean effort was made possible by the many dedicated Puffing Billy Preservation Society volunteers, with a helping hand from the Army Reserves.
The grand finale came on Sunday, October 18, 1998, as the line officially reopened, with locomotive 14A leading the very first train to travel the route 🎂
Marking two decades of cherished journeys on this historic route is a testament to the dedication, passion, and unity of Puffing Billy Railway's volunteers. Thank you for being part of this incredible ride! 🛤️💙
📸 credit: Michael Greenhill
Visual description: Image of a black steam engine and red carriages that form the train, as it travels around the bend of the railway track, surrounded by dense forest and lush fern trees. Passengers on board the train are dangling their legs from the open air carriage sill.
