Queensland Rail is set to restore a rail siding at Ballandean, paving the way for the return of heritage train services between Stanthorpe and Ballandean.
This upgrade will allow picturesque tourist trains to once again operate in the region, providing a much-needed boost to heritage rail groups and local tourism.
Ballandean has been a popular tourist destination with its wineries and scenic landscapes but tourist trains were halted after last year’s bushfires.
The reopening of the Ballandean siding will enable heritage trains to resume operating along a portion of the Warwick to Wallangarra line, providing a turnaround point for the trains.
This will allow tourists and train enthusiasts to enjoy the journey through the Granite Belt, which features high-country scenery, including rugged boulders, ravines, creeks, and historic timber and steel bridges.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton thanks Queensland Rail for its commitment to preserving the region’s rail heritage and acknowledges the positive impact this project will have on the region.
“Council and the local communities are incredibly thankful to Queensland Rail for its commitment to restoring this important rail link,” Cr Hamilton said.
“The return of heritage train services is a significant boost for our wine and rail tourism and provides an exciting opportunity to reconnect visitors with the unique beauty and heritage of our region.”
Councillor Sheryl Windle highlighted the local benefits of the project and the essential role Southern Downs Steam Railway plays in regional tourism for the southern townships.
“The reopening of the Ballandean rail line is a significant boost for the affected townships that rely heavily on tourism,” Cr Windle said.
“Southern Downs Steam Railway is an incredible asset to our region and this project will further enhance their ability to offer unique and memorable experiences to visitors.
“By linking train journeys with Ballandean’s renowned wineries, we’re reopening avenues to showcase our region’s charm and boost local businesses.”
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting heritage rail operations and preserving historical rail assets for local communities.
“While the Wallangarra branch line isn’t used by Queensland Rail customers or freight partners, we know how important it is to the community, so it’s great to now have ‘Plan B for Ballandean’ in place to support these heritage groups,“ Ms Stapleton said.
“Having Ballandean as a destination once again will help with the viability of heritage rail groups into the future, and Queensland Rail is committed to supporting them.“
The restored siding, which has been closed to rail traffic since November 2003, will allow heritage rail operators to bus passengers from Ballandean to Wallangarra, a short 15-minute journey, where they can participate in tours and meals.
Although the section of the line from Ballandean to Wallangarra will remain closed for now, this partial reopening is expected to bolster tourism in the region.
Construction on the siding is set to begin in the coming months, with the project slated for completion by the end of the year.
Queensland Rail has also shown its support for the heritage rail sector through other initiatives. Recently, a heritage group was granted a long-term, “peppercorn“ lease for the historic Warwick station, helping to expand their operations.
