More visitors to the Fleurieu region will be able to take a scenic ride on the SteamRanger Heritage Railway Track following an infrastructure upgrade to improve the service’s safety and reliability.
Senator for South Australia Anne Ruston, who rode the train today to celebrate the upgrade’s official opening, said the replacement of sleepers supporting the track and repairing the railway turntables would increase the longevity of the heritage railway.
“These train trips are a great way to see and enjoy the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, so any upgrade to promote their safe operation is a boost to the region’s tourist economy,” Senator Ruston said.
“The heritage train attracts more than 30,000 visitors and train enthusiasts each year and I expect a range of new employment and economic opportunities to be created by this upgrade.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s $200,000 investment had delivered a much-needed improvement to one of the region’s iconic attractions.
“These trains take visitors across some of South Australia’s most beautiful coastal tourist destinations, so this is an investment in those communities’ long-term economic future,” Mr McCormack said.
“Supporting two full-time jobs during construction and securing the viability of local economies in the Fleurieu Peninsula is precisely the kind of outcome Liberal and Nationals Government grants aim to achieve.”
The Liberal National Government fully funded the $200,000 project.
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