Advertisement

General News

16 January, 2026

Renewed fight for passenger rail

WITH the 150th anniversary of the railway to Stawell nearing, there are growing calls for passenger trains to return to the Wimmera. In late January 1876, the railway line from Ararat to Stawell was completed, a huge step for the district and our connection to the outside world. For 150 years, the rail line has continually operated, however passenger services were withdrawn in 1993 apart from the twice weekly Overland service between Melbourne and Adelaide. With the 150th anniversary fast approaching, there are growing calls for passenger services to finally return.

By Craig Wilson

Rail historian Brett Leslie is one of the growing number of local residents wanting to see passenger rail returned to Stawell and the Wimmera.
Rail historian Brett Leslie is one of the growing number of local residents wanting to see passenger rail returned to Stawell and the Wimmera.

Subscribe to West Vic News to read the full story.
Subscribe

Already have a subscription? Please login.
Login

You do not have access to this article. Please check your subscription status in the account area below.
Account
You are not subscribed this newspaper: or The Stawell Times News. You can update your subscription in the account area for no additional charge.
Account
Advertisement

Most Popular