Back on track
THE members of the South Gippsland Tourist Railway remain dedicated to sharing their passion for the region’s rail heritage, despite fellow volunteers being assaulted in February.
Up to 50 passengers have been boarding trains showcasing the line from Leongatha to Nyora since the horrific attack on three members on February 28.
Richard Davies of Korumburra was most seriously injured. His daughter Sarah said her father had been recovering well.
“Everything seems to be healing well. There will still be quite a way to go and many appointments to attend in Melbourne, but everyday is a new day and he is still with us,” she said.
An appeal for funds to help with Mr Davies’ recovery has so far raised $2865.
“It was a great effort and we are so grateful for everyone’s contribution. No words can describe how grateful we all are,” Ms Davies said.
Railway president Terry Franklin said while members remain shaken by the assaults, they are determined to ensure the railway continues to service the region.
“We have banded together and the experience has made us a lot stronger in our little group,” Mr Franklin said.
“It’s been extremely difficult times for a lot of people. We have said we are going to try hard and not let it stop us.”
Mr Franklin said the railway allows travellers to see the region from another perspective – a thought shared by line supervisor Step O’Rafferty.
“On the train, you can have a really good look at the countryside without having to worry about speeding or someone tooting you in the car,” he said.
“You are immersed in living history rather than looking at something static.”
The railway volunteers have resumed normal operating hours, with trains running between Korumburra and Leongatha on Wednesdays during the school holidays, in addition to the regular service on the second Sunday of the month.
Trains of between 20-50 passengers have been passing through the countryside recently.
More volunteers are welcome and can be trained in a range of areas, from driving a train to helping with repairs, operating signals and track work.
“We are not only old fellas that come from Melbourne. We are just enthusiastic people that try to keep the place alive,” Mr Franklin said.
“The place is 100 years old.”
Two Korumburra men remain before the courts in relation to the assaults.
All aboard: South Gippsland Tourist Railway volunteers, driver Ken Renshaw and line supervisor Step O’Rafferty, with passengers at Korumburra Railway Station last Wednesday, from left, Zoe and Zac Drake-Brock of Tarneit, Liam van Derventer of Box Hill and Ethan Brooker of Nyora.
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Posted by Tayla Kershaw on Apr 8 2015. Filed under Featured, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry
