| Project type |
Tourism and economic development |
| Completion date |
Ongoing |
| Cost estimate |
To be determined |
Outcome
World-class heritage railway experiences that significantly contribute to the State and Peel Region’s tourism sector and broader economy.
Overview
Murray’s locality, rich heritage and natural charm offer an advantage that present unique tourism prospects. The area is home to one of the oldest train stations in Western Australia, making Murray the perfect setting for nostalgic railway heritage experiences.
An extensive engagement process involving the Shire of Murray, Hotham Valley Railway, Alcoa Australia, Arc Infrastructure, Public Transport Authority, Main Roads WA, the local community, together with funding support from Tourism WA and the Peel Development Commission enabled development of a shared vision to maximise railway heritage opportunities in Murray.
From this vision, the Murray Heritage Railway Project was established. The project will revitalise existing landmark sites and heritage assets within Murray to stimulate visitation, create jobs and attract significant new investment.
The project comprises two major components – the Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct and Pinjarra to Dwellingup Rail Link. Together, components will deliver the redevelopment of the historic railway station into a precinct with attractions for tourists and community amenities, and the re-establishment of journeys between Pinjarra and Dwellingup on the Hotham Valley Tourism Railway.
Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct
A key historic site, Pinjarra Railway Station is the perfect location for an exciting revitalisation. Once the epi-centre of the historic town of Pinjarra, the station played an important role in early settlement of the State.
Through the Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct Master Plan, the Pinjarra Railway Station will be revived as a thriving regional culture, arts and heritage destination.
Inclusive of a heritage railway museum, visitor centre and café, event spaces, destination play space, community facilities the precinct will celebrate and pay respect to the past whilst enabling contemporary activities, legacies and stories to be created.
New life will be breathed in to heritage railway barracks and carriages when they are lovingly converted into short-stay accommodation.
Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct Masterplan
Pinjarra Heritage Railway Report
Pinjarra to Dwellingup Rail Link
Reconnecting the former Pinjarra to Dwellingup Heritage Rail Link will allow Pinjarra reach it’s potential as a must-see regional destination, and will connect Australia’s 2023 Top Tiny Tourism Town with WA’s capital city, Perth.
The vision is to enable product offerings that rival the likes of the Puffing Billy in Victoria.
On-board steam and diesel locomotives, visitors will meander ancient forests as they take in the stunning views of the Darling Scarp and world’s only naturally occurring Jarrah forest. Added to the experience will be premium food and beverage offerings ranging from fine-dining to premium picnic hampers. Guided tours will provide further opportunities for explorers to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty and rich history.
Project benefits
- Australia’s 2023 Top Tiny Tourism Town with WA’s capital city, Perth
- Tourism offerings in WA that rival Victoria’s Puffing Billy
- Rail network efficiency enabling direct rail connection between the Perth and Bunbury metro areas via the Australind through to Australia’s Top Tiny Tourism Town