$20 Million Plan to conserve NSW Rail Heritage as collaboration urged over 3801

Mr Watkins released details of the plan – including a new Office of Rail Heritage and funding for the much loved 3801 locomotive – at Central Station’s centenary ceremony today.

“The Iemma Government is committed to conserving the State’s rich rail heritage for our children, grandchildren and all future generations to enjoy,” Mr Watkins said.

“That’s we’re investing $20 million over five years in a Sustainable Rail Heritage Strategy that sets a new standard for industrial conservation in NSW.

“The plan will be delivered by a new Office of Rail Heritage that will oversee the conservation and display of our rail heritage assets and ensure that our broad and passionate groups of volunteers are recognised, valued and supported.

“It will work closely with the many and varied custodians of rail history across the state, including renowned precincts such as Tenterfield, Glenreagh and Werris Creek.

“Together we will ensure that rail heritage items across NSW are cared for properly, managed well and are displayed and run to their best advantage.”

Mr Watkins said the first $500,000 would be spent to upgrade the 3801 locomotive at the Hunter Valley Training Company at Maitland.

“We want to ensure this beloved icon of the steam age continues to operate for another generation,” Mr Watkins said.

“The Government and RailCorp will provide this overhaul to keep the 3801 locomotive in first-class operating condition.

“At the same time, I can today announce the formation of a panel of independent experts to determine how the 3801 should be best managed in future – and by whom.”

The panel will comprise former Queensland Rail CEO Vince O’Rourke and representatives of Chairman of Tourism Australia Tim Fischer and CEO of the Australian Railway Association, Mr Bryan Nye.

“I’m urging the two groups involved in the debate over the 3801 locomotive to work with us, and to work together so that everyone can share the benefits of our heritage assets.”

Other features of the heritage plan include the restoration of Locomotive 3265 in partnership with the Powerhouse Museum and a new Rail Heritage Fellowship to pay for a worker or volunteer to learn new skills overseas.

The Sustainable Rail Heritage Management Strategy was developed with the advice of a committee comprising Mr O’Rourke, the Powerhouse Museum, the Rail Transport Museum, 3801 Pty Ltd, Rail Heritage Australia, NSW Heritage Office and RailCorp.

[Minister for Transport media Statement 4th August 2006]