A HERITAGE rail themed food truck and track repair work has been funded for two of the city’s rail heritage groups.
Local groups Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland and Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway were two of eight rail heritage groups sharing in $160,000 from the State Government to help fund heritage projects and operations.
The community grants celebrate 160 years of rail in Queensland by supporting not-for-profit rail heritage organisations.
Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland will purchase a heritage-themed food truck to cater for tourists at historic Grandchester station.
Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway will be able to undertake important track repairs and invest in community partnerships to support maintenance.
State Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Government was pleased to support the work of the not-for-profit heritage groups.
“From north Queensland to the southern border, rail heritage groups play a vital role in keeping the passion for rail alive in our communities,” Mr Mickelberg said.
Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland President Steve Lamprecht said the food truck would bring back some of the original rail travel experience for tourists and the community.
“In Victorian times, Grandchester station hosted picnics for early settlers, and by establishing a food and coffee service this grant will help us recreate some of that history,” Mr Lamprecht said.
Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway chairman Robert Shearer said the track upgrades were essential to improve operational safety and reliability.
“The grant will also support our training program for the next generation of rail safety workers and track work apprentices, ensuring we keep giving back to our local community,” Mr Shearer said. “QPSR continues to build on our 48-year history of sharing important rail stories and lessons with the community and travellers to Ipswich.”
Queensland Rail acting CEO Neil Backer said the one-off grants were the perfect gift from Queensland Rail as it celebrates its 160th birthday.
“With 160 years of rail in Queensland there’s no better feeling than being able to give back to the communities who are helping us preserve that history,” Mr Backer said.
