More locals and visitors across the Bellarine are set to enjoy the iconic Bellarine Railway for years to come, with works now complete, made possible by the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant today officially announced the completion of works along the 16.5 kilometres of line between Queenscliff and Drysdale, supported through a $3.4 million investment from the Labor Government.

Established more than 140 years go, the railway has a strong history operating as an important defence line ferrying military traffic from South Geelong to Fort Queenscliff and Swan Island. The heritage train passes through vibrant scenery and was reborn as a tourist attraction in 1979 run by the Geelong Steam Preservation Society.

The railway also hosts the popular Q Train – offering an award-winning dining experience and the Blues Train featuring live music and dining.

The replacement of sleepers and rails along the line have boosted ride quality and safety for passengers to enjoy the iconic line well into the future.

The project is part of the Government’s investment of more than $41 billion in rural and regional Victoria since 2015, transforming and boosting local economics and jobs growth.

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“The Society and its volunteers do an incredible job running this railway, and it’s fantastic to give them the support they need so this rail experience can continue to attract visitors to the region.”