One of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most loved tourist attractions is on track to keep entertaining families this summer, thanks to upgrades supported by the Allan Labor Government. 

Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney and Member for Bellarine Allison Marchant MP today visited the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway to announce the completion of maintenance works on the Railway’s buildings.

The Labor Government provided $21,000 through the Tiny Towns Fund to repaint and repair the exterior of the Railway’s station and signal box, which have been weathered and time-worn due to their coastal location.

The Tiny Towns grant meant volunteers who operate the Railway could contract the works to local tradespeople, so they could focus on providing affordable family entertainment for locals and drawing in visitors. 

Established in 1999, the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway is Geelong’s only 7.25 and 5 inch miniature railway and Australia’s only railway located on a foreshore. 

Located on eight hectares of native parklands and directly next to the beaches of Portarlington overlooking Port Phillip Bay, the Railway operates on the first and third Sunday of every month and more frequently during school and summer holidays.

For 25 years it has been operated by volunteers, with this year marking the ninth anniversary of the current volunteer group’s operations.

The $20 million Tiny Towns Fund backs community-driven projects that enhance our smallest towns, strengthen community connections, and encourage more visitors to all corners of Victoria. 

Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested a record $45 billion in projects and programs designed to support regional and rural Victorian cities and towns to be even better places to live, work, stay and play. 

For more information go to rdv.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney

“It’s great to see such a passionate group of volunteers so dedicated to showcasing the natural beauty of this special part of the Bellarine Peninsula and providing an experience that locals and tourists can enjoy.”

“These upgrades will support the hardworking volunteers who drive, operate, maintain, and care for the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway to keep it running well into the future.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine, Allison Marchant MP 

“Places like the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway are so important to our community, and it’s great to see it get a new lease of life.”

“This investment means families, locals and visitors will continue to be able to have a fun day out, making the most of our beautiful corner of Victoria.”