Article: Beloved steam train Puffing Billy old, but full of puff

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Beloved steam train Puffing Billy old, but full of puff

Beloved steam train Puffing Billy old, but full of puff
Article from: Herald Sun

Ian Royall

December 18, 2008 12:00am

PUFFING Billy, Melbourne's much-loved steam train, has been heritage-listed.

The state's Heritage Council has added the train to the register in recognition of its historical and social significance.

Emerald Tourist Railway Board chairman Peter Hiscock said the heritage listing was wonderful news for the 500 volunteers and 55 staff who kept Puffing Billy running every day.

The train boasted universal appeal and the service attracted record numbers in the 12 months to June 30.

"It's the quaintness of the train itself that appeals," Mr Hiscock said.

"And then it's the country it travels though - from paddocks to the forests of the Dandenongs.

"And you do things on Puffing Billy that you can't on other trains, like hang your legs over the side and walk around. It's quite unique."

Heritage Victoria executive director Ray Tonkin said the Puffing Billy Railway had been popular with Victorians and tourists since World War I.

"Today that tradition continues, allowing visitors to experience an otherwise forgotten era in train travel," Mr Tonkin said.

The collection of three locomotives, six carriages and other vehicles was built between 1898 and 1926.

Almost 270,000 people ride the railway every year, on the 24.5km journey from Belgrave to Gembrook.

It runs on what were experimental narrow gauge lines used to service rural areas.

NA 12A rests at Gembrook.

Photograph R Dow 2002.