For those who have an interest in the past Victorian Railways (VR), the current O’Keefe Rail Trail is, for the most part, built upon the former Wallan, Heathcote, Sandhurst Railway’s alignment section between Heathcote and Bendigo.
Rather than being a branch line, of which there were many, this railway was one of only a very few Victorian cross-country lines. This cross-country line was a transport link between the North East Line and the Murray River Line.
The Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail group have, over the past 14 years, attempted to reinstall elements of former railway infrastructure once removed when that railway was dismantled and recovered.
Previously in the Junortoun area there was the Rangelea Siding, connecting the railway’s main line to the Department of Defence’s ammunition storage facility and proving range established in 1942.
Having searched for and obtained a heritage points lever, the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail group set about refurbishing this item. Member Ken Hanson undertook the final works required to install this lever on the original points lever concrete base, which dates back to 1942. The original siding was open to traffic in January 1943.
While adding another point of interest to the popular O’Keefe Rail Trail, this lever helps connect trail users back to past facilities associated with the second world war.
Trail users are encouraged to support the efforts of this active volunteer community group by being involved. It’s easy. Just contact us and become a member https://bendigokilmorerailtrail.com/contact-us/