THE official opening of the new model railway at Werris Creek’s Rail Journeys Museum is an amazing addition to the superb exhibitions already in place at one of Australia’s finest rail heritage precincts, according to Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC) mayor Andrew Hope.
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Speaking at the official opening on Tuesday, Cr Hope said the new display is much more than just a model railway – it is a faithful representation of NSW Government Railways (NSWGR) infrastructure, locomotives and rollingstock, which greatly enhances the experience of visiting the Rail Journeys Museum.
Lu Yang, Chief Financial Officer of Shenhua Watermark Coal officially opened the display.
It was financed through the Shenhua Watermark Community Fund which provided $97,960 to the Rail Journeys Museum to assist with several projects that have greatly enhanced the experience for visitors to the complex.
“The model railway is a great new addition that will help attract further school groups plus tourists from all over Australia and around the world. The Museum’s popularity can be gauged through the fact that in excess of 135,000 visitors, have passed through its doors since it first opened,” Cr Hope said.
Mr Lu Yang added the aim of the Shenhua Community Funding has been to improve visitor satisfaction by expanding the experience at the Museum through interactive displays that embrace modern technology. He said it would attract an even greater range of visitors to the town and further preserve its railway history.
Cr Hope also paid tribute to Matthew Wilcox who did the design planning and technical works, as well as Luke Jenkins who did the fabrication for the layout.
“Importantly, we must never forget the massive contribution of the 40+ volunteers who keep the museum operating between 10am and 4pm, 363 days per year, a remarkable achievement and one they can be very proud of,” he continued.
President of the Australian Railway Monument Inc (ARM), trading as the Rail Journeys Museum, Chris Holley, also thanked Mr Lu and the Shenhua Community Fund for the investment they have made in the Museum which has facilitated the expansion of exhibits.
“The Museum has also had a productive relationship with LPSC over a period of 12 years, under a Memorandum of Understanding, which has greatly assisted in building the high profile we enjoy today,” Mr Holley said.
