There’s a new locomotive on the block at the Warwick Railway Precinct thanks to funding Southern Downs Steam Railway Association received from the Southern Downs Regional Council.
A council spokeswoman said the Southern Downs Steam Railway Association received $50,000 from SDRC in the 2019/2020 Budget.
“This grant was provided by SDRC to boost tourism and attract visitors to the region,” the spokeswoman said.
“Fittingly named ‘Spirit of the Southern Downs’, the new diesel locomotive is a welcome addition to the fleet and will bolster the timetable of train tours on the region’s popular tourist railway.”
Mayor Tracy Dobie said the heritage railway tours on the Southern Downs and Granite Belt are a “unique experience and showcase the region’s rich culture and history”.
“The heritage railway tours have long been enjoyed by young and old alike,” Cr Dobie said.
“Council believes in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt as a tourist destination and wants to support and invest in the growth of the industry.
“The heritage railway is a great way to motor through the region and discover our picturesque countryside and sample award winning Granite Belt wines and fresh local produce.
“There’s already so much see and do in our region, and the addition of the new locomotive and rail tours at the Warwick Railway Precinct gives tourists yet another reason to visit the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.”
The Southern Downs Steam Railway offers regular tours from Warwick to Wallangarra, Clifton, Wheatvale, Hendon, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, Tenterfield and Stanthorpe. For details visit – www.sdsr.org.au
