Community
10 June, 2026
Council backs St Arnaud train revival push
NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has voted to support the movement to get a passenger train running back through St Arnaud.
NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has voted to support the movement to get a passenger train running back through St Arnaud.
At its last council meeting, a motion was passed saying council would support in principle the return of the Mildura-Maryborough passenger rail line as well as the opening of the St Arnaud Railway Station.
Cr Karen Probst, who attended the rail rally in St Arnaud on May 31, spoke in favour of the decision and described the transport needs of the sick and elderly being far better services by a passenger train. She also spoke of students being able to come back home from Melbourne.
Rail Revival Alliance president Noel Laidlaw said council had made a significant contribution to the campaign to reinstate passenger rail on the Mildura line.
“The support of local government is crucial in convincing the politicians of the widespread support that existed for the return of the service,” he said.
“The Vinelander train was never withdrawn because of a lack of patronage. But rather the political and economic situation that was taking place at the time lead to it’s cancellation.”
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