Tasmanian Labor is backing an appeal for the Liberal Government to provide additional financial assistance to support Tasmania’s heritage railways.
Visiting one of the heritage operators today in New Norfolk, Ms White said the Derwent Valley Railway Preservation Society (DVR) has worked tirelessly over many years to return tourist passenger trains to the Derwent Valley.
“This project will provide much needed jobs and economic stimulus for the region. It will bring people to the area and link the wonderful tourist attractions the Derwent Valley has to offer,” Ms White said.
“I really hope the government can see its way clear to back the Derwent Valley Railway and other tourist and heritage rail operators who are struggling to meet certain cost imposts.
“Changes to public liability requirements mean it’s simply too expensive for them to absorb.
“DVR has come up with a solution that could help them get back on track – by joining forces with the Don River Railway, the Tasmanian Transport Museum and other members of the Tasmanian Association of Tourist Railways to propose a combined policy at considerably less cost.
“Heritage railway groups offer a hugely exciting and valuable tourism experience for the state, and we’re asking the government to get on board with this important proposal.”
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
