The NSW Government is investing $3.5 million into the restoration and reopening of the historic Zig Zag railway near Lithgow.
Devastating bushfires in October 2013 forced the closure of the Zig Zag Railway while the Gospers Mountain Fire in December 2019 caused further damage and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic along with recent heavy rainfall put plans to reopen back further.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has visited the historic tourist attraction at Clarence to inspect upgrades being undertaken to get the once popular tourist attraction up and running again.
“In the past the Zig Zag Railway used to attract around 60,000 visitors each year, so when we see it return to that level of visitation it will provide a huge economic boost to the local area.”
So far, seven passenger carriages have been restored and the 218 steam locomotive is back functioning just like it did in its glory days. The tracks have been cleared and stations are being upgraded.
The Zig Zag Co-Op is currently training its new and returning volunteers in preparation for a planned reopening later this year.
Chairman of the Zig Zag Railway Ben Lawrence said the dedication of the team of volunteers is what makes the Zig Zag so special.
“Volunteers have given up weekends and weeks of their personal time to rebuild this railway after numerous devastating events. Everything is finally coming together, and you can feel the excitement building as we near closer to reopening,” Mr Lawrence said.
