Two Rockhampton landmarks have reached a major milestone with the Alexandria Railway Bridge and Archer Park railway station turning 125 years old.
Queensland Rail Historian Greg Hallam said the landmarks were vital pieces of rail infrastructure which continued to serve the community to this day.
“125 years ago, on 6 November 1899, the Alexandria Railway Bridge officially opened, providing a vital link between two halves of Rockhampton along the North Coast rail line,” he said.
“A month later, on 11 December 1899, Archer Park railway station was also opened to the public. Plans for both the historical pieces of infrastructure were first produced in 1898 by architect Henrik Hansen.
“Hansen had joined Queensland Rail in 1877 and was responsible for the design of many utilitarian buildings and structures.
Hansen was also responsible for the design of the railway station at Mount Morgan in 1898, and the refreshment rooms at Emerald Railway Station in 1900 which share similar features including an all-over arch roof or carriage shade, designed to provide cover to passengers and goods being loaded at the platform.
“Archer Park railway station serviced passenger services until 1970. From 1970 until 1990, Archer Park operated as a road freight depot,” Hallam said.
“On 1 May 1990 Queensland Railways handed over the Archer Park railway station to the Rockhampton City Council and in 1999 the Archer Park Rail Museum opened.
“Meanwhile, the Alexandria Railway Bridge continues to connect North Coast line services across the Fitzroy River to this day.”
Queensland Rail is supporting Rockhampton Regional Council, which now owns Archer Park Rail Museum, to mark its anniversary.
There will be a Family Fun Day on 17 November from 10am-1pm and past staff members, family members of those who worked at the station, museum volunteers, and members of the public are invited.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said the event would be a great opportunity for the community to share in the region’s rich rail history.
“From the innovative rack rail that conquered the Mount Morgan Razorback to the bustling freight corridors that connected us to the wider world, our region’s railways have played a vital role in shaping our community,” Mayor Williams said.
“Whether you’re a rail buff, history enthusiast, or looking for a fun day out for the kids – we would love to encourage everyone to head to the Archer Park Rail Museum and join together in celebrating our impressive rail heritage.”
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