Passengers on Victoria’s iconic Puffing Billy steam train can now dangle their legs for the full length of the railway journey for the first time since 2018.
The century-old tradition of sitting on the carriage sills was banned about six years ago, after a minibus failed to stop for an activated level crossing outside Menzies Creek and collided with the heritage train.
Nobody on board the train was injured, but one of the 16 people on the minibus was taken to hospital.
After an investigation and modifications to the carriage sills, the leg-dangling ban was lifted for part of the train journey — from Belgrave to Lakeside station — in 2022.
On Sunday, the state government announced visitors would now be able to dangle their feet outside the carriages all the way through the forest to Gembrook.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, said the return to the original rules was made possible by a $1.4 million upgrade to both the Gembrook Historic Station and Menzies Creek Station.
“Puffing Billy has been one of the most beloved experiences for Victorians and international visitors for more than 100 years, and now visitors can enjoy the excitement of sitting on the sills for the full length of the journey,” he said.
The railway, located in the Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne, was built in the early 1900s.
With a distinctive whistle that travels throughout the hills, the train winds its way through towering forest, around bends and over timber trestle bridges, while children onboard wave at passers-by.
More than 400,000 people climb aboard the heritage train each year.
Puffing Billy Railway Board chair Tim North said he was thrilled to announce the return of leg-dangling all the way to Gembrook station.
“This beloved tradition is back, allowing our passengers to experience the full charm of the Puffing Billy journey.”
ABC News