Celebrations for train’s birthday

Seventy years of history will be celebrated at the South West Rail and Heritage Centre on Sunday in recognition of the Australind train going platinum.

The event acknowledging the train’s 70 years of service will run from 10am to 2pm to reignite old memories and inform young minds.

Boyanup Foundation president Norm Chapple said the event would provide plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

“Three displays will be set up, one with people’s stories and memories of the Australind, one with photos of the old and new train and the third will have photos and details about station masters of all the stations coming down the line,” he said.

“We will also have a new book documenting the history of the Australind coming down on weekend, which is still at the printers now.”

A sure hit will be the model Australind train which will speed around the track, which was created at a 1:160 ratio.

The event will be complemented by an art competition with entries from schools along the route and a photographic competition for seniors depicting the towns and countryside along the Australind train’s route.

On the half hour, visitors will be taken into the shed for a guided tour of the Australind’s buffet car, while an Australind train driver will be there in the morning.

Entry is by donation.

For more information call 0459 712 552.