The Heathcote railway line was a cross-country link between Bendigo and Heathcote Junction. It was partly opened in 1888 and, by 1890, it was fully operational.[1] It was partially closed in 1958 and fully closed in 1968.
In 1975, it was decided to dismantle the track and, today, only some trestle bridges remain.[2]
History edit
The line was authorised by the Victorian Parliament in 1881, and construction began in 1888.[citation needed] The first section, between Heathcote and Bendigo opened in October 1888, and the entire line became operational in August 1890.[3] Including 50 bridges, the line took 21 months to complete, at a cost of 88,409 pounds, with two derailments during the process.[4]
Stations edit
The line had the following stations:[1]
- Kilmore Junction - now Heathcote Junction
- Leslie
- Bylands
- Kilmore
- Willowmavin
- Moranding
- High Camp
- Pyalong
- Tooborac
- McIvor siding
- Argyle
- Heathcote
- Derrinal
- Knowsley
- Axedale
- Longlea (previously Axe Creek)
- Strathfieldsaye (closed 1911)[5]
- Bendigo
Today edit
The original line may have been ripped up, but there are few instances where the original track still remains.
References edit
- ^ a b Wallan - Bendigo Victorian Railways Grades Book
- ^ Bendigo - Kilmore Friends of the Bendigo - Kilmore rail trail
- ^ Harrigan, Leo J. (1962). Victorian Railways to ‘62. Melbourne: Victorian Railways Public Relations and Betterment Board. p. 283.
- ^ O'Keefe Rail Trail Heathcote stories
- ^ "Strathfieldsaye Detail". VK3CKC. Retrieved 16 April 2023.