The Don River Railway is a heritage railway and museum located in Don, a suburb of Devonport, Tasmania. It operates on a reconstructed section of the former Melrose line, which originally ran between Don Junction and Paloona. The railway was first opened for commercial use on 10 April 1916, serving both passengers and freight, including limestone from BHP’s facilities at Melrose. However, declining industrial use led to its closure on 16 October 1963.
In response to the railway’s closure, the Van Diemen Light Railway Society was formed in December 1971 with the aim of preserving Tasmania’s rail heritage. By 1973, the society began restoring the line and rolling stock, and in 1976, heritage operations commenced under the name Don River Railway. The museum quickly became a cornerstone of regional heritage tourism, showcasing steam and diesel locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia from the 19th and 20th centuries.
The railway originally offered services extending to Burnie and Devonport’s main station, but these were later curtailed to a 3.1 km route between Don and Coles Beach. This scenic journey through the Don Reserve became a popular attraction, especially for families and railway enthusiasts. The museum also hosted themed events, such as Halloween rides and anniversary celebrations, further embedding itself in the local cultural landscape.
Despite its success, the railway has faced challenges. On 4 April 2023, a fire destroyed a carriage shed and several historic carriages, prompting restoration efforts and renewed community support. The museum continues to operate trains from Thursday to Sunday, using a mix of steam and diesel locomotives, including Fowler No. 5268 and the reactivated CCS25, which awaits approval for revenue service.
Today, the Don River Railway stands as a testament to Tasmania’s rail history and the dedication of its volunteers. It offers not only a nostalgic ride but also an immersive educational experience, preserving the spirit of early Tasmanian rail travel for future generations.
Sources:
This historical summary was generated using AI.
