Walhalla Railway, VICTORIA
Airing Date: Oct 14th, 2002
Jump onboard the Walhalla Goldfields Railway at Thompson Station, just 90-minutes from Melbourne, then sit back and relax as the train chugs across the Thompson River and along Stringers Creek Gorge.
About 60 years ago the Walhalla railway was taken to pieces and almost forgotten but earlier this year a group of dedicated volunteers put the train back together.
The railway actually has the sharpest curves of any railway in Victoria so be prepared for a twisty ride. A one-hour return trip costs $12 for adults and $8 for kids.
Walhalla was once home to thousands of goldminers who uncovered the treasures that lay beneath the ground. Today, more than a century later, tourists can visit Walhalla and discover the treasures that the goldminers left behind. With a population of just 21, the pace of the town is very slow and easy. Dont miss the museum which is packed with memories from the big-spending gold-rush days.
The locals believe theres still gold in the streams and if you want to try your luck at recovering some hire a pan for $3. The general panning method involves careful tilting, a touch of swirling and, with a bit of luck, a golden reward.
The original miners dug for gold and more than 30 tonnes of it was retrieved from The Long Tunnel Extended Mine. The mine is on the old firewood track above town, and it's also a great place to get the best view of town.
One hundred and twenty years ago the miners dug up more than gold. With their picks and shovels they actually carved and created their very own cricket ground. When games were on, it was tradition for the locals to camp at the ground and for the visitors to camp a half-hour climb up the Hill talk about a home team advantage!
When night falls, head to the Star Hotels Parkers Restaurant for some top-notch food. Butter fish wrapped in filo is on the menu for $25, and the Star also offers accommodation.
Before you return to the modern world, one last thing to do in Walhalla is a ride in a horse drawn carriage. Its $5 per person or $15 for a family.
The facts:
Accommodation at Walhallas Star Hotel starts from $149 per double, per night including a continental breakfast.
Further information:
Tourism Victoria Info line
Tel: 13 28 42
Walhalla Goldfields Railway
Tel: 03 9513 3969
Walhalla museum and gift shop
Tel: 03 5165 6250
Walhallas Star Hotel
Tel: 03 5165 6262
Rawson Village Motel
Tel: 03 5165 3200
