ALMOST 40 years after its closure, one of Australia’s most distinctive and historically significant railway stations has been given new life as a heritage rail museum.
The 24km line from Oberon to Tarana transported freight and passengers to and from Oberon for 56 years following its opening in 1923.
The line was suspended in 1979 as road transport had gradually overtaken freight movements, but now the Oberon Station precinct has been reopened as a working tourist museum.
The brainchild of Oberon Tarana Heritage Railway, the station has been restored to represent its active period of use, with the rolling stock shed featuring a range of historically significant locomotives.
Trains on display include two 73 class locomotives similar to trains that frequented the line in the 1960s and ‘70s, historic 1897 end carriages and a number of track maintenance vehicles.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy a high tea on the platform.
The station opens on the first Saturday of each month for individual visitors and groups.
Children aged under 18 are admitted for free, while the cost of entry for adults is $5, with tea and damper available for an additional charge.
Bookings can be made by calling (02) 6336-0441 or emailing admin@othr.com.au.
For more information, visit othr.com.au
If you go
OBERON is in the central tablelands about 193km west of Sydney, 49km south of Bathurst and 140km north of Goulburn. The Blue Mountains town often receives snowfall in the winter. Fishing enthusiasts may want to consider a trip to Lake Oberon or The Reef Reserve, popular fishing spots which also feature picnic facilities. The town also has a golf club located off Hume Street.
Oberon provides an opportunity to explore nearby attractions including Jenolan Caves, one of the world’s most spectacular limestone cave formations; and Mayfield Garden, one of the world’s largest privately owned cool climate gardens. Nearby Bathurst is home to historic buildings, several museums and the Mt Panorama circuit, home of the Bathurst 1000 motor race.