The popular Bulla Hill Miniature Railway, operated entirely by dedicated volunteers, has once again been targeted by vandals, leaving the community-run organisation facing unexpected repairs.
The damage occurred sometime between Saturday 3 May and Tuesday 6 May when volunteers discovered damaged signage, uprooted timber rails, and areas requiring re-cementing.
While the estimated repair cost of $200 to $300 may seem modest, the organisation’s Kris Siderove says the real burden falls on volunteers who must now divert their limited time and resources away from regular upkeep of the track and locomotives.
“We didn’t report it to the police,” said Mr Siderov. “There is very little that they can do about it.
“The cost will be about eight bags of cement, replacement of timber rails and either repairing or replacing the signage. It will probably take about eight-man hours spread over a number of days with the cost of repairs around two to three hundred dollars.
“It is disappointing to members because we have to spend time on these repairs rather than maintenance and upkeep of the facilities. It also means that limited funds have to be diverted away from regular maintenance.
“We volunteer our time and expertise to make the railway a pleasant and safe place for the local community to visit.”
Run by the Tullamarine Live Steam Society, the Bulla Hill Miniature Railway is a much-loved attraction, drawing families from across the region to enjoy rides through scenic parklands dotted with dinosaur statues.
All work is done by volunteers – many of whom bring specialist skills to maintain the locomotives and infrastructure.
The railway is open to the public on the third Sunday of each month. The next running day is Sunday 18 May, 11am to 4pm. Entry is free, and train rides cost just $5.
