UPPER FERNTREE GULLY TO GEMBROOK

Australian Heritage Commission proposed statement of significance

'The Puffing Billy Railway is a national tourist attraction and provides important recreational and educational functions within the State of Victoria. The historically significant role of the line in the development of this part of the Dandenong Ranges is recognised. Many of the structures, works and rolling stock associated with the line are themselves of high historical significance. A journey along this line also presents the surrounding landscape to the viewer in a sequence which adds to the quality of the visual experience.'

Cardinia Shire Heritage Study statement of significance `The Upper Ferntree Gully to Gembrook Railway is of importance to the State and Cardinia Shire because it provides evidence of the development of key transport networks across the district and the State. The linking of the railway to Gembrook in 1900 opened up access to new markets for timber and orchard industries which grew to State-wide prominence, as well as promoting tourist traffic particularly to Emerald. More recently the publicity given to the opening and running of the `Puffing Billy' service has gained national prominence.

This place is also valuable for its comparative age among other transport projects in the shire; potential to interpret the site historically (physical integrity and documentary evidence via railways plans); landmark qualities for both Victorians and local residents; and rarity as a type (functioning narrow gauge railway line) and a reflection of past now discontinued activities which sought the construction of steam railways on cheaper narrow gauge lines in many rural areas around 1900.'

Group

Transport - Rail

Category

Railway