THE Derwent Valley Railway is set to roll again with the lease on the line due to be signed next month.

It’s been a long time coming for the heritage rail, which was excluded from the state rail system in 2006.

The heritage rail operator will sign a lease to use the first section of line on December 17.

The lease will enable volunteers to work on refurbishing the first section from Third Ave and Back River Rd, in New Norfolk, and allow it to be connected to the DVR yard and workshop.

While doing this work the rest of the line to National Park will be surveyed, so the lease for the next stage to Plenty can proceed.

Trains will then run and link up with the Salmon Ponds and Plenty Cider. Work will continue with stage three to National Park, the oldest national park in Tasmania.

The train will cater for many other activities, be able to transport canoes, bikes for the more adventurous and camping equipment for those wishing to stay longer.

“This trip up the Derwent Valley and on into the Tyenna Valley is full of many magical moments, from open farm land to hop fields, and ending in natural forest,’’ a DVR spokesperson said.
“There are three main bridges crossing the Derwent River giving unforgettable views up and down the river, this along with the colour of the trees in autumn will install life-long memories.

All this wouldn’t be happening without the dedicated volunteers who have work tirelessly for the last 15 years to see this project to fruition.

“With work now ramping up the society is asking for help with either joining as a member and or volunteering your services and help speed up the building process.
“It is not necessary to have a skill, in most cases these can be taught with training. In saying that, if you are a skilled person we’re looking for welders, fitters, machinists, electricians, motor mechanics, carpenters or any other trade.’’

If you would like more information or are prepared to help please contact DVR.

“We are at the station every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am till 4pm which is located in Station St, New Norfolk.
“Look us up on Facebook (Derwent Valley Railway) or simply Google Derwent Valley Railway and find more information about the society.’’