pagetop.gif - 8kb
<< Back | Home | Site Map

1990 - 1994 Passenger Services

Woomelang to Mildura

Milestones 1990 - 1994

1990

On 3-1-1990, passengers had boarded the fully booked out Down "Sunraysia" at Spencer Street station in readiness for departure of the train for Mildura. Unfortunately the air-conditioning in one of the economy class carriages was defective and as the forecast temperature for Mildura that day was 47 degrees, all the passengers in that carriage were transferred to air-conditioned road coaches.

V/Line Regional Manager, Mr. M. Caldwell, and V/Line Passenger Network Development Manager, Mr. D. Hardy, met with Mildura Stationmaster Mr. S. Hensgen on 23-1-1990 to discuss the future of Mildura train services, and took the opportunity to refute rumours that "The Vinelander" overnight service was again under threat.

Mr. K. Wright, M.L.C. for North Western Province, stated on 15-2-1990 that he had evidence that V/Line was planning to replace some Mildura line passenger services with buses. He had obtained from the office of the Minister for Transport the following average weekly passenger traffic figures for "The Sunraysia":

On 25-2-1990, Mr. Wright announced that his prediction that buses would replace some trains on the Mildura line had been confirmed by V/Line. A new timetable was to commence in June and existing night services would continue, although Mr. Wright remained pessimistic about the long-term prospects of Mildura passenger rail services.

A special Olympic Games design was applied to A66 to promote the bid by the Melbourne Olympic Committee in their bid for the 1996 Olympic Games. The color scheme was worn by A66 from February to September 1990. A66 arrived in Mildura on "The Vinelander" on the morning of 19-2-1990. Photo: Bruce McLean

On 27-2-1990 a V/Line spokesman announced that proposed changes to the Mildura day train services would involve day buses from Mildura connecting with trains at Bendigo. The choice of Bendigo surprised local government and political representatives, including Mr. K. Wright M.L.C. who anticipated that the natural and historical connection would be via Ballarat. The V/Line spokesman indicated that Ballarat was already well patronised and connecting day buses with Bendigo would assist to build up the viability of that line.

Mildura Town Clerk, Mr. D. Goss, expressed the concern that students and others from Ballarat would experience great difficulties with any change of arrangements.

Mildura Shire Council sought the restoration of night train services to six nights a week at their meeting on 14-3-1990.

The Minister for Transport, Mr. P. Spyker, announced on 7-5-1990 that the day train service " Sunraysia" would cease to operate and a night-only service would be provided by trains. Additional roach coach services would connect with InterCity trains at Bendigo. The changes were effective from 3-6-1990.

"The Vinelander" would be scheduled six nights a week, departing Melbourne on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, and departing from Mildura on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Road coaches with a 20% increase in passenger capacity were provided on a new daily service between Bendigo, Swan Hill and Mildura and an overnight coach service would operate between Melbourne and Mildura on Monday and Wednesday and from Mildura to Melbourne on Tuesday and Thursday.

The Victorian Public Transport User's Association condemned the closure of the daylight train service fearing it could be the first step to a total closure of the line. Association Secretary, Mr. P. Mees, on 29-5-1990, described the closure as "dumb and unimaginative". Mr. Mees said that instead of trying to capture a market, V/Line had simply surrendered it. He also said that rail travel, when run properly, is quicker, more comfortable and offers greater on board services than coach services.

The last daylight "Sunraysia" departed from Mildura on 30-5-1990 hauled by A62.

On board was railway enthusiast Peter Foote who described his journey from Mildura to Spencer Street on the last "Sunraysia" in an article published in the Australian Railway Historical Society (Victorian Division) "Newsrail" magazine, September 1990 issue. Peter and the publisher have kindly granted permission for the article to be reproduced:

Advertisement for new train and coach services introduced on 3-6-1990. This advertisement was run in district newspapers covered by the new services during June 1990. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

A public meeting was called at the Mildura Masonic Centre on 10-7-1990 to investigate the possibility of establishing a Sunraysia suburban train service linking Mildura with Redcliffs and possibly Ouyen. The meeting convenor, Mr. R. Tucker, envisaged a tourist train service from Mildura with a stop at Redcliffs, before travelling to Hattah and then returning to Mildura. A committee was formed at the meeting with Mr. Tucker as chairman, to look at ideas of having a tourist train running locally in conjunction with a steam train and riverboat package excursion. The meeting was attended by V/Line representatives, Mr. A. Stringer and Mr. S. Hensgen, Mildura Stationmaster.

The Mildura Tourist Development Association began an investigation into the introduction of a luxury "super-train" on the Melbourne to Mildura run following a suggestion from member, Mr. D. Carazza, in August 1990. The idea received an enthusiastic response, being described as "a concept that fits magnificently with the character of this area" and that it warranted detailed investigation.

The Melbourne-based Public Transport Users' Association claimed on 15-8-1990 that information had been received from reliable sources that "The Vinelander" was to be replaced by buses "within a week". The Ballarat-based V/Line Regional Manager, Mr. M. Caldwell, claimed it was "mischievous nonsense". M.L.A. for Mildura, Mr. C. Bildstien, said he was stunned at the report after having been given a recent assurance by the former Minister for Transport, Mr. J. Kennan, that "The Vinelander" would not be axed.

The Minister for Transport, Mr. P. Spyker, refused to confirm or deny the report on 16-8-1990. A spokesperson for his office indicated that "we will have to wait until the State Budget is announced on 28-8-1990".

Forget it! That was the blunt response from the Mildura Chamber of Commerce in a strongly worded protest letter sent to the Minister for Transport on 17-8-1990.

The Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party, Mr. A. Brown, said he would strenuously oppose cuts to country rail lines.

The Premier, Mrs. J. Kirner announced on 19-8-1990 that the government would not be and country rail services including "The Vinelander".

In September 1990, the Liberal Shadow Minister for Public Transport, Mr. R. Cooper, asked the State government to "come clean" about plans to hand over Victoria's non-metropolitan passenger and freight rail services to the Federal government. The government's severe budget problems led this suggestion to come to the fore after the South Australian government handed over its country rail assets to the Commonwealth in 1974.

Promotion advertisement for "The Vinelander" MotoRail service featured in Mildura's "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

"To Melbourne by Day or Overnight" promotion in Mildura's "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper during November and December 1990. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

There were no V/Line train services on Christmas Day, 1990.

1991

Mildura Transit Police announced on 29-1-1991 that four uniformed policemen would be travelling on "The Vinelander" each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night during the period of the Sunraysia grape harvest. A sergeant and three uniformed men would travel from Melbourne to Mildura each Thursday night, on Friday night they would travel from Mildura to St. Arnaud, change trains, and travel from St. Arnaud to Mildura. On Sunday night they would travel from Mildura to Melbourne. Senior Detective G. McHugh of Mildura Transit Police advised that they had cleaned up the train service between Melbourne and Mildura and would not tolerate any unruly behaviour and would put offenders off the train.

An editorial in the "Independent Star" newspaper claimed "The Vinelander" would soon be "extinct" as the costs for travel were uncompetitive with the regional airline fares and the service is based on what the administration needs, not what the travelling public needs. The editorial was prompted by a 10% increase in rail fares from 10-3-1991.

Mr. C. Bildstien, Member for Mildura, approached the Minister for Transport following concerns that "The Vinelander" was again under review based on claims made by the Public Transport Users' Association. The Minister informed Mr. Bildstien on 18-3-1991, that the service was not under review.

V/Line advertisement promoting "The Vinelander" sleeping berths in "Sunraysia Daily". 15-5-1991. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Mr. S. Pickering, a nominee for North Western Province pre-selection, and a former member of the State Transport Authority Board, claimed on 21-5-1991 that the Mildura train service to Melbourne "could be on the skids" unless the line was upgraded and the service improved. Mr. Pickering was concerned that the service was threatened from two quarters:

Mr. Pickering said if the existing line was welded and fast bogies were put under the carriages, the speed of the trains could be increased to anything up to 150 kph.

Mr. Pickering espoused further criticism of the State transport Authority on 3-7-1991 when he claimed that "The Vinelander" could become a thing of the past. He challenged the Minister for Transport, Mr. P. Spyker, and State Transport Authority Chief Executive Officer, Mr. I. Stoney, to deny they had purposefully set out to create the demise of the sleeping car service. Mr. Pickering also said there had been no promotion of "The Vinelander" since the mid 1980's.

Mildura Stationmaster, Mr. S. Hensgen, responded to Mr. Pickering's comments on 5-7-1991 by saying that there had been no consideration given to axing the sleeper service or "The Vinelander". He said that during the last 12 months, there had been an actual 10% increase in revenue from ticket sales at Mildura - about $1.1 million worth of tickets sold. Mr. Hensgen also countered claims by Mr. Pickering that there had been no promotion since the mid 1980's by pointing out that V/Line had been running a promotional fare campaign for the sleeper service since mid-May and that the response had been quite encouraging. Mr. Hensgen said that "The Vinelander" service competed well in the market, despite recent drops in the price of air fares.

The Minister for Transport, in July 1991, stated that "there were no specific plans at this time to replace Mildura passenger trains with road coaches, or alter the current timetable." The Minister was responding to a letter from Mr. K. Wright M.L.C. seeking an assurance that the service would continue.

"The Vinelander Plate' race meeting at Mildura Racing Club was conducted on 10-8-1991 with Mr. C. Fraiia, representing the Mildura Stationmaster making the presentation to the winning owner.

On Sunday 8-9-1991 the 9.45 p.m. Down "The Vinelander" to Mildura had two carriages added to the normal consist to build up the load as a timetable trial. The train consisted of N471, CP293*, SZ287 Sleeper*, SJ283 Sleeper, SJ281 Sleeper, BZ269, BRS221, ACZ255, D347, VMAP6, VMAP8. * additional carriages.

In September 1991, Mr. G. Smithwick, V/Line Marketing Director, responded to a concern by the Shire of Mildura about the future of trains stopping at Hattah and Irymple stations. Mr. Smithwick advised that a review of passenger activity at the ten stations between Maryborough and Mildura showed that an average of 30 passengers alighted/adjoined over eight trains a week. Only Donald, Ouyen and Redcliffs had regular passenger activity. In the case of the other seven stations, usage was sparse and on the majority of nights the trains were stopping for no passengers at all. Mr. Smithwick assured the Shire that by stopping trains at Hattah and Irymple only as required, V/Line could still provide a service to the community while offering a smoother service to through travellers.

On Sunday 20-10-1991, the Public Transport Corporation held an Open Day across the State. Free train rides were provided between Mildura and Red Cliffs with trains departing Mildura at 10.45 a.m., 12 noon and 2.30 p.m., and departing Red Cliffs at 11.20 a.m., 2.00 p.m., and 3.00 p.m.. Intending passengers were advised to make bookings and special tickets sponsored by McDonald's fast food chain were available at both Mildura and Red Cliffs stations from 11-10-1991. The special train for the shuttle trips consisted of X42, BZ269, BRS225, BZ270, ACZ251 and N462, the locomotives operating in "push-pull" mode.

At Ouyen, G536 and passenger car ACZ260 ran three trips to Speed and return. Ouyen departures were at 10.30 a.m., 12.30 p.m., and 2.30 p.m.. Speed departures were at 11.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m., and 3.15 p.m.. With 3,300 horsepower at its disposal and one passenger car behind it, G536 had little difficulty maintaining the schedule.

N462 at the head of one of the special shuttle trains from Mildura to Redcliffs and return on 20-10-1991 for the Public Transport Commission Open Day. X42 was attached to the rear of the train, both locomotives working in "push-pull" mode for the trips. Photo: Bruce McLean

The special Open Day train at Redcliffs with X42 preparing to take the lead home. 20-10-1991. Photo: Bruce McLean

Passengers participating in the Public Transport Commission Open Day at Redcliffs. 20-10-1991. Photo: Bruce McLean

The scene at Mildura after the arrival of one of the free special trains from Redcliffs to Mildura for the Public Transport Commission Open Day. 20-10-1991. Photo: Bruce McLean

In addition to the free train rides, from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., "The Vinelander" sleeping cars SJ282 and SJ284 and a Motorail wagon were open for inspection at Mildura platform, and the Mildura station office and Freightgate office were open for inspection. Staff were on hand to show visitors how V/Line handled, loaded and stowed local produce for market on the "Sunraysia Fresh" express goods train.

At Redcliffs, the Redcliffs Promotion Group provided a welcome for passengers and many local traders were open whilst the train shuttles were operating. The Mildura Shire President, Mrs. A. Cox, met all four trains and Sunraysia Transit buses took visitors to a reptile farm and Lindeman's Winery. More than 1500 people travelled on the free train trips.

Two sleeping cars off "The Vinelander" were placed at the platform for inspection during the Public Transport Commission open day at Mildura station. 20-10-1991. Photo: Bruce McLean

At the end of the Open Day, staff were required to clean the passenger cars for that nights "The Vinelander" service to Melbourne and then joined Mildura Stationmaster, Mr. S. Hensgen and the 32 volunteer staff members to celebrate the success of the day with a barbeque.

The departure of "The Vinelander" from Spencer Street to Mildura was altered from 9.45 p.m. to 9.55 p.m. with the Mildura arrival at 7.30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 7.40 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The departure from Mildura was altered from 9 p.m. to 9.10 p.m., with arrival at Spencer Street at 6.40 a.m.. The changes were effective from October 1991 (exact date not recorded).

The State government announced on 28-11-1991 that transit police and revenue protection officers would step up their patrols on country train services including "The Vinelander". The Mildura Stationmaster, Mr. S. Hensgen, welcomed the extra security and commented that the existing patrols had meant that "The Vinelander" was no trouble-free. In an odd twist, it was also reported on 1-12-1991, that one Mildura Transit officer had been moved to Bendigo and the remaining officer was returning to the Mildura Police Station from 1-2-1992 as funding had ceased to be available. This was the same time that itinerant harvest workers used the train and threatened the comfort of passengers.

Advertisement for Motorail service in Mildura's "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper. 11-12-1991. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

1992

V/Line offered special discounted fares for passengers using "The Vinelander" during the months of February and March as part of a campaign to encourage more travellers during a traditionally quiet time of the year. Discounts also applied to the Motorail car carrying service.

Discount fare promotion for Mildura trains from "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

In February 1992, the Prime Minister, Mr. P. Keating, announced that standard gauge lines would replace broad gauge on the Melbourne - Adelaide section of the national rail network.

Mr. S. Pickering of Meringur, a former State Transport Authority board member, was concerned that large section of the Victorian rail network, including the Mallee, could be cut off from important ports and markets "if huge amounts of State expenditure were not directed to linking the regional networks to the standard gauge project".

The Melbourne-based Victorian Transport User's Association claimed on 19-3-1992 that standardisation would be the "death knell" of passenger services to Mildura, Ballarat and Horsham.

Two divisions of "The Vinelander" were scheduled to Mildura on Good Friday, 17-4-1992. The first, scheduled to arrive at 6.10 a.m. was ten minutes late and the second arrived at 8.05 a.m., 15 minutes late. Both trains were combined to form the Up "The Vinelander" departure that night with N472 and N473 at the head of 15 vehicles. Only three sitting and two sleeping carriages were available for passengers - a far cry from the days when a 15 car passenger train from Mildura would have been fully patronised and Good Friday would have seen at least three trains arriving that morning. There was no train service from Mildura on Easter Thursday forcing potential patrons to either use buses, air services or private transport.

The Governor of Victoria, Mr. R. McGarvie, arrived at Mildura on 10-8-1992 in the Vice-regal State Car No.5 and special car "Goulburn", both attached to the rear of "The Vinelander". The Governor and his party returned to Melbourne by train on 12-8-1992.

State Car No.5 and "Goulburn" attached to the rear of "The Vinelander" for a visit by the Governor of Victoria. Mildura 10-8-1992. Photo: Bruce McLean

"Goulburn" and State Car No.5 were stabled in the Mildura carriage shed on the night of 10-8-1992. Note the red carpet on the walkway. 11-8-1992. Photo: Bruce McLean

1992 Victorian State Election

Victoria was gearing for another State election (eventually decided for 3-10-1992) and the subject of "The Vinelander" was once again an early issue.

The Premier, Mr. J. Kirner, claimed on regional radio on 26-3-1992, that an incoming Coalition government would close "The Vinelander" service to Mildura.

The Coalition leader, Mr. J. Kennett, in response on 27-3-1992, assured Sunraysia residents that "The Vinelander" would be retained by a Coalition government and said "I can give an unequivocal guarantee that "The Vinelander" will remain, and within our limited resources, will be improved".

The Opposition Leader, Mr. J. Kennett, surprised many when he declared in August 1992, that he would encourage business interests to run "The Vinelander" passenger service. The Transport Minister, Mr. P. Spyker, responded on 21-8-1992, by pointing out that "The Vinelander" service received a $2 million subsidy each year and that there was no way private enterprise would sustain such a loss.

The Coalition announced its transport policy on7-9-1992 and foreshadowed the privatisation of some country passenger services. The Transport Minister challenged the Coalition to guarantee the future of "The Vinelander".

The Liberal/National Party coalition won office on 3-10-1992 with Premier Mr. J. Kennett and Minister for Transport, Mr. A. Brown charged with the introduction of dramatic reforms to public transport administration.

"The Vinelander" was a difficult train to capture on film because of its nocturnal timetable, however with daylight saving it was possible to capture late night shots, such as this scene at 8.30 p.m. on Monday 21-12-1992 (the longest day). N469 stands at the head of the train at Mildura platform as Motorail traffic is loaded onto the rear two vehicles. Photo: Bruce McLean

"The Vinelander" standing at Mildura prior to departure. Vehicles for the Motorail service were being loaded via a new replacement ramp. 8.30 p.m. 21-12-1992. Photo: Bruce McLean

"The Vinelander" standing at Mildura platform at 8.30 p.m. on 21-12-1992 before its 9 p.m. departure for Melbourne. Photo: Bruce McLean

The new government faced a 24 shut down of all Victorian public transport on 20-11-1992 with "The Vinelander" clear to complete its journey from Melbourne that night to arrive in Mildura on the following morning. The services to Melbourne on Friday 21-11-1992 and Sunday 22-11-1992 were cancelled. Unions were protesting over the new government's contentious industrial relations program.

Public Transport Corporation staff were offered redundancy packages following an announcement by the government on 27-11-1992 that it intended to shed thousands of public sector jobs.

A strike on 14-12-1992 caused the Down "The Vinelander" which arrived at Mildura on Saturday 12-12-1992, to be held over until Wednesday 16-12-1992. On that day, N468 arrived with the Down "The Vinelander" making the unusual situation of two car sets in Mildura. That night saw one of the longest passenger trains depart since the days of the 14 car trains on Sunday nights in the 1970's.

1993

On 6-1-1993, the headline in "Sunraysia Daily' newspaper was "Vinelander Axed". This followed an announcement by the government that Mildura's "The Vinelander" train service would be offered to private enterprise, effectively ending V/Line's commitment to passenger rail services between Melbourne and Mildura. The announcement meant that Mildura was no longer guaranteed a passenger rail service and the government had the option for a road coach tender in preference to rail.

The sweeping transport reforms announced by the Minister for Transport, Mr. A. Brown were intended to transform Victoria's public transport system into a world class transport service, with government expectations of savings of $250 million a year.

The three local members of the Coalition, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A., Mr. B. Bishop M.L.C. and Mr. R. Best M.L.C., put out a joint press statement indicating that "The Vinelander" was one of nine passenger rail services to be offered for tender and that the decision was in line with the Coalition policy announced prior to the 3-10-1992 election. The three members also stated that the Mildura line was essential to the long term freight business of the Public Transport Corporation with one million tonnes or 50% of the State's rail grain task moving on the corridor.

The tenders for "The Vinelander" (and other country services) would be sought on the following basis:

The Transport Minister met with union leaders on 7-1-1993 and warned that he would not tolerate any "bloody minded" attempts to block the changes.

The majority of passenger traffic on "The Vinelander" was generated from/to Mildura, so what was the reaction to the dramatic announcements from the community and community leaders?

8-1-1993 Mildura City Council

Council was anxious to ensure that an appropriate service between Mildura and Melbourne was maintained and describing the closure of the service as "inevitable".

8-1-1993 Sunraysia Tourism

The community should dig its heels in and ensure any public transport service replacing "The Vinelander" was safe, reliable and inexpensive. Good public transport was a key element for a successful tourist industry and of major importance for families who could not afford more expensive forms of travel.

8-1-1993 Mildura PTC Staff

Devastated staff at Mildura railway station were gagged by the government from making any comments to the media.

8-1-1993 Mildura Chamber of Commerce

President Mr. D. Moore: "Without patronage "The Vinelander" is a luxury the community cannot afford".

10-1-1993 Mildura Independent Newspaper

Blamed the government, V/Line management and public transport unions for deliberately allowing the service to be run down over the years and encouraging travellers to use coach services.

12-1-1993 Mr. J. Zigouras, Labor Party Candidate for seat of Mildura

Challenged Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. and Mr. B. Bishop M.L.C. to oppose the closure of "The Vinelander". Mr. Zigouras said that it was "inconceivable that private enterprise can run an efficient train service. Accordingly we can assume the train service will cease".

15-1-1993 Sunraysia Trades and Labor Council

Called on local councils to join with other councils in the State to organise protests over the closure of country train services. Both Mildura City and Shire Councils would not commit themselves to any course of action at that stage.

15-1-1993 Mildura Shire Council

Shire President, Mr. R. Savage, indicated that the Shire would not be entering into any entrepreneurial arrangement to run a passenger train service.

Overall, the reaction from the community was disappointing. So much so that the author was moved to write the following letter to "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper, published on 19-1-1993:

The role of local parliamentarians, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. and Mr. B. Bishop M.L.C. started to come under scrutiny by mid-January 1993 with a steam of letters to "Sunraysia Daily". The two parliamentarians were part of the government and there was a growing concern that they were defending the government decision without consulting with their constituents. As later events unfolded, this concern in the Mallee electorate was to prove very costly to the Liberal and National Parties and their coalition government.

On 21-1-1993, the Sunraysia Trades and Labour Council (STLC) called on the Mayor of Mildura, Cr. K. Avery, to resign if she was not prepared to take on a leadership role to save "The Vinelander" passenger train service. The Secretary of the STLC, Mrs. M. Jamieson, wanted the Mayor to lead the way in a co-ordinated campaign, similar to other civic leaders in the State.

The Municipal Association of Victoria, representing all local governments, called on the government on 22-1-1993, to delay the tender process. They wanted time to allow councils, communities and other interested parties the opportunity to obtain accurate information to properly assess the viability of rail services and an assurance that local government would be involved in the process of evaluating the tenders.

The government rejected calls for a six months moratorium saying it had already extended the tender process and was firm that it would not waste any more time.

Tenders for "The Vinelander" Advertised

Tenders for the operation of public transport services were advertised throughout the State on 9-1-1993. Member for Mildura, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A., was confident that local investors could be found to run the Mildura line passenger service, however he made it clear that if a suitable tender was not found the retention of "The Vinelander" was a possibility but it would need greater patronage than the current level of about 300 passengers a week. "The Vinelander" was attracting an annual subsidy of $5.4 million compared with an alterative bus service subsidy of $1.5 million.

Part of the tender advertisement placed by the government as the next stage of deciding the future of "The Vinelander" passenger rail service between Melbourne and Mildura. 9-1-1993. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Mildura accountant and businessman, Mr. L. Thomson, who had previously been involved with Sunstate Airlines, and was the owner of Sunraysia Bus Lines and the paddle boat "Coonawarra", declared on 12-1-1993 that he was interested in conducting a feasibility study into operating an updated rail service. Mr. Thomson, through his bus company, had a 50% interest in the V/Line road coach service operating between Mildura and Bendigo.

Mr. Thomson, Sunraysia's sole prospective tenderer, announced on 11-2-1993 that he would not be submitting a tender for the rail service. He said that four solid weeks work devoted to finding whether a passenger train service between Mildura and Melbourne is feasible had left him with nothing but the knowledge that it is commercially unviable under the State government's tender documents.

Councillor Cr. R. Burr, of the Mildura City Council, condemned the government's haste and successfully moved on 25-1-1993, that the Mildura City Council host a public meeting on the issue. Cr. Burr claimed the timing of the reforms was deliberately made to rush it through the holiday period when people would find it difficult to gain information and organise themselves. Mildura Shire Council also condemned the axing of "The Vinelander" and supported the public meeting set for 4-2-1993. Shire President, Mr. R. Savage, said his council wanted "The Vinelander" retained and would take any steps to achieve that goal.

In a surprise misjudgement of community concern, the Mildura City Council placed a public notice in the local newspaper advising that the public meeting called to discuss the passenger rail service issue would also share another issue - Law and Order (Capital Punishment).

Notice placed by Mildura City Council in "Sunraysia Daily" on 3-2-1993 for the public "protest" meeting. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Attempts to obtain operating costs from the Public Transport Corporation prior to the public meeting were made by "Sunraysia Daily" and Mildura City Council to no avail.

The public meeting was held at the Mildura Arts Centre Amphitheatre with an attendance of about 250 people. A notable absentee was the Member for Mildura, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A., who copped a pasting in "Sunraysia Daily" that morning, over a press release he issued for publication on 22-9-1988 stating that Mildura MUST keep its train when a leaked State Transport Authority report showed that plans were afoot to replace the Mildura train and a number of other country train services with road coaches. Mr. Bildstien's secretary attended in his absence and took notes, but when his apology was tendered it met with derisive jeers from the crowd. Mr. B. Bishop, M.L.C. attended the meeting.

The meeting was addressed by Mr. G. Smithwick, V/Line Marketing Director, and Mr. J. McPherson of the Public Transport User's Association.

Mr. Smithwick informed the meeting that for Mildura passenger services to be retained, losses would have to be kept below $1 million a year - a difficult task even with the world class best practice. Mr. Smithwick encouraged the community to get behind tenderers, especially for rail, if that's what they wanted, and to provide any assistance, such as rail station maintenance or ticket sales, to make the rail operation more viable. The audience however, wanted to know exactly how "The Vinelander" managed to accrue losses of $5.38 million a year.

Mr. McPherson encouraged the community not to give up the fight to retain "The Vinelander" and should make its feelings clear to the Minister for Transport and district politicians through a letter writing campaign.

Emotions were running high when the Mayor, Cr. K. Avery, moved to end the meeting at 7.30 p.m., allowing on 15 minutes of questions. The Mayor relented and allowed question time to run for another hour before the law and order meeting took place.

Mildura City Council Chief Executive, Mr. D. Goss, acknowledged that the public meeting had clearly ruled out the introduction of road coaches as a replacement for trains and wrote to the Public Transport Minister telling him that road coach tenders were totally an unacceptable mode of transport between Mildura and Melbourne. Mr. Goss said that rail was the only alternative for the wider community including the disabled and elderly, not just able-bodied people.

Mr. Goss also sought a six-month moratorium on State rail reform and asked the Minister for a comprehensive set of figures on train operating costs. Mr. Goss also wrote to the Liberal Member for Mildura, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A., and National Party Members, Messrs. B. Bishop and R. Best, Members for North Western Province seeking them to put the community's wishes ahead of party politics and to help change the Minister for Public Transport's mind.

On 6-2-1993, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. wrote a lengthy letter to the Editor of "Sunraysia Daily", defending his decision to support the Kennett government's about face on "The Vinelander". Mr. Bildstien said he had been a strong supporter of retention of the train but with the cost of subsidising the poorly patronised service it "was now almost impossible to justify its continued existence from the public purse". Mr. Bildstien also attacked the Mildura City Council claiming that "those most vocal don't use the service".

Mr. Bildstien, now clearly on a path he could not retreat from, attacked Sunraysia's public reaction on 10-2-1993, saying that Mildura's public concern had been "sentimental". (Mr. Bildstien's seat of Mildura was one of the safest Liberal seats in the State and he may well have relied on this historic support when making this utterance. As events unfolded he was committing political suicide).

On 11-2-1993, Mr. L. Thomson announced he would not be tendering for a passenger rail contract (refer separate item) and this left Sunraysia with the hope that the Kennett government would do a back flip on its decision to scrap "The Vinelander".

Support for Mildura's train was coming from everywhere. Other municipalities, the Labor Party in opposition (who had not supported cancellation of "The Vinelander" despite the desire of the Public Transport Corporation), letter writers to newspapers, disabled groups, Country Women's Association, tourism organisations, in fact, the whole of the State was outraged. A protest rally in Melbourne on 12-2-1993 drew protesters from as far afield as Warrnambool, Bairnsdale, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Cobram, Wodonga, Horsham, Geelong and Sunraysia.

A private enterprise organisation called "Southern Cross Rail" announced on 17-2-1993 that it would be tendering to operate casino trains on long haul lines, including Mildura. The proposal drew a reserved response from Mildura City Council.

During the hype surrounding the demise of "The Vinelander" service, Cr. G. Lucas of Mildura City Council suggested on 26-2-1993 that a sleeping car and carriage be attached to the overnight express goods service "The Sunraysia Fresh" (still colloquially known as "The Fruit Flier" or "Fruity" despite its up-market name change). The idea did not attract much interest as the arrangements for running a goods train were quite different to the requirements of a passenger train and "Mixed" trains as this type of arrangement was known, were last phased out in Victoria on 13-3-1962 after nearly 120 years of operation. Following a decade of complaints about downgrading "The Vinelander" passenger service, this would have to have been the ultimate downgrade idea of all time, despite Cr. Lucas' best intentions!

N453 arrives at Mildura with the second division of "The Vinelander" on the morning of Good Friday 9-4-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

Mildura City Council's Chief Executive, Mr. D. Goss, continued to seek talks with the Minister for Public Transport during March 1993, enlisting the support of both Mr. Bildstien M.L.A. and Mr. Bishop M.L.C., but Mr. Brown was refusing to meet with any country representative organisations.

Clearly, the Minister was toughing it out, however he did seem content to meet with public transport unions and the Bus Proprietors Association. This led to growing speculation that the State government had made country train travellers the pawns in a power game with unions.

Shadow Transport Minister, Mr. P. Batchelor, claimed that the Minister had been meeting regularly with the unions and that country parliamentarians had let their communities down and in many cases, had failed to present petitions to parliament from their constituents. This "rail-axing hoax" was given further weight on 11-3-1993 when the Swan Hill Development and Promotion Corporation chief executive said there had been an increasing belief that the threat to country lines had only been a device to get the union movement to make compromises.

On 16-3-1993, it was announced that passenger rail services would be retained on at least six country rail corridors after agreement had been reached with the public transport unions for cost saving measures. At that stage there was no indication that "The Vinelander" would be retained.

The second division of "The Vinelander" arrives at Mildura station platform to people waiting to greet travellers after their overnight journey from Melbourne. Good Friday 9-4-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

Southern Cross Rail spokesman, Mr. B. Reilly, who had tendered for all nine passenger rail services, claimed on 17-3-1993, that country Victoria had been "shafted totally" for the sake of industrial peace in Melbourne and the State government had already made its mind up to replace "The Vinelander" with road coaches.

In the meantime, a petition being gathered protesting about the demise of the train was not in an acceptable form according to Mr. Bildstien M.L.A. on 17-3-1993, as they had not been properly worded and were photo-copied.

Long standing Mildura councillor and Mayor, Mr. R. Burr, challenged Mr. Bildstien M.L.A. and Mr. Bishop M.L.C., on 19-3-1993 to guarantee that "The Vinelander" would be retained. Cr. Burr said he could not understand why the two district political representatives could say they were "delighted" that six country passenger rail services would retained when it was extremely likely that "The Vinelander" would be replaced by buses. Cr. Burr challenged them to put out a statement immediately that "The Vinelander" would be retained and what role they played in its retention. Mr. Bishop declined the challenge saying that he would like to be able to guarantee the service but the Minister had called in independent consultants to assess which six lines would be retained. There was no reported response from Mr. Bildstien.

On 24-3-1993, "Sunraysia Daily" came out with the headline "It's time to stand up and be counted, Sunraysia" and started a vigorous campaign to save "The Vinelander" by publishing and promoting a petition to hand to the Kennett government.

Part of the full page petition published in "Sunraysia Daily" newspaper on 24-3-1993. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Petition advertisement used by "Sunraysia Daily" in their campaign to save "The Vinelander". Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Another "Sunraysia Daily" promotional advertisement to encourage the petition to be signed. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

The Minister finally agreed to meet a deputation of eight municipalities serviced by "The Vinelander" on 24-3-1993. Mildura was represented by the Mayor, Cr. K. Avery. The meeting lasted over an hour and Cr. Avery presented Mr. Brown with a copy of the "Save the Train" petition and a rare editorial by "Sunraysia Daily" calling for a six months moratorium on any decision on the train's fate. The Minister ruled out a six months moratorium and the delegation felt the Minister was not well briefed as he compared a 90 minutes coach trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island with the Melbourne to Mildura route. The Minister would not give a guarantee that the train service would be continued. The meeting was the first time affected communities had had a hearing from Mr. Brown since Mildura City Council approached him in February.

During March 1993, the Letters to the Editor columns of "Sunraysia Daily" were filled with outraged writers with many expressing dismay at the political servitude of the local parliamentary members, particularly Mr. Bildstien. People could not get to the petition signing points quick enough. More than 10,200 signatures were collected with petitions coming from Ouyen, Robinvale and Maryborough as well as the Sunraysia area. Cr. A. Cox of Mildura Shire Council summed up the petition result by saying that it was a clear enough message that the community did not want its passenger rail service scrapped or reduced. The petitions were presented to Cabinet Secretary, Mrs. R. Varty, by "Sunraysia Daily" editor, Mr. G. Northey at parliament house on 2-4-1993 with the request that they be tabled in the Legislative Assembly.

With one Motorail wagon trailing, the second division of "The Vinelander" has arrived at Mildura station on Good Friday, 9-4-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

Former long-standing district parliamentarian, Mr. M. Whiting, on 6-4-1993, described plans to scrap "The Vinelander" as disastrous. As this history shows, Mr. Whiting fought to improve the passenger rail service for years including previous threats to withdraw the service. Mr. Whiting said that the performance of district parliamentarians in fighting for the retention of "The Vinelander" had been disappointing. Mr. Whiting observed that "if Swan Hill is saved and Mildura goes, Barry Bishop might at least be able to say that he had a 50 percent success. If we miss out on "The Vinelander", Craig (Bildstien) has got absolutely nothing for this community".

Throughout April 1993, "Sunraysia Daily" published a series of articles highlighting the human side of rail travel and the hardships that would be faced by many people with families, disabilities, or aged persons. Safety and comfort were notable features of rail travel according to many people interviewed for the articles. Many would refuse to travel by bus if it were substituted for the train service.

Easter 1993 provided an example of support "The Vinelander" was getting from passengers. Two divisions of the train departed from Spencer Street on 8-4-1993, arriving the following morning with 451 passengers. Had road coaches been used, it would have required ten to do the same task. The two divisions of "The Vinelander" were made into one train for Good Friday night's departure. The long train consisted of two N Class locomotives, D van, eight seating cars, two sleeping cars, and Motorail wagons. "The Vinelander" from Mildura on Sunday night 11-4-1993 carried 115 passengers.

"The Vinelander" petition was eventually tabled in the Legislative Assembly by Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. on 21-4-1993, more than two weeks after it was presented to the government. It was one of the largest petitions presented to parliament in recent times and 9,805 signatures of the 10,200 submitted were acknowledged.

The Victorian National Party State Conference at Wangaratta on the weekend of 24 & 25-4-1993 called for full consultation with representatives of municipalities before the government accepted any alternative passenger service tender replacing country rail services. The Kennett government appeared to be unmoved by the National Party call, setting the scene for a term of office that saw many services reduced in country areas. The Nationals seemed to be impotent standing up to their coalition partners who were setting the agenda.

On 28-4-1993, it was announced that an agreement had been made between the State Government, Trades Hall and Unions to co-operate on reforms for the entire public transport system covering trains, trams and buses. The public transport unions agreed to micro-economic reforms that would see rail passenger operations, rolling stock maintenance and infrastructure services operated on an international best practice level. The agreement was for four years, terminating on 15-2-1997.

Mildura lost its fight when the Kennett government finally ended drawn-out speculation on the future of "The Vinelander" and announced on 30-4-1993, that the passenger train service would be replaced by a six nights a week road coach service. There would also be a six days a week connection from Mildura to Swan Hill linking with rail services to Melbourne. The government would continue to operate V/Line services to Albury/Wodonga, Swan Hill, Stony Point and Sale. Privately operated rail services would operate to Warrnambool and Shepparton. Road coaches would replace train services from Melbourne to Mildura, Leongatha and Dimboola, Sale to Bairnsdale and Shepparton to Cobram.

Mildura was to become the largest inland centre in Australia without a passenger rail service.

The community reaction to the announcement was varied:

Mr. P. Batchelor, Victorian Shadow Transport Minister

Questioned the commitment of some of Sunraysia's political and civic leaders. He believed they were not totally committed to their communities.

Mr. D. Moore, President, Mildura Chamber of Commerce

The replacement service to be provided by the government was not adequate for the needs of many in the community.

Cr. A. Cox, Shire of Mildura

Supported an idea by former Mildura Mayor, Mr. L. Beasy, that an eminent local group be set up to develop a proposal for the future operation of a passenger train.

Mr. P. O'Connor, Public Transport User's Association

The decision had devastated his organisation as it believed with promotion and upgrading of the service it would be an important vehicle in the promotion of tourism.

Cr. K. Avery, Mayor, City of Mildura

Council would closely monitor the service via Swan Hill to ensure there was assistance for the disabled and no lag times between the linking of the coach and rail service. There were also real concerns about running a coach at night on the Sunraysia Highway because of safety reasons.

Mrs. E. Doering, Mildura-Millewa Group of the Country Women's Association

People will have to travel by coach or not at all - in a lot of cases, not at all. Buses will not provide a good service for the disabled or elderly.

Mrs. D. Knight, Sunraysia Mallee Disabled Persons Self Help Group

The decision was discrimination against the elderly and people with disabilities.

Mrs. D. Horbury, Victorian Federation of State Schools Parents Club

Sunraysia should not give in the fight to stop cutbacks to its services and should again protest against the axing of "The Vinelander".

The Melbourne-based consortium, Southern Cross Rail, held talks with Sunraysia Tourism officials in early May 1993, straight after the Minister's announcement, and indicated that they were interested in a joint venture with local business groups or individuals for the running of tourist trains to Mildura. The proposed service would be based at Mildura with redundant V/Line staff being given the first option for employment. The tourist train would run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights with a day service on Wednesday. If the joint venture went ahead steps would be taken to secure rolling stock and locomotives surplus to V/Line operational requirements.

The road coach option for travel between Mildura and Melbourne was considered to be an unacceptable option by many sections of the community relying on public transport. The Public Transport Corporations purchase of new railcars, given the marketing name of "Sprinter" for commuter services on the V/Line passenger network, gave hope to many that this type of rail travel could be the answer for an economical train service. "Sprinter" railcars however, were not designed for long distance travel, but for short distance inter-urban traffic radiating from Melbourne to Ballarat, Bendigo, Traralgon, and Seymour. The first Sprinter rail car went into service on the Ballarat line on 20-12-1993.

A new "Sprinter" railcar on the Ballarat line. These rail cars were not designed for long-distance travel but for short inter-urban runs radiating from Melbourne. Photo: Public Transport Corporation

The Public Transport Corporation announced on 25-5-1993 that Sunbury Buslines were the successful tenderer for the connecting service between Mildura and Swan Hill and the overnight service between Melbourne and Mildura, following the route of "The Vinelander" service through Ballarat. The existing day service continued under contract to Broadmeadows Bus Charter.

The new timetable for replacement rail services was condemned by Mildura City Council on 26-5-1993. Mayor Cr. K. Avery, was critical of the 4 a.m. departure time for passengers to depart Mildura by coach to connect with the Swan Hill train. The replacement bus timetables were as follows:

Day

From

Departure

To

Arrival

Note

Mon - Thurs

Melbourne

5.42 p.m.

Mildura

12.40 a.m.

Via Swan Hill

Friday

Melbourne

3.50 p.m.

Mildura

11.00 p.m.

Via Swan Hill

Sunday

Melbourne

5.05 p.m.

Mildura

12.10 a.m.

Via Swan Hill

Mon - Thurs

Mildura

4.05 a.m.

Melbourne

11 a.m.

Via Swan Hill

Friday

Mildura

1.15 p.m.

Melbourne

8.29 p.m.

Via Swan Hill

Sunday

Mildura

2.15 p.m.

Melbourne

9.30 p.m.

Via Swan Hill

Mon - Sun

Melbourne

  

Mildura

  

Via Ballarat/Geelong

Mon - Sun

Mildura

9.10 p.m.

Melbourne

6.55 a.m.

Via Ballarat/Geelong

 

Melbourne

  

Mildura

  

Via Bendigo

Monday

Mildura

8.00 a.m.

Melbourne

5.10 p.m.

Via Bendigo

Tues - Fri

Mildura

8.30 a.m.

Melbourne

5.10 p.m.

Via Bendigo

Sat - Sun

Mildura

10.40 a.m.

Melbourne

7.04 p.m.

Via Bendigo

There appeared to be a lot of confusion over the road coach tenders and proposed timetable via Swan Hill which was described as unviable by Mr. L. Thomson of Sunraysia Bus Lines, who already held the V/Line contract between Mildura and Bendigo. According to Mr. Bildstien M.L.A. on 28-5-1993, the timetable had not been "set in concrete" and the Public Transport Corporation would consult travellers prior to finalising the times.

In a report in "Sunraysia Daily" on 2-6-1993, it was revealed that Sunbury Coaches and Broadmeadows Bus Lines had not sighted their contracts from the PTC and both had new coaches worth $450,000 each waiting to be built and there was little hop of achieving the proposed starting date of 23-8-1993.

In the weeks that followed the announcement that "The Vinelander" would be replaced by buses, the hostility in the community to the decision and local member, Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. increased through letters to "Sunraysia Daily". Mr. S. Pickering, a former board member on the old State Transport Authority, called on the community to rally and support "The Vinelander" before it ceased to run, instead of viewing the decision to cancel a lost cause. Mr. Pickering was supported by former parliamentarians, Mr. M. Whiting and Mr. K. Wright and Sunraysia Trades and Labour Council. "Sunraysia Daily" also supported the call by commencing to publish the daily rail passenger booking with the slogan "Fighting to Save The Vinelander".

Tally of passenger traffic introduced by "Sunraysia Daily" in support of the fight to save "The Vinelander". Source: Bruce McLean Collection

"Sunraysia Daily" also published times and fares for "The Vinelander" to encourage higher patronage. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Support for retaining "The Vinelander" continued to grow from community leaders and the public, except from the chief of Sunraysia Tourism, Mr. I. Waller, who said on 5-6-1993 that Mildura would be better off forgetting "The Vinelander" service and concentrating on generating business and tourists to the area. Mildura City Council at its meeting on 7-6-1993, rejected a proposal that its representatives use "The Vinelander" service in preference to other modes of travel to Melbourne.

Public Transport Union officials met in Melbourne on 8-6-1993 to consider a range of Industrial Award concessions aimed at rescuing "The Vinelander" service and member jobs. The meeting was the result of a request by Mrs. M. Jamieson of the Sunraysia Trades and Labour Council but there was nothing of substance to offer to the government.

"Sunraysia Daily" reminded readers on 8-6-1993 that the Premier, Mr. J. Kennett, had promised on one of his many visits to Mildura to not only retain "The Vinelander" but to improve it and asked what support he could give the community in view of its efforts to lift support for the train. There was no reported response from the Premier.

The "Sunraysia Daily" campaign continued to gather momentum with support and issues continually raised every day. They included:

* Carey Baptist Grammar School in Melbourne sent 200 students on "The Vinelander" to Hattah for an excursion and wanted the service to continue so they could maintain this concept;

* District sporting bodies vowed to send team participants by train;

Letters were received from many elderly people, concerned about how they would travel in the future;

* Sunraysia Churches said that removal of the train would sap the morale of struggling communities and if the train was to go, it must be replaced by something better, and buses were not better.

The Mildura Sacred Heart Church was offered as a venue for an 11th hour public meeting on 23-6-1993 to marshal community support. More than 200 community groups and organisations, district politicians, representatives of the Public Transport User's Association and Public Transport Corporation were invited. Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. apologised in advance of the meeting as he would be in Lithuania.

The meeting was attended by about 300 people and speakers included the Opposition Transport spokesman, Mr. P. Batchelor, who said that all political parties should elevate the issue of saving "The Vinelander" above politics, Mr. B. Bishop, M.L.C. who challenged the meeting to form a committee or representative group to put its case to the PTC, Mr. J. McPherson from the Public Transport Users Association who claimed that there was a massive overstatement of $4 million in the governments estimates of annual losses incurred by the train and Cr. R. Burr of Mildura City Council who stirred the crowd with an impassioned case to retain the train for all people in the community with special needs.

After two hours of passionate speeches, the meeting voted unanimously to form a committee comprising eight people to continue to fight for the train service.

The committee was called "The Save The Vinelander Action Group" and the members consisted of Mr. S. Pickering (Victorian Farmer's Federation), Mrs. D. Knight (disabled persons representative), Mr. P. Haenan (Tourism), Ms. A. McGregor (Australian Conservation Foundation), Mrs. M. Jamieson (Sunraysia Trades and Labour Council), Mr. J. Brown (Mildura Chamber of Commerce), Father D. Murphy (Sacred Heart Church), Ms. J. Coyle and Mr. B. Johnson (parents representatives), Mrs. J. Watmuff (Country Women's Association) and Mr. R. Cox (pensioner representative).

The key issue now centred on the accuracy of the expenditure and revenue figures for operating "The Vinelander". Five members from the Action Group met with Mr. G. Smithwick, Public Transport Corporation Marketing Director, in Mildura on 30-6-1993. Mr. Smithwick admitted that overhead costs had been overstated by $400,000. Mr. Smithwick indicated that he would provide operating figures for the service.

A submission for the Minister from the Sunraysia Mallee Disabled Persons Self Help Group was also handed to Mr. Smithwick at the meeting.

The Minister for Public Transport, Mr. A. Brown, announced on 18-1-1993 that he would be seeking community involvement in his public transport reforms with the establishment of a Victorian Public Transport Forum.

The author decided to apply for membership of the Forum with the view that if "The Vinelander" was taken off, he would be in a position to ensure that Mallee transport travellers were provided with the best possible alternate services and to explore opportunities for the restoration of a more modern, economical passenger train service.

The Minister announced on 9-6-1993 that the author's application was successful.

Members of the Victorian Public Transport Forum at the inaugural meeting with the Minister for Public Transport, Mr. A. Brown, at Transport House, Melbourne on 9-6-1993. The Minister is seated at the head of the table to the left. The author is standing at the rear, between the two ladies. The Forum was represented by members from throughout the metropolitan and regional areas of the State. The author's modus-operandi was "if we are not to have a passenger train, then we must ensure that we have the best public transport available". Photo: Public Transport Corporation

There was a 40% increase in passenger numbers on "The Vinelander" by 6-7-1993 after the first month of the campaign to save the train commenced. The average number of passengers had increased from 77 to 109 each trip (up 41.5%) and the revenue increased from $4,982 to $6,371 per trip. These figures excluded revenue from concession travellers and Motorail traffic.

The PTC forwarded operating figures to the office of Mr. B. Bishop M.L.C. on 7-7-1993 and they were passed onto the Action Group for assessment. The figures were provided by Mr. G. Smithwick, PTC Marketing Director and he made the following points:

* "The Vinelander" loses more than $5 million on today's costs. At worlds best practice operating levels it would still lose $2 million;

* "The Vinelander" cannot compete with travel times by road. The new alternatives, including road-rail via Swan Hill are two hours faster than the existing service via Ballarat;

The Action Group, at its meeting on 8-7-1993, sought a meeting with Public Transport Minister Brown to present a submission, but the Minister refused to meet with them. A second attempt to meet with the Minister was arranged by Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A. and was eventually agreed to on 8-9-1993. In the meantime, the fight being staged by Mildura was hailed as one of the sparks that re-ignited a state-wide campaign to get the government to overturn its decision to close country rail services. The introduction of coaches on the Leongatha line was unpopular with travellers and a school bus smash near Swan Hill on 28-7-1993, raised further concerns. The Wimmera-Mallee Rail Services Association, fighting to retrain services to Horsham and Dimboola, offered support and assistance and both the 14,000 member Country Women's Association and Combined Pensioners Association of Victoria pledged their support and to lobby the government and Opposition if efforts to save the services were unsuccessful.

On 26-6-1993, tenders were recalled for the road coach service between Mildura and Swan Hill, however it was revealed by the government on 27-7-1993 that delays in the construction of replacement road coaches had occurred and this meant that it could no longer adhere to its 22-8-1993 date for the last run of "The Vinelander". The Minister announced on 16-8-1993 that the new road coach service would commence on Sunday 19-9-1993.

Expressions of interest for use of the Redcliffs railway station were advertised on 13-8-1993, although negotiations had been underway for some time with the Shire of Mildura who wanted to secure the site as a community resource.

The State Labor Opposition held a historic Shadow Cabinet meeting in Mildura on 18-8-1993 and travelled to and from Mildura by "The Vinelander". Leader, Mr. J. Brumby, when questioned on Labor's position with the cut back in country rail services, could give no guarantee that services lost would be replaced in the future. Mr. Brumby encouraged the community to fight to save local services "as once they have gone they are gone forever". He also stated that Mildura had been easy picking for the government as the local members had not stood up for their electorate.

The Public Transport Corporation announced on 21-8-1993 that Swanlink Coachlines of Swan Hill would be operating the Mildura to Swan Hill services.

The Save the Vinelander Action Group sent four delegates to Melbourne to meet with Minister Brown on 8-9-1993 to seek a 12 months moratorium on closure of the service. The delegates were convenor, Father D. Murphy, Mr. S. Pickering, Mrs. M. Jamieson and Mrs. D. Knight. This last ditch effort was unsuccessful as the Minister was standing by his decision to axe "The Vinelander" and it would leave Mildura for the last time on 17-9-1993. Father Murphy was critical of the district parliamentarians who accompanied them to the meeting, indicating that they sat silently and did not back the deputation up. Mr. Brown's only assurance was that the line would be kept open and rolling stock from the existing service would be retained in case of initiatives like a tourist train to Sunraysia. (The four ex "The Overland" sleeping cars were retained in storage at Newport Workshops).

The Mildura passenger platform and buildings two weeks before "The Vinelander" ceased running. After some limited commercial use, the Motorail loading ramps remained at the station in the event that they may have some further application. 28-8-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

The Minister for Public Transport continued his tough stand on the train by terminating the service a week prematurely, stunning all travellers who believed the service would terminate on 17-9-1993. V/Line staff informed travellers from Melbourne that there was a "mudslide" at Ballarat and trains would be substituted with buses. In Mildura, train patrons were forced onto two coaches including a young woman with a baby who had booked a sleeping berth for her trip. The reality was that travellers were deceived as the government did not want a repeat of the protest at Bairnsdale when 600 people sat on the track to prevent the last train from departing. Father Murphy of the Save The Vinelander Action Group stated that "this government shows the characteristics of all governments that govern against the will of the people - they are afraid of people having their say.

The last "The Vinelander" train was the run from Mildura on Sunday 12-9-1993, the last from Melbourne to Mildura being on Friday 10-9-1993.

A deserted Mildura station platform with what was to become a familiar scene following the demise of "The Vinelander" passenger train service to Mildura. 28-8-1993. Photo: Bruce McLean

Premier J. Kennett, trying to salvage something from the political debacle, said on 14-9-1993 that he was disappointed and surprised that no entrepreneur had taken up the challenge to run a passenger service on the Melbourne to Mildura line. He considered it a prime candidate to be taken over by the private sector and run as a tourist train.

"The Vinelander" was symbolically buried on 17-9-1993 when the Save The Vinelander Action Group led a "funeral" procession from the Langtree Mall to Mildura railway station. Father Murphy address the gathering saying that voters should indicate their displeasure with the rail decision by withholding votes from Mr. Bildstien M.L.A. at the next election. He also said that "We are going to bury "The Vinelander" and the career of Mr. Bildstien".

As time would tell, the decision to cancel "The Vinelander" and the weak political representation from the sitting members, was to cost the government dearly. Mr. C. Bildstien was thrown out of office, being defeated by Independent Mr. R. Savage and the Liberal Party lost their mortgage on their safest seat - the seat of Mallee. Eventually they were defeated in government by the vote of Mr. Savage and two other independent parliamentarians who had lost train services to their electorates.

The Action Group continued to be active for some time, collecting experiences of dissatisfaction from travellers using the new coach services. "Sunraysia Daily continued to be inundated with letters from dissatisfied coach travellers for months after the train service ceased.

V/Line Customer Bulletin with new services following cancellation of "The Vinelander". 22-9-1993. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Advertisement for connecting services between Mildura and Swan Hill. 29-9-1993. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

1994

When the Kennett government privatised the Shepparton and Warrnambool passenger train services, the successful tenderer for the Warrnambool line was a company operating as "West Coast Rail". On 3-1-1994, the Chairman of West Coast Rail, Mr. D. Gibson, indicated that the Mildura line was looked at by his company but they only tendered for the Warrnambool line because it was the most promising service. West Coast had been operating the Warrnambool line since January 1993 and when the new service was consolidated, Mr. Gibson's company would check out the possibility of a passenger train service between Melbourne and Mildura.

Mr. Gibson, in the company of his fellow directors, visited Mildura on 28-3-1994 at the invitation of the Mildura Train Action Group to assess district support for a service. The meeting was attended by Mr. C. Bildstien M.L.A., Mr. B. Bishop M./L.C., representatives of Mildura City, Mildura and Wentworth Shire councils, Sunraysia Development Corporation and Sunraysia Tourism. Mr. Gibson suggested that the region should push for greater equity of funding for the Mildura railway line if the service was to be reinstated. He also suggested that Mildura should try and arrange special passenger trains in conjunction with special events. (Bus operators had seven year contracts to run services in lieu of government subsidised passenger trains).

On 25-3-1994, V/Line Passenger launched a new image and philosophy - "V/Line - at your service". The launch involved extensive press advertising and was designed to win back customers who, according to V/Line Passenger Managing Director, Mr. G. Smithwick, was in response to many communities that had become cynical about V/Line Passenger.

First advertisement launching the new V/Line Passenger image. 25-3-1994. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

Schedule of times for travel options to Mildura. This schedule was attached to the launch advertisement for the new V/Line image. 25-3-1994. Source: Bruce McLean Collection

On 2-6-1994, Oasis Trains Ltd., formed by a committee associated with the Mildura Train Action Group, announced that it would be running the first privately-owned passenger train service between Melbourne and Mildura. Named "Oasis Express", the train was to run from Melbourne to Mildura on 22-7-1994 to coincide with the Mildura Cup at Sandalong Park Racecourse the following day. The train would have capacity for 220 people, a buffet car, a dining car and a baggage car, and would be hauled by an N or A Class locomotive. It was suggested that the cost of hiring the train was $28,000.

The fare would cost $295 for each person for twin share accommodation. The Oasis Express was scheduled to depart from Spencer Street, Melbourne, at 8.45 a.m. on 22-7-1994 and arrive in Mildura at 6.30 p.m. The return journey would depart Mildura at noon on 24-7-1994 and arrive in Melbourne at 9 p.m.. Booking could be made through Sunraysia Tourism.

The politicians who were responsible for the cancellation of "The Vinelander" were particularly interested in the Oasis Express concept, with the Deputy Premier, Mr. P. McNamara, convinced "it would demonstrate there was a viable opportunity to run special trains to the Sunraysia region".

On 23-6-1994, the Oasis Train convenor, Father D. Murphy, discovered that V/Line had commenced promoting a "Mildura Cup Special" for $199, with $180 for pensioners and a $45 single surcharge. An outraged Father Murphy complained to Mr. C, Bildstien M.L.A. who, then contacted the Minister for Public Transport, Mr. A. Brown. At first the Oasis Train group thought that V/Line were running a train in opposition, however it turned out to be a package promotion using regular V/Line services from Melbourne to Mildura, via Swan Hill. The Minister indicated he would not stop the V/Line promotion as bookings had already been accepted.

V/Line approached the Mildura Racing Club to provide concessions for bus travellers visiting the Mildura Cup meeting, and the club withdrew the concessions when it learned that the V/Line travel also involved a part train journey. V/Line threatened to sue the club and they were reinstated. A spokesperson for V/line made the claim that they had run a special tourist train to coincide with the Mildura Racing Club Cup meeting in 1992. However, former racing club Secretary-Manager, Mr. G. Tilley, said the claim was "rubbish". Mr. Tilley pointed out that V/Line ran a normal service for "The Vinelander Plate" race meeting in August 1992 and there was a special package for people taking part in the racing club promotion. It was an arrangement that started with the first anniversary of "The Vinelander" in 1973.

The Oasis Express organisers continued with promotion of the train in Melbourne with invitation sent out and radio and print media advertising, however on 15-7-1994 the train was cancelled due to insufficient bookings. The V/Line package attracted 35 race goers.

The demise of "The Vinelander" in September 1993 had a dramatic effect on V/Line revenue at Mildura with ticket sales turnover reduced from about $1 million to about $500,000 by May 1994 according to a newspaper report on 12-6-1994. It was clearly obvious that passengers were shunning the new coach travel arrangements.

In October 1994, regional train action groups formed as a result of train service closures, agreed to form a "Victorian Regional Rail Network" to bring organised pressure to bear on the State government to reconsider its decision on rail closures. Groups from Ararat, Bairnsdale, Leongatha, Mildura, Horsham and Wodonga were represented

<< Back | Home | Site Map Copyright © 2003 Bruce McLean, All Rights Reserved