‘Momentous Day’: Bendigo Tramways Celebrates Half Century

 

 

Today marks 50 years that Bendigo Tramways has been operating as a tourist tram service in town. 

 

In 1972, 20,000 people celebrated the last public transport tram ride, with most of the fleet then moved to museums across the country and overseas.

 

However, the Bendigo Trust passionately fought hard to hold onto some of the trams for a 15-month tourist tram trial

 

The 15-month trial has now become a 50-year legacy as the Vintage Talking Tram Service is still running weekly through Bendigo, entertaining and educating locals and visitors alike on the importance of trams in the history of Bendigo.

 

Chairman of The Bendigo Trust Tom Smith said it’s hard to imagine the town without it’s heritage trams. 

 

“Trams are entwined into the fabric and history of Bendigo” Smith said. 

 

“To still be operating today, 50 years on, is a testament to the vision, passion and commitment of so many people who fought hard to save the trams.” 

 

Image: Emile Pavlich.