Station Nameboards Return to the Great Victorian Rail Trail

Published on 08 December 2023

In a collaborative effort between the Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail (GVRT) group and Mansfield Shire Council, replica vintage station nameboards have been successfully installed at five key locations along the Mansfield end of the Great Victorian Rail Trail.

Earlier this year, Council allocated funding to support the community-initiated project led by the Friends of the GVRT. The project aimed to reintroduce the historic charm of vintage station signs to the trail, paying homage to the rich railway history of the region.

"Council recognises the importance of preserving our local history," said Mayor Cr Steve Rabie.

"The installation of these replica station nameboards reflects our commitment to maintaining the heritage of the Great Victorian Rail Trail."

“The Friends have done a fantastic job with the nameboards, and we are sure they will be appreciated by locals and by visitors using the Trail.”

The selected towns featuring the newly installed station nameboards are Bonnie Doon, Woodfield, Mansfield, Maindample, and Merton.

The signs, laser-cut aluminium letters and powder-coated steel, closely replicate the original 1910s design of cast letters and timber backboards, closely replicate the original 1910s design, contributing to the authenticity of the project.

Council's Field Services team worked with the Friends to install the signs, ensuring they were securely placed for safety and longevity.

Ross Vaughan from the Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail group said these station nameboards complement the recently installed wayfinding/directional and interpretative signage along the entire rail trail.

“When these lines closed in the 1970's and the railway corridor was picked clean by salvage contractors, many of the iconic signs disappeared into rubbish tips and private homes. Mother Nature took care of the rest,” he said.

“Rail trail support groups such as the Friends of the GVRT are being encouraged to bring these heritage-style nameboards back as a way of linking rail trails with their previous life.”

Looking ahead, the Friends of the GVRT plan to leverage the success of this project to seek additional grant funding. Their ultimate goal is to extend the installation of these vintage station nameboards across the length of the GVRT.

For more information contact council on council@mansfield.vic.gov.au or on 5775 8555.

Pictured L-R: Deputy Mayor Cr Mark Holcombe and Mayor Cr Steve Rabie