Station nameboards return to the Great Victorian Rail Trail

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

In mid-2023, 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.

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

The new signs, constructed from powder-coated steel with laser-cut aluminium letters in place of the original cast letters screwed to timber backboards, closely replicate the original 1910s design, contributing to the authenticity of the project. Installation was carried out by Mansfield Shire Council’s field services team.

“The installation of these replica station nameboards reflects our commitment to maintaining the cultural heritage of the Great Victorian Rail Trail. It also enhances the overall experience for both residents and visitors.” said Mayor Cr Steve Rabie. The original station sites featuring the newly installed nameboards are Bonnie Doon, Mansfield, Maindample, Merton and Woodfield.

Ross Vaughan, Chair of the Friends of the GVRT volunteer group says “These signs, in addition to the recently installed wayfinding/directional and interpretative signage along the entire rail trail will build the reputation of the trail as a premium tourist attraction.”

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