Inland Rail supports the Seymour Historical Society to preserve Black Train history

The Seymour and District Historical Society will use funds from Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program to tell the story of the ‘Black Train’, which has stood adjacent to Seymour Railway Station for nearly 60 years.

Image of the Black Train from the Seymour Historical Society

The Black Train, as it’s known to locals, is a preserved D3684 steam locomotive built in 1913 and put on display in J.W Elliot Reserve, Seymour in 1965.

The Seymour and District Historical Society will publish a booklet including the details of the locomotive’s history and technical details, and the story of its acquisition, transportation, clean up and ongoing maintenance.

Established in 1964, the society records the history of the town and surrounds, displays items of significance, conducts historical research and preserves historic sites.

Geoff Halpin, Seymour and District Historical Society, President said:

‘Seymour has a rich railway history and during its heyday the railway employed one third of the population.

‘The Black Train is an important part of that history and train buffs come from all over the state to see it.

‘The new booklet will provide train buffs and visitors the full history and significance of this impressive engine.’

Ed Walker, ARTC Victoria and South Australia Projects General Manager said:

‘We are proud to give back to the communities that are home to Inland Rail. The work these organisations do is instrumental to the wellbeing of regional communities.

‘The latest round of funding takes overall support for local communities and associations along the Inland Rail alignment to nearly $1.1 million since the program launched in 2019.

‘I encourage other non-profit groups to lodge their applications for the next round of funding which is open until Sunday 30 April 2023.’

The Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program offers funding between $1000 and $4000 for individuals and organisations in regional areas along the Inland Rail alignment. The funding supports organisations or individuals that contribute to local and regional prosperity, wellbeing, and sustainability.

Visit the Community Sponsorships and Donations program page for more information or call 1800 732 761 or email ircommunitysponsorships@artc.com.au to check your funding eligibility and to apply. Please include as much information as you can to tell the story of what you want to achieve and how it will benefit your community.