The review of certain heritage sites by Officers of the Moorabool Shire has raised a number of timely questions. Specifically, their current status and use. The historical train turntable (Circa 1887) situated northeast of the main Railway Station building is a good example.
Improvements to the Melbourne-Ballarat rail line and a significant upgrade to the Bacchus Marsh Railway Station placed a number of rail heritage structures at risk. These being the Station building, wooden clad signal box, railway warehouse and train turntable.
Turntable Survives the Upgrade
All seem to have survived – but for how long? Does the turntable still work? In years past, restored steam locomotives made day trips from Melbourne to Bacchus Marsh. To return they used the turntable to realign the engine.
Train Turntable at Bacchus Marsh Railway Station, February 2021. Maddingley Park in background.
Courtesy of the Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society Inc.
The good news is that it appears that lines have been laid to align with the old turntable and special gates installed for the walkways.
Train lines on Melbourne side, leading into Turntable at Bacchus Marsh Railway Station, February 2021. Railway Warehouse in background right.
Courtesy of the Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society Inc.
What stories do you know about the turntable?
That begs the question – do steam locomotives still use the turntable? Does anyone know? Do you have any photos or stories about it being used? If so we would like to hear from you on our Facebook page. Help us rediscover and celebrate our local heritage.