All aboard as Mingenew’s railway station reopens after $350,000 restoration is finally completed

The historic Mingenew Railway Station finally reopened on Friday after the completion of its $350,000 restoration. The 129-year-old station was showing its age and council unanimously decided to give it a revamp and breathe new life into the town’s landmark. The $350,000 bill was fronted by a range of contributors, with Lotterywest providing $123,000, the Australian Government giving $108,000 as part of the Building Better Regions Fund and the Shire contributing $119,000. Mingenew Shire chief executive Matt Fanning said the building would bring more tourism and visitors to the region. “The building is situated in the main area of town, it attracts a lot of attention from tourists and visitors even prior to the restoration,” Mr Fanning said. “The restoration project also assists in maintaining the historical legacy of the Midland Railway and generates economic growth in the Mid West.” The station can also become a hub for many community groups in the area. “The station will be used by several of the local groups for meetings, workshops, get-togethers and events,” Mr Fanning said. “The local arts and crafts group are planning on having their yearly pop-up shop in the station during tourist season.” Built in 1894, Mingenew became the trading centre for all livestock being sent to Perth and the station served as key stop in the Midland Railway Line. The last passenger to leave from the Mingenew station was in 1975.