Hastings Valley Miniature Railway Society will establish its track there, and operate miniature steam and diesel hauled trains on one day per month and public holidays.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has given approval for the activity.

President Steve Harding said the Society currently owns one steam locomotive and one diesel, and both can pull up to three passenger cars.

“Our track can run trains of either 5 inch or 7¼ inch wheel gauge,” Mr Harding said.

The society previously operated at Timbertown. Since

then much work has been done by members in refurbishing the 360m track and safety fencing.

Work will soon commence to lay track, a turntable, steaming bays and safety fences.

The society is encouraging interested residents to become involved in the project.

“We would also like to recognise assistance from Brendan Lewis of Priest McCarron Solicitors for legal advice, and Herons Creek saw mill in providing timber for new sleepers for railway track,” Mr Harding said. “Now the work really begins!”

The new track will run alomost the full way around Yippin Creek Reserve.

Mr Harding said there would be no hindrance of public access to the reserve’s amenities.

“We hope this will be a great attraction for families for a day out. It’s great fun.”

New members to the club are always welcome, all ages, male and female.

The society holds planning meetings on first Sunday monthly, 2pm Lasiandra Room, Wauchope RSL Club.

For information contact Ray Wilkinson on 6585 5787 or Barry Mew on 6581 5520.