Junee’s railway history is being complemented by a resident following the addition of an operation steam train in town.
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Peter Neve OAM has set up his personal steam train on his property in Junee after moving from Sydney last year.
The rail enthusiast has been involved with trains for the last 25 years and has had a passion for them since he was young.
Mr Neve was awarded his OAM for service to the preservation of Australian rail heritage.
Currently the track is about 20 metres long but will soon be expanded to 500 metres after council approved the plans.
It took more than 12 months of negotiation for the development application to be approved.
“Council had a few concerns but I’m hoping when it’s up and running those concerns will be alleviated,” Mr Neve said.
With council approval came restrictions. This includes not being able to take passengers and strict operational times.
Mr Neve said the general public are not allowed on his property while the train is in operation but hopes people will get some joy from seeing the train in action.
“Under the national rail safety law I am not allowed to have public in,” he said.
“The paperwork (to be able to offer rides) is the size of an encylopedia Britanica.”
When the track is complete it will run along his fence on Wardle Street for about 100 metres.
Mr Neve hopes his track will be complete by the Rhythm and Rail Festival next year.
There are plenty of volunteers helping Mr Neve with his hobby railway but more are welcome to join.
For more information contact Mr Neve via his website http://www.peteshobbyrailway.club.