The Prospector train that connects Perth and Kalgoorlie has marked its 50th anniversary with a new competition that will give five people the opportunity to win a free double return trip on the train.
Minister for Transport, Rita Saffioti said the Prospector service began on 29 November 1971 and was the fastest trip with the largest railcars in Australia at the time.
“Advertised as ‘sleek, shiny, fast and luxurious’ with the ‘very best in comfort and service’, the train set new standards in regional rail travel in the ’70s, replacing the previous overnight sleeper service and cutting travel time from 14 to eight hours,” Ms Saffioti said.
She said major renovation works were also planned at Kalgoorlie Station, the end point of the Prospector’s journey through the outback.
“This includes remedial heritage stonework and air drains around the base of the station to combat rising damp,” Ms Saffioti said.
“The metal platform canopy and gutters will be replaced and wooden posts repaired and painted, with the work supervised by a specialist heritage architect.”
The Minister said work was also under way to further improve the Prospector experience by delivering Wi-Fi on board for the first time.
“This 12-month trial, on track to commence in early 2022, will allow passengers to remain connected as they travel through some of the most remote regions in Australia,” Ms Saffioti said.
