Published on Wednesday, 8 November 2023 at 9:21:05 AM
Ownership of the beloved Ruby Tourist Tram has officially changed hands as the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder signs the transfer to the Kalgoorlie Boulder Visitors Centre (KBVC).
The significant donation to the KBVC follows seven months of ownership by the City, whose purchase of a replacement tram and temporary ownership ensured the continuation of the service.
In April, previous operators, the Golden Mile Loopline Railway Society (GMLRS) confirmed their intention to cease the service that same month.
Not wanting to lose the cherished tourist attraction, Council endorsed the purchase of the Ruby tram, a review and revitalisation of the tourist tram experience, hire of a driver and maintaining the asset temporarily until a more permanent solution was found.
Ruby will now be gifted to the not-for-profit organisation, who will be the sole operators and merchants of the tram’s ticket sales.
Mayor Glenn Wilson said the City was pleased to provide the KBVC with this valuable tourism asset.
“The Tourist Tram is a much-loved attraction by visitors and residents alike, and we are pleased the service can continue into the future.”
“The City recognises and values the need for preserving and enhancing our local tourism sector, and the Tourist Tram will be a valuable asset for the KBVC’s operations.”
“This initiative is not just about maintaining an important attraction but rather about creating a dynamic and sustainable tourism product that benefits tourists, tourism stakeholders and our wider community,” he said.
The vehicle, affectionately known as Ruby was purchased by the City in January 2023, replacing her predecessor, which was exceeding budget costs to maintain.
The official handover of the Ruby Tourist Tram will take place at the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club at 12pm, Wednesday 8 November.
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