Christmas has come early for the Katherine community, with the Northern Territory Government delivering two much-loved people-mover trains to join the popular ‘K-Town Express’ Christmas light tour.
After delighting visitors at the Territory Wildlife Park for more than two decades, Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Joshua Burgoyne has gifted the de-commissioned trains to not-for-profit community organisation Katherine Community Projects Association (KCPA).
“These trains have carried hundreds of thousands of guests around the wildlife park. By gifting them to the KCPA, we’re ensuring this piece of Territory history lives on,” said Mr Burgoyne.
“Now, the trains will continue to play a part in our unique Territory lifestyle through events in Katherine, helping create new Christmas traditions and memories for families and visitors.”
The trains were moved by Territory business Katherine Tilt Trays and made their debut last Saturday evening as part of the K-Town Express, which will also run on 20 and 24 December.
Minister for Education and Training and Member for Katherine, Jo Hersey, said the K-Town Express brought joy to the Katherine community each year, giving families something special to share.
“The iconic 1980s Suzuki Stockman train, which will proudly remain part of the K-Town Express, drew huge crowds last year. The addition of these trains will help meet growing demand,” said Mrs Hersey.
“It was great to see so many families and children out and about on Saturday night for the K-Town Express, enjoying the Christmas Lights and riding our new trains.
“Thank you to Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan for enabling the trains to be driven on the roads so kids can experience the Christmas lights in such a fun and unique way.”
Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said that the gift would be a boost to Katherine’s liveability and to local events and the visitor economy.
“These trains have been an iconic part of the Territory Wildlife Park experience for over 35 years, and I’m glad they’ll be given a new lease on life for families and visitors in Katherine for many more years to come,” said Ms Boothby.
KCPA President David Reed said the association was excited to welcome the new additions to its fleet.
“KCPA is committed to ensuring these beloved people-movers have a long and festive second life serving the Katherine community,” said Mr Reed.
“The K-Town Express will be a standout feature of our annual Christmas events and might even make an appearance at our Teddy Bears Picnic next year.”
