A community organisation dedicated to keeping Buderim’s heritage alive is steaming ahead into its 20th year.
In 2003, a steering committee of eight Buderim residents met to establish the Buderim-Palmwoods Heritage Tramway Inc (BPHTI).
On the suggestion of then Maroochy shire councillors, the group considered establishing a permanent walking track along the route of the old Buderim to Palmwoods tramway, which closed in 1935. This also led to the discovery in 2004 of the original Krauss locomotive, which ran on the line, and its return to Buderim for restoration and display.
Funds for the purchase of the loco were provided by the Maroochy shire council at the time.
As well as the development of the walking track into a very popular local attraction and the restoration of the Krauss loco, BPHTI has undertaken various infrastructure and educational projects, and held book launches, guided tramway walks and talks for the community and local school groups.
“It was the bravado and determination of a small group of Buderim locals to whom we owe thanks for laying the foundations for our success,” BPHTI president Helene Cronin says.
“We also thank our wonderful members and loyal supporters who have stayed the distance and will now be involved in our biggest challenge in raising the capital to construct the display for the Krauss loco next to the Old Post Office and to bring the Krauss back home to Buderim.”
For more information, visit buderim.com/tramway.
