Government has convened a stakeholder roundtable for February 2026 to address the long-term viability of the West Coast Wilderness Railway. Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said the session will focus on securing stability for the asset after engineering concerns on a major bridge forced the suspension of some services.
While a new rainforest journey has launched from Strahan – Vincent confirmed that government and industry must now collaborate on a strategic plan to protect the railway’s economic contribution to the region.
Media release – Kerry Vincent MLC, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport; Jane Howlett MHA, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, 24 December 2025
West Coast Wilderness Railway roundtable
The Tasmanian Government is embarking on long-term planning and stakeholder engagement to ensure a sustainable future for the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
Key industry and business stakeholders will come together with Government in February 2026 to discuss key issues and next steps for the Railway.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent, said the Railway remains vital infrastructure for the West Coast.
“The West Coast Wilderness Railway generates significant economic benefits for Queenstown, Strahan and the broader West Coast region,” Vincent said.
“It is important that Government and industry work together to safeguard long-term growth and stability for this important tourism business.”
The Railway recently carried out detailed engineering inspections of one of the major bridges on the section of line between Strahan and Lower Landing.
“Based on engineering advice, the Railway made the decision to pause passenger operations across the bridge, impacting the Teepookana & The King journey out of Strahan, pending completion of further testing on the bridge,” Vincent said.
“Commencing on 27 December, a new 1.5 hour short return journey will begin from Strahan. The new Cryptic Falls Express takes visitors around Macquarie Harbour and inland to the rainforest at Cryptic Falls.
“We thank the Railway for bringing this new product online so quickly, and are committed to working with key stakeholders to ensure a strong future for the railway.”
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, said that the Railway was an iconic Tasmanian attraction.
“The railway’s rich cultural heritage and artistic innovation were recently recognised through its acceptance into the prestigious Cultural Attractions of Australia collective,” Howlett said.
“It draws visitors to the region and will remain a vital attraction for the beautiful West Coast.”
Tourism Industry Council CEO Amy Hills said the industry had been advocating for a long-term sustainable future for the railway for many years.
“Now is the right time to bring together tourism leaders, with representatives from local, state and federal governments to collaboratively safeguard its future.”
“The West Coast plays a critical role in the state’s visitor economy, and with the next iconic walk also being planned, a longer-term, strategic view was needed for this important tourism asset and the broader region.”
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