AN inaugural meeting has been held for a newly-created ‘Barossa Tourist Train Taskforce’, convened by Member for Light and Duty Member for Schubert Tony Piccolo.
The meeting, held in Tanunda, was an opportunity for local business and community leaders to learn more about the purpose and work of the taskforce.
Mr Piccolo said the objective of the Barossa Tourist Train Taskforce will be to prepare a draft project brief that would be the basis of an independent inquiry into the viability of a Barossa Valley-focussed tourist train.
According to Mr Piccolo, the independent inquiry would be funded by an incoming State Labor Government.
“The project brief could outline one or more models of a possible tourist train service,” Mr Piccolo said.
“The independent inquiry would investigate a number of matters, including the range of benefits for the Barossa and Gawler region from a tourist train and management and future planning of the Barossa Rail Corridor, Kroemer’s Crossing, Altona Bridge and stations and sidings.
“Other considerations that will be discussed include the train’s congruence with brand Barossa, impacts for local tourism planning and major events and the benefits and impacts on local businesses and other transport providers.”
The taskforce membership consists of key leaders in the areas of tourism, business and community, including Barossa Mayor Bim Lange and Gawler Mayor Karen Redman.
Other members include former long-serving Member for Schubert and soon to retire Regional Development Australia chair Ivan Venning who has long been a strong advocate for the train’s return.
Former planning, transport and infrastructure department chief executive Rod Hook, will represent Chateau Tanunda and bring expertise in major transport project management to the group. Mr Hook also sits on the board of Infrastructure Australia.
National Rail Museum executive officer Bob Sampson will bring more than 40 years of experience in the rail sector.
A range of other business leaders, including Barossa Grape and Wine Association chair Peter Joy, have joined the taskforce, while others are consulting with their representative groups and governing boards to decide if they wish to take a formal part on the taskforce.
The committee secretariat will be managed by the Light Electorate Office and it is anticipated that a further four meetings will be held during 2021, in February, April, June and September.
A project brief would then be submitted to an incoming Labor Government for funding and action.
Any local person or business wishing to make a submission to the taskforce should direct their enquiry to Tony Piccolo’s office (8522 2878).