Zig Zag Railway viability under a cloud
SAFETY, organisational and financial issues at Lithgow’s Zig Zag Railway may bring about the demise of the famous tourist attraction.
The railway ceased running in June because of safety concerns.
State Transport Minister, Gladys Berejiklian, subsequently commissioned an expert from Transport for New South Wales to help Zig Zag Railway assess its safety management system and advise on remedial action.
Yesterday (Friday) Ms Berejiklian said initial feedback suggests safety, organisation and financial are all affecting the railway’s long-term viability.
“I will consider advice and recommendations from Transport for NSW once they have considered the report in full,” says Ms Berejiklian.
The report comes after an Independent Transport Safety Regulator (ITSR) identified more than 150 instances in which the Zig Zag Railway was deficient in its safety management.
ITSR also found the railway has experienced difficulty carrying out maintenance of its rolling stock.
Messages of support for the railway have been received from steam enthusiasts across Australia and around the world. | 
Regional
