Busselton Jetty and Environment Conservation Association (BJECA) CEO Darryl Green said the resumption of the train was set to coincide with the reopening of the Underwater Observatory.

“The 40-seat jetty train is expected to resume in May. It has been five years since it last carried children with their parents and grandparents on the track, so it is quite exciting,” he said.

“To cater for the expected demand, FTE Engineering are fabricating a new carriage for us, which will see the capacity of the train increase to 50. Once the carriage is completed, testing will be carried out to ensure an additional carriage does not compromise the handling or performance of the train.

“If these tests are successful and if there is sufficient demand, we will consider extending the train to six carriages with a total capacity of 60.

“The work on the jetty is progressing extremely well. Marine and Civil are doing a magnificent job and have thrown additional equipment and labour into the mix to ensure we have the best possible chance of reopening the Underwater Observatory and resuming the train service in May.

“This is less than three months away and whilst there is plenty to do during this time, we are confident that we will be ready to go.

“Marine and Civil will still have plenty of work to do on the jetty after the train service resumes and the opening of the observatory. It is expected that the project will be completed and full access to the very end of the jetty will be possible some time between August and October.

“We are ecstatic that the local fishing fraternity will be allowed to access their favourite spots in less than three months and the jetty will once again be able to make a significant contribution to the local tourism industry.

“The completion of the jetty is only the start though. A refurbished jetty in brand-new condition will enable us to work with the local community to seek advice as to what other facilities and infrastructure they would like to see on it. The possibilities are endless and it is hoped that the community will jump on board and help maximise the potential of the jetty.”