Published on Wednesday, 6 November 2024 at 3:27:07 PM
MEDIA RELEASE
Narrogin Locomotive PM706 Returns to its Forever Home
The Shire of Narrogin is thrilled to announce the arrival of Narrogin’s beloved Pm706 locomotive back to its forever home at the Historic Goods Shed. The successful return of PM706 represents the culmination of over 35 years of dedicated community efforts, finally bringing this treasured piece of Narrogin’s history home.
Shire President Leigh Ballard expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Narrogin community, whose enduring commitment and passion have driven this project forward. "The return of Pm706 to Narrogin’s Historic Goods Shed is a momentous occasion. Our community’s unwavering belief in this vision, over so many years, has finally made this day a reality. I would like to personally thank WA Specialised Transport for their efficient and safe delivery, as well as every community member who has stood by this dream and supported its journey."
This achievement would not have been possible without the vital contributions of our sponsors. Special thanks go to our major sponsor, the Shire of Narrogin, alongside our esteemed gold sponsors: Narrogin Earthmoving & Concrete, Leigh & Sara Ballard and Family, Craig and Di Prideaux, and the Narrogin Restoration Group. We also gratefully acknowledge our silver sponsors: Roy & Carissa George, Fisher Financial Group, and Great Southern Fuels. Their generosity and belief in this project have been instrumental in bringing Pm706 back home.
The Shire also extends sincere appreciation to John Warburton, the Shire’s Manager Operations, and the Shire Works Crew, whose dedicated efforts alongside Arc Infrastructure’s support ensured the safe return of the PM706. Additional thanks go to Executive Manager Technical & Rural Services, Torre Evans, whose guidance and support were invaluable in coordinating this complex endeavour. We are also grateful to the Hotham Valley Tourist Rail Group for their crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe journey for this iconic locomotive.
Until the restoration of the Historic Goods Shed is completed, anticipated by March 2025, Pm706 will be kept under cover and preserved to protect its storied heritage. Once the restoration project is complete, the Shire will be engaging the community in a second phase: a restoration initiative for PM706 itself, allowing Narrogin residents and enthusiasts to be a part of preserving this remarkable piece of history for generations to come.
President Ballard added “This is a historic milestone for Narrogin, a celebration of community spirit, and a testament to the power of shared dedication. We look forward to continuing this journey together, honouring Narrogin’s rich heritage through the preservation and revitalisation of Pm706”.
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Shire of Narrogin
PO Box 1145
Narrogin WA 6312
Email: enquiries@narrogin.wa.gov.au
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