Tourism train plan derailed

Reopening the rail link between Busselton and Bunbury has been suggested as a way to increase tourism and exports in the region.

Busselton resident David McKeating believes upgrading and reopening the railway, which closed in the late 80s, would be beneficial to the growth of Busselton.

He said he believed the railway would open new employment opportunities to the region.

"A lot of people don't like driving long distances, especially older people. You see a lot of crosses on the road and the death toll is only increasing, so anything that can get cars off the road is positive," he said.

"From what I've heard the train used to be well used when it was running and I think anything to create employment and tourism is good.

"I'd like to think farmers would also benefit from exporting their produce to Perth."

A recent report by the Regional Australia Institute titled Cities Beyond Perth said that for Busselton to reach economic success amid the end of the mining boom there needed to be upgrades to transport networks, including a rail network.

But Transport Minister Dean Nalder said there were no plans to reopen the railway.

"There are no current plans to recommission the rail line between Bunbury and Busselton," he said.

"The town of Busselton is well serviced by Transwa coach services. There are 24 trips each week between Busselton and Perth."

South West MLC Adele Farina said she would support the reopening and upgrade of the rail network.

"There is no doubt that successful regional cities have diverse transport networks that include effective rail and air travel services," she said.

"The South West would certainly benefit, socially and economically, from an expanded rail network that includes passenger services.

"I have long been a strong advocate for passenger rail and a Perth to Bunbury fast train. Once it's built its extension to Busselton would be a natural progression.

"In my view, government investment in transport infrastructure, especially rail, is a dollar well spent and would deliver benefits to the region."

Busselton Chamber of Commerce chief executive Ray McMillan said road transport services in Busselton needed to be addressed before embarking on a new rail network.

"In the present climate I don't think it will happen," he said.

"Road transport needs to be improved first."