Ballarat’s Tramway Museum is set to deliver better and more accessible experience, thanks to a $200,000 investment from the Andrews Labor Government.

The Member for Wendouree, Ms Juliana Addison MP today announced funding for upgrades at the museum, through the government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

Ramps and wheelchair access will be installed so everyone can experience riding on an historic tram, and three different audio tours will cater to different ages. One tour will be in Mandarin and two in English.

New display booths will be added for temporary exhibitions, and virtual reality technology will allow visitors to learn more about trams in an immersive and engaging way.

The project will create up to 17 construction jobs, with works to be completed in 2023.

The Ballarat Tramway Museum has been operating for over 50 years and aims to preserve the tramway experience that existed on the streets of Ballarat from 1887 to 1971.

The Regional Tourism Investment Fund is helping entice more visitors to Victoria’s regions, driving private investment and accelerating the recovery of the tourism sector.

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison 

“The Ballarat Tramway Museum is a time capsule of Australian history, and this development will further cement Ballarat’s position as a great regional tourist destination.”

“This investment will help encourage people to spend more and stay longer in the region, which is a big win for Ballarat.”

“Ensuring the Ballarat Tramways Museum is accessible for visitors and making it fun for kids will mean more visitors, more jobs, and more spending at local businesses.”

Quotes attribute to Ballarat Tramways Museum President Paul Mong

“The BTM appreciates this recognition from the State Government for the work we do to preserve the history of tram transport in Ballarat and beyond. Together, with some additional funds provided by the BTM, this grant will allow us to meet community expectations of a modern, contemporary and accessible museum where visitors of all ages are offered a hands on experience which enables them to actively engage with items on display and to enjoy a ride on an historic tram.”

“When this next stage is complete, the BTM will be one of the leading Transport Museums in Australia and attract increasing numbers of local, regional, interstate and international visitors.”