By Laura Michell
Hundreds of people flocked to Mernda station yesterday to take a sneak look at the new train station ahead of its official opening this Sunday.
The three new stations on the Mernda rail extension – Mernda, Hawkstowe and Middle Gorge – were opened to the public for three hours yesterday as part of a community day to celebrate the return of train services to Mernda.
Free shuttle trains ran between South Morang and Mernda, giving locals a chance to experience the new rail track for themselves.
The first official train will depart Mernda station on Sunday morning, bringing an end to years of community campaigning.
It will be the first official train to leave Mernda since the former Whittlesea line was decommissioned in 1959.
South Morang and Mernda Rail Alliance spokesman Darren Peters said the return of trains to Mernda was cause for celebration.
“The Mernda rail open day was a truly joyous moment for the whole community, who against the odds, won $650 million from the state government to build the railway immediately instead of 2032,” he said.
“It made me so happy to see thousands of local residents enjoying the atmosphere and smiles filling the carriages from Mernda to South Morang. Thank you to everyone who supported our campaign, it’s time to celebrate.”
Yan Yean MP Danielle Green said the rail extension had become a reality because of the community.
“A strong and active community group is the best friend that a member of Parliament can have.
“I also want to thank the members of the community reference group who have represented the interests of the community along the way.”
