Wollongong Councillor Richard Martin (back) with Mayor Tania Brown and Keira MP Ryan Park with the newly refurbished green train. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
The little green train that’s been a favourite landmark in Corrimal for more than 50 years is back in place, looking greener and better than ever.
After a four-month hiatus, the much-loved loco – known by some locals as the “green frog” – has returned to pride of place in the park near Luke’s Playground.
The train was taken off-site in late July for restoration and a fresh paint job.
The project also included the removal and replacement of rusted steel, to ensure the popular fixture is around for many years to come.
The former South Bulli Colliery No 4 loco was built in England in 1909, originally used to haul coal from the South Bulli Colliery to the Bellambi Point jetty.
It ran until 1967, when it was placed into retirement. A year later the Bellambi Coal Co donated it to the Lions Club of Corrimal for installation in the park.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown said the green train celebrated an important part of the suburb’s history and identity.
“The park hasn’t looked the same since it was craned off for refurbishment,” Cr Brown said.
“I’m sure many locals will be thrilled to see it back in place, and that it looks so fresh and, well, a very bright shade of green. It’s certainly a stark contrast to how it looked before!’’
Keira MP Ryan Park, whose office is down the road from the park, was also pleased to see the train return to Corrimal.
“After a visit to the workshop, our beloved train has returned home to Corrimal. Holding a place in our hearts for the past 50 years, I’m pleased that this icon has been lovingly refurbished and can now steam ahead into its next chapter,’’ he said.
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