Two separate projects involving old railways have been keeping offenders in the Manawatu region busy, with completion in sight after a tremendous effort from everyone involved.
The restoration of old railway carriages for Feilding Steam and Rail has involved some tedious work at times, but Feilding Steam Chief Russell Wiseman says it’s been a job well done. Various work parties have been working on everything from repairing and painting the carriages to installing new seats.
Top coats will go on in the next couple of months, and once the finishing touches are completed the carriages will be certified and then put into service. Russell has also been impressed with the work done by one offender in particular who was placed on the project through the Community Probation Service agency programme. As a qualified welder, Tony had skills essential to the project, and under the guidance of Probation Officer Ian Kennard, proved himself worthy of the task.
"It's been such a positive experience to be involved in the project which has been running for nearly 10 years," says Russell.
"The community workers have been a great asset and should take pride in the end result." Offenders in Palmerston North have also been busy at work on a railway but on a slightly smaller scale. Work parties have been extending the track on the Esplanade Scenic Miniature Railway, which for a small fee takes passengers on a 20 minute ride through native bush. The extended track was officially opened in November and now extends over four roads and nearly 3km. The extension takes passengers on a loop from the Children’s Playground, and is a popular way to view the more secluded areas.
As well as laying and sealing the track, the workers have built a ramp that links the old track to the new one and provides safe passage over the roads. The project, which is nearing its final stages, has been ongoing for the past 12 months, and has stayed on track due to the dedication of Community Work Supervisors like John Leask.
"While we are still working on the finishing touches, it has been a great result," says Railway President Geoff Hunt. "We are very appreciative of the community workers' involvement and they can be very proud."
Photo 1: Part of the extended track built by offenders for the Esplanade Miniature Railway.
Photo 2: Feilding Steam Chief Russell Wiseman is pleased with the progress offenders have made on restoring the railway carriages.
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ISSN 1178-1327