Victoria Premier Ted Baillieu

Victoria Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder

Royal Tram Launched On Eve Of Queen’s Visit

Victor P Taffa

Melbourne’s new Royal Tram will remain in public operation for the next year in honour of Her Majesty The Queen, Premier Ted Baillieu and Transport Minister Terry Mulder said today.

The Royal Tram will make its inaugural journey carrying her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh down St Kilda Road to Government House tomorrow.

“The Royal Tram – a repainted Z-class – will join Melbourne’s tram network as another great icon of our city.” Mr. Baillieu said.

“Victorians and tourists will be able to ride on The Royal Tram to and from work and to view Melbourne’s many great attractions.”

“Next year marks the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s accession to the throne, and Victorians and visitors will be able to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee year by riding in the same tram on which The Queen travelled during her visit.”

Launching the Royal Tram at Brunswick Tram Depot, Mr. Mulder congratulated Joyleen Smith from Yarra Trams who will be driving the Royal Tram tomorrow.

“Ms. Smith has been a tram driver for seven years based at Brunswick, and tomorrow will be a workday she remembers for a long time.” Mr. Mulder said.

Ms. Smith said she was overwhelmed when told she would be driving the Royal Tram.

“I didn’t know what to say – it’s such a great honour.” Ms. Smith said.

The Royal Tram will travel on single tram routes across Melbourne, including Airport West, Camberwell, Carnegie and East Brighton, so more passengers can enjoy their special experience. Prior to its restoration the tram was in use on the network, and has been refinished as part of an ongoing maintenance and refurbishment program. Yarra Trams provided the tram, which was redesigned locally at no additional cost.

VIC Minister for Public Transport & Roads Terry Mulder