Although well-travelled around Australia, Saint Kilda baby Geoff “Coxy” Cox could barely contain his delight at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane’s newest additions:
Two Melbourne-themed holiday apartments each comprising a refurbished 1930s W Class rattler ‘stationed’ at an enclosed ‘platform’.
Coxy was thrilled to ‘cut the ribbon’ on the park’s new bright digs painted in heritage colours just in time for BIG4 Yarra Vally Park’s 30th Anniversary.
All aboard!
To build this very special commemorative accommodation, Park Lane responded to VicTrack’ public call for submissions to bid on retired tram stock at the Newport Railway Workshops.
Project Manager Luke Hellings co-ordinated the acquisitions, proving to VicTracks that the Yarra Valley park would treat the community treasures with the care they deserved.
“We had to prove we could protect the roof. Originally, they [VicTrack] wanted us to store the trams undercover but we were able to convince them we could protect them with fibreglass,” Luke explains.
“Bendigo Trams installed the fibreglass roof and resprayed the tram in heritage colours.”
Heritage colours throughout
Incorporating the enclosed platform into the plans provided enough room to comfortably accommodate up to eight guests–ideal for two families or a family travelling with grandparents.
Three ensuite bedrooms contain a king and queen bed and two sets of bunks. Internal comforts include a 75in TV and a European laundry.
There’s an enclosed deck with a BBQ, private outdoor wood-fired hot tub overlooking the Yarra Valley. “We tried to keep that same [tram] feel inside.”
“I replicated all the heritage colours and the stained timber work throughout. We kept the internal driver cabin door and the old signage.”
Lots to do
The tram apartments provide the perfect excuse to celebrate Melbourne, as a local or host welcoming guests from abroad.
BIG4 Park Lane Yarra Valley is just minutes from the beautiful Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary and close to some of Victoria’s finest gourmet experiences.
The stunning bush park has a creek trickling through it, a heated pool, jumping pillows, a communal campfire and more. Visit BIG4 Park Lane Yarra Valley is now taking bookings.