BENDIGO TRAMWAYS

Bendigo Tramways

Take a journey back in time to rediscover the magic of tram travel aboard the iconic Vintage Talking Tram. Operated by Bendigo Tramways, this experience has firmly established itself as one of Bendigo’s must-do experiences. It’s the ideal way for visitors to get their bearings, discover the many landmarks and monuments of Bendigo, and learn about the rich and colourful history of this evolving city. Climb aboard one of their fleet of historic traditional trams, some of which have been servicing the city’s transport needs for over one hundred years. Rattle and roll your way through Bendigo’s streets as you listen to informative audio commentary providing fascinating insights into the century-long history of these trams, and the city’s evolution from gold rush fields to progressive modern-day metropolis.

The Vintage Talking Tram tour can be joined from iconic Bendigo locations including The Joss House Temple, Lake Weeroona, Charring Cross, and the Central Deborah Gold Mine. Tickets are valid for one day, with the handy option to hop on and hop off to explore this intriguing city at your own pace. Alternatively, a continuous loop of the tram circuit will take approximately 45 minutes, making it the perfect option for those short on time. The service operates daily, and dogs are welcomed onboard.

Historic Significance

Trams have long held a special place in the lives and hearts of the people of Bendigo. From the city’s heady gold rush days, through decades of providing public transport to local citizens and their present role as tourism icons, Bendigo Tramways is steeped in over one hundred years of fascinating history. The Vintage Talking Tram brings this history to life as you rumble along the city streets in an authentic restored heritage tram. Climb aboard and take a seat where the people of Bendigo have sat and travelled for over one hundred years.

Battery-powered trams were first introduced to Bendigo in 1890, representing cutting edge technology for their time. However, these were soon replaced by steam-powered models, which were better equipped to handle the hilly terrain of the city, providing a reliable means of transport through the next decade to the turn of the century. Electric trams were introduced in 1903, and quickly became integral to the city’s expansion, providing a convenient means of transport for commuters, parcels, and post. After struggling through the challenges of wartime and given the growing popularity of automobiles, Bendigo Tramways finally ceased operations as a public transport commuter service in 1972, heralding an emotional end of an era in the city’s streetscape.

After a heated battle for ownership, and with strong community support for the continued preservation of the city’s tram network, the fleet of trams were finally recommissioned for use in their current role. Today, Bendigo Tramways are proud to operate Australia’s largest tourist tramway, boasting the best working collection of heritage trams in the world. Bendigo Tramways welcomes over 40,000 visitors annually, including distinguished guests such as His Royal Highness Prince Charles in 1974.

Explore the City

The Vintage Talking Tram tour allows you to discover Bendigo at your own pace, with the flexible option to hop on and hop off at stops along the tram line throughout the day. Tram stations enroute are within walking distance of many of Bendigo’s parks, attractions, shopping and dining precincts, offering a convenient and novel way to familiarise yourself with all that’s on offer.

For example, at Central Deborah Gold Mine, you can explore the hidden underground tunnels of an authentic gold mine which operated during the city’s gold rush boom in the 1900s, or whet your whistle at popular local pub, The National Hotel. At Tram Stop 4 you can disembark to enjoy a leisurely stroll around beautiful Lake Weeroona, or check out the famous homemade Italian gelato from Favourite Flavours, within just 2 minutes’ walk. Enjoy a picnic by the lake with fish and chips from Micks Fish, or sample seasonal fresh and funky food from The Boardwalk.

Further down the line, explore the history and beliefs of the early Chinese migrants to the area at the heritage-listed Joss House Temple, or explore the market garden and art studios of Peppergreen Farm, a social enterprise tourism and training precinct.

Explore this vibrant city and discover Bendigo Tramways pivotal role in its development, with a journey aboard the Vintage Talking Tram!

Accessibility

The audio commentary provided on this tour provides information and insights for all visitors, including those with no or low vision.

However, visitors with limited mobility should note the following. Due to their historic nature, not all trams are wheelchair friendly. Those requiring wheelchair access are invited to phone (03) 5442 2821 to provide advance notice of their intent to travel, so that a suitable tram can be arranged on the day of visit.