Southern Aurora Memorial Walk

Southern Aurora Memorial Walk created by Sean Mathews

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Summary

Visit the Southern Aurora Memorial Garden commemorating the tragic 1969 rail accident on the outskirts of town. Walk to the crash site to learn more and reimagine the trauma and heroics of the day.

Description

Violet Town has many things to offer the visiting local or tourist. High on the list of features worth engaging with are The Southern Aurora Memorial Garden next to Violet Town Railway Station and the actual crash site. Spend time reflecting on one of Australia's worst railway disasters, a deadly collision between the iconic interstate Southern Aurora passenger train and a goods train. The crash site is just a short walk down the line.

In the Garden absorb fascinating stories and facts from informative signage. Inspect one of the original Southern Aurora sleeping cars. Admire the evocative murals. The information shared has been meticulously curated.

An easy and pleasant 3km loop will take you along both sides of the railway line to and from the location where that dramatic and terrible day unfolded. Learn more at the crash site where photographic plates mark views of the scene from various photographer's points of view.

The Southern Aurora Commemorative Committee and Strathbogie Shire Council have produced something special here. Plans for further renovation of the on site and original Southern Aurora sleeper car will only make things better. You can make a cash donation on site.

For other Violet Town offerings check out the following links:
Violet Town Heritage Walk
Shadforth Reserve Walk
The Old Weir Walk
Mt Wombat Lookout walk

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Points of Interest

1. Southern Aurora Memorial Gardens

The site has developed into a pretty indigenous memorial garden. The informative signage is comprehensive. There is a BBQ shelter with seating and potable water.

2. Comprehensive interpretive signage

The extensive curation of information about the rail service and the accident itself will fascinate railway enthusiasts and the general public alike.

3. An original Southern Aurora sleeping car

The presence of this rail car adds gravitas to the site. You can make a donation at the picnic shelter towards ist further renovation.

4. Crash scene panels

Other large scale art panels provide an empathetic rendering of the scenes at the crash site nearby.

5. Southern Aurora mural

There is a n excellent depiction of the train as it was in its heyday.

6. Lily Street

Walking along Lily St to the crash site is easy. There is little traffic and plenty of room off the bitumen, but no footpath.

7. Crash site signage

Excellent informational signage surrounds the crash site to include original photographs of the scene from each photographer's viewpoint. This is a very effective way to observe the scene.

8. Crash site memorial

You can take a seat at the crash site where there is a plaque memorial granite boulder and planting.

9. Primrose Street

Return from the crash site along the opposite side of the railway to view some heritage buildings as you go. This is a dirt road that can be muddy. If wet it may be better to return the way you came.

10. Public art

En route you can take up the role of temporary art critic.

11. Violet Town Heritage

There are some excellent examples of heritage architecture in Violet Town. If you want to experience the Violet Town Heritage Walk click on the link in this walk's description.

12. The Melbourne to Sydney Railway

As you walk, your chances of seeing action on one of the main railway lines in the country are good.

13. Violet Town Railway Station

Public transport access is right next to the Garden. You can catch the train to spend time enjoying this and the other offerings of the town.

14. Cowslip Street Shopping Strip

Violet Town shopping strip caters for most of the needs of the visiting traveller. The Lion's Park Public Facilities are next to the Pub at the opposite end to the Memorial Garden.