Connectivity, especially to larger centres and major cities, is key to a thriving region – and improving public transport to offer train services to Wimmera people can only benefit our towns and our people.

V-Line’s existing bus service is a benefit – but it is not enough. People are forced to drive to Ararat or Ballarat if they want the convenience of a train. Even then, at least an hour of driving is required – and, further, the train scheduling to Melbourne from these towns is often restricted.

The distance of our rural city from Melbourne means residents are realistic in how we can access these towns – and the services they offer. That’s travel. Many people travel frequently between Horsham and Ballarat – especially to access specialised healthcare. Our young people know that university study will likely require moving to a new town and either their own or public transport to transverse between home and where they choose to settle. 

It’s fantastic to see eight of our councils working together for a project for the betterment of our entire region.  Horsham mayor Pam Clarke isn’t exaggerating when she says rail to Horsham would be “life-changing”. 

The mammoth challenge that now faces our council representatives is gaining attention from the government – and then there’s issue of funding.

Ararat mayor Paul Hooper is absolutely right – a cost of $369 million for the entirety of the project is small biscuits in the scheme of the state’s public transport costs. 

But it’s big biscuits to find when competing against other regional centres all wanting a piece of the pie.  

We only have to look at our regional cousins in Warrnambool and Albury to find sub-par train services desperately needing upgrades. These towns already have the infrastructure and the demand – but their rolling stock is dated and unreliable. 

Therefore, the council alliance’s plan needs all the support it can get.

It’s important the politicians who have the power to ultimately dish the cash not only understand why this service is needed – they need to know people will use it. 

If you believe in this project, make sure your voice is heard. The loudest voice often has the power to create change. 

Jessica Grimble, editor