The welcome sight of trains running along Willans Hill returned for the first time in six months over the weekend, with the miniature railway trialling its new COVID plan.
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On Sunday, about 30 families became the first to ride the miniature trains at the Botanic Gardens since the beginning of the pandemic, with booking-only private rides available for up to 10 members of a single household.
Wagga Society of Model Engineers vice president Eric Hill said all bookings were quickly filled when they announced the trial run, with families able to book via email or phone.
"Somebody must follow Facebook, because it booked out fairly quick," he said.
A second trial run is scheduled for October 18, and Mr Hill said they were hoping to double the capacity now the volunteers had gotten accustomed to the cleaning and social distancing practices.
"We're definitely trying to do the right thing," he said.
Mr Hill said the society would continue to monitor the government restrictions heading into the summer and stick to their COVID plan.
He said it was fortunate for the club that they were able to get the trains up and running after six months of ongoing maintenance costs and no funds coming in.
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With Sunday seeing sunshine and warm weather, he said it was also great to be back out at the gardens with passers-by excited to see the trains back in action.
"It was a beautiful day and we had hundreds of inquiries while we were there, but unfortunately we couldn't accommodate them," he said.
The society is also hosting a club day on Saturday from 10am to 2pm for those wishing to join as they look for volunteers to help keep the trains running.
Those interested can email info@wwsme.com.au.