Full steam ahead: New model railway display brings Corrigin’s rich rail history back to life at museum exhibit

The sound of trains may no longer echo through Corrigin, but a new project at the town’s museum is set to bring the railway era back to life. Volunteers at the Corrigin Historical Society have begun construction on a detailed model railway display recreating the Corrigin railway precinct as it appeared during its peak in the 1950s, preserving a piece of local history that helped shape the district to educate future generations. Corrigin Historical Society president Ken Baldwin said the railway was central to the town’s growth and identity. “The railway was fundamental to Corrigin’s development,” he said. “It provided the transport link that allowed grain, fertiliser, livestock, general freight and passengers to move to and from the district and connected local people with the rest of WA. “For many years the railway was one of the town’s largest employers and the station precinct was a focal point of community activity.” Rail links steadily expanded through the district during the early 20th century with the Narrogin to Wickepin line opening in 1909, the Wickepin to Corrigin line opening in 1924 and operating until 2014, and the Brookton to Corrigin line opening in 1915 before closing in 1957. Mr Baldwin said the project grew from both personal experience and a desire to make history more engaging. Having worked as assistant station master in Corrigin between 1976 and 1980 during a long railway career, he wanted to highlight the importance of rails after becoming president of the museum. “The museum has a lot of static displays,” he said. “I wanted to have a moving exhibit.” Visits to museums in Narrogin and Collie sparked inspiration but the opportunity truly arrived when former railway modeller Ray Cooper, who had connections to Corrigin, offered part of his own layout as he prepared to dismantle it. The display will recreate the Corrigin yard as accurately as possible, including the original island station that was destroyed by fire in 1965. Construction began last week and is being carried out by volunteers from the Model Club, alongside Mr Cooper and Ian Sullivan. Mr Baldwin said the project was about more than nostalgia. “For older residents, the display will bring back memories of a time when the railway was central to everyday life,” he said. “For younger generations, it provides an opportunity to understand how previous generations lived and worked. “The model will become an important educational resource for school groups, visitors and future generations, ensuring that the story of Corrigin’s railway heritage is not lost.” The society hopes to have the initial stage completed by September, although the model will continue to evolve as more detail is added over time ensuring Corrigin’s railway story remains on track for future generations.