Over the past 12 years many locals and tourists alike have taken their children or grandchildren to the River Edge Park Miniature Railway.  I remember when my son was younger we would often go down to the playground by the railway and then take a few rounds on the train.  I have such fond memories of sunny days and lots of smiles as the children would enjoy the thrill of something a little different.

Taking my son to the miniature railway here brought back fond memories of riding the miniature railway by the lake in Hamilton, where I grew up.  I remembered how thrilled I used to feel when my parents would let me take a ride!  I loved going through the tunnel, passing the little fences  - how big it all seemed back then... mind you, the Hamilton Lake one really was a lot bigger than the one we have here - but things are about to change.  Over the next 5 years our River Edge Park miniature railway will be getting a lot bigger.  It's going to cost around $150,000 dollars to extend the track to a massive 1.2 kilometres long.

There are about 15 volunteers in all, ranging in age from 50's to mid 80's and although they do earn funds to maintain the tracks, they are in need of more funding to complete this extention.

Mark Clarke, Publicity Officer for the River Edge Park miniature railway says that they are in the process of fundraising for the extensions and would greatly appreciate further assistance with funding.  If you (or someone you know) has any great fundraising ideas, or can help with funding applications, you can contact Mark on 07 3078297 or 021 057 6468.

Article by Kristy Robinson