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Old Helensburgh Station: A Journey Through Time

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Step back in time at the Old Helensburgh Station, explore historic tunnels, and witness the enchanting glow worm colony.

Explore the remnants of the original Helensburgh Station, a historical landmark nestled between two tunnels. Closed in 1915, the site now attracts visitors with its railway heritage and a mesmerizing glow worm colony in the Metropolitan Tunnel.

A brief summary to Old Helensburgh Station

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Helensburgh Station.

  • Bring a torch for exploring the tunnels, but avoid using it in the glow worm area to protect the delicate ecosystem.
  • Wear suitable footwear, like gumboots, to navigate the potentially muddy areas.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience and avoid flooding.
  • Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter and more immersive experience.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Old Helensburgh Station via public transport, take a train on the South Coast Line to Helensburgh Station. From there, walk approximately 1.2 kilometers to the old station. Exit the train station and head east on Walker Street, then turn left onto Parkes Street and follow it until you reach Vera Street. Turn right onto Vera Street, and you will find Old Helensburgh Station at number 2. A single fare on the South Coast Line from Sydney to Helensburgh costs around $6-$9 AUD.

  • Car

    If driving, head towards Helensburgh from any part of Illawarra. Use the M1 Pacific Motorway if coming from the south. Take the Helensburgh exit (exit 36) and follow the signs towards the town center. Once in Helensburgh, turn onto Parkes Street, then take a right onto Vera Street. Old Helensburgh Station will be located at 2 Vera St. Parking is available on the street. Limited short-term parking may be available at the Helensburgh Station car park, a short walk away.

Discover more about Old Helensburgh Station

The Old Helensburgh Station offers a captivating glimpse into the past, located at the junction of Tunnel Road and Vera Street. Established in 1889, the station was uniquely positioned between the 80-meter Helensburgh Tunnel and the 624-meter Metropolitan Tunnel. The station ceased operations in 1915 when the line was duplicated. In 1995, restoration efforts unearthed 22 meters of the original platform, which was subsequently reinstalled with track sections from the Metropolitan Colliery. Today, the site serves as a historical landmark, attracting visitors interested in its rich railway heritage and the nearby glow worm colony. The Metropolitan Tunnel, now known as the Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel, is home to a multitude of bioluminescent glow worms, creating an eerie radiance. The glow worm ecosystem is delicate, and flashlights, flash photography, and drones are prohibited to protect them. It's also advisable to wear gumboots and avoid visiting during heavy rainfall due to potential flooding. Some visitors have reported paranormal experiences within the tunnels. Helensburgh Landcare is actively involved in preserving the site. In March 2019, a new reserve was established, including the two old tunnels and the railway station car park, for passive recreation, heritage purposes, and environmental protection.

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