Work began this week to replace sections of the Granite Island rail track used by Victor Harbor’s iconic horse drawn tram.

Tram services have been closed until 13 May to facilitate the work.

The City of Victor Harbor will replace two sections of rail identified as a high priority.

This includes 85m of rail and sleeper near the beginning of the track on Granite Island and 160m of rail and sleeper opposite the Penguin Interpretive Centre.

The council says the rail has naturally deteriorated over time and preservation work to maintain it is no longer sufficient.

It says complete replacement is necessary in some areas to ensure longevity of the rail into the future.

“Council has been working closely with representatives from the Friends of Granite Island Group and Flinders University to schedule these track works at a time that mitigates impacts on the fragile Little Penguin colony.” 

The work will cause continued disruption to horse tram operations when they resume on 14 May, with a modified route that stops at the end of the causeway.

Pedestrians retain access to the island, but exclusion zones will apply to ensure safety.

A budget of $350,000 has been allocated to the rail replacement project.

The work is expected to be completed in June 2022, subject to any unexpected delays.

For more information about this project visit the City of Victor Harbor website.