The Silver Spike refers to the traditional method of laying rail track. Queensland Rail, in celebrating more than 145 years of rail history dating back to the bygone era of manual tracklaying, started a competition more than 20 years ago.
‘Silver Spike Teams’ compete to see which team can lay a 13m length of track in the fastest time.
Three members of the current champion team were at Highfields Pioneer Village recently to put down rail track in front of the historic Gore Railway Station which was moved from near Inglewood and now resides at the Village.
Once the railway line is in place, Highfields Pioneer Village Volunteers will start restoring two old QR track inspection cars, a Level Crossing and a set of very old iron railway gates of historical significance. Thanks to the Silver Spike Team the track will be completed in time for the upcoming Australia Day Celebrations at the Village on Saturday the 26th January 2013 for the enjoyment of the visitors.
This is an opportunity to remind the community that the Highfields Pioneer Village is a not for profit group totally manned by volunteers dedicated to preserving the history of the Darling Downs for future generations. Entry fees: $8 per adult; $6 concession; $20 per family of two adults and four children.
The Village is open 7 days a week from 10am – 4pm except Christmas Day at 73 Wirraglen Road, Highfields. Please phone 07 4696 6309 for more information.
Submitted by:
Jody Dodds
Treasurer
Highfields Pioneer Village, Museum and Park Inc.
