Old steam train, Dimboola

The railway played a central role in the development and the prosperity of Dimboola. A major change-over point for the train crews was established in the town. Many of the people who maintained the trains and the railway lines lived in the town.

To celebrate the central role of the railway in the development of Dimboola, the VRI decided to purchase a train. The train was paid for by public subscription and was purchased in 1974. The J539 was an oil-burning locomotive, built in Lancashire, England in 1954.

A massive working-bee involving all sections of the community moved the train from adjacent to Park St to the present site. Rail sections were moved from behind to the front of the loco as it travelled along the streets of the town to Apex Park. This was achieved on 17 August 1975.