Upgrade Evolution

In 2008 a design and construction contract was let for a Roundhouse to replace the existing workshop and relocate the train operations to the southern end of the site.

The Roundhouse was opened in November 2009 and provides a new workshop for maintenance, restoration and ongoing management of the Government’s heritage rolling stock. In addition, it provides the opportunity for visitors to experience and view the maintenance and conservation of the heritage fleet. The impressive Roundhouse features seven roads facing the Great Train Hall, allowing visitors to experience the drama of the turntable in action.

In 2008 design work commenced for the new multi-function exhibition and link building, landscape design and exhibition design. The architects, Jackson Teece, designed an industrial-style building reflecting some features of historic railway buildings in a very modern way and with components that make the site more sustainably responsible. The project boasts a variety of initiatives over a range of areas of concern for sustainability, including natural ventilation for the exhibition building to reduce energy consumption, an under-floor hydronic heating/cooling system and significant re-use of rainwater with the installation of two 100,000 litre tanks which will supply water for the flushing of toilets, irrigation and wash-down.

Robson Civil Projects and Stephen Edwards Constructions commenced the final stage construction in December 2009.

The exhibition building is based on the design of a grand platform, providing view of the exhibits, the operational yard and activities.The Main Exhibition Building has a split level that provides platform and ground-level viewing. Along the eastern side of the building is a platform where trains from Sydney can drive right into the complex allowing visitors to alight from the train directly into the building for special events.

The Main Exhibition Building showcases some of the finest examples from the collection, including the Prison Van and the Governor General’s carriage from the Powerhouse Museum. HPA Projects were engaged to design and fit-out the exhibition. The site is extensive and the design aimed to achieve cohesion between the heritage station precinct, the Main Exhibition Building, the Great Train Hall, the Roundhouse and other dispersed elements. The building blocks of the journey are objects, stories, images, text and media presenting a series of experiences and information.

Linking the new building to the existing display hall will be a covered walkway with more rolling stock, including the 6040 Garratt, a representative of the largest steam locomotives in the southern hemisphere. Known as the Workers' Walk, it will also highlight the roles and responsibilities of the people who build and operate the railways.

There is a retail area, café, small theatre, children’s areas and function spaces, allowing a much greater public use of the facility and site. The open landscape and multi-function indoor spaces create unique venues for corporate and community functions and events.