A special memorial service will be held on Friday 18 January 2019 to recognise 42 years since the Granville Train Disaster.
At 8.10am on 18 January 1977 a crowded commuter train derailed, killing 84 people in the worst railway disaster in Australian history.
Cumberland Council Mayor Greg Cummings invites people to remember those affected by the tragedy and the efforts of those who undertook the rescue over two long nights.
“The memorial service is an opportunity to remember in a special way the 84 men, women and children who died and publicly honour those who risked their own lives to help,” said Mayor Cummings.
“Life was different after the Granville Train Disaster. At the state level we saw the introduction of improved safety regulation and the modernisation of the railway.
“But the biggest changes were felt in people’s personal lives. For many survivors life now exists in two distinct phases: before the Granville train disaster and after.
“As a Council we are committed to ensuring that the memory of this day lives on which is why Council approved a grant of $10,000 for this year’s memorial event.”
A full service will be held including the giving of speeches and laying of wreaths with attendance by Cumberland Councillors and:
- The Hon. Julia Finn MP, Member for Granville
- The Hon. Geoff Lee MP, Member for Parramatta
- Tony Eid, Acting CEO Sydney Trains
- City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Andrew Wilson
When: Friday 18 January 2019
Where: Granville Town Hall, 10 Carlton Street, Granville.
Program:
9.45am: Guests arrive for 10am commencement
10 – 11am: Memorial Service proceedings at Granville Town Hall
11am: Guests move to Memorial Wall for laying of wreaths
11.45am: Movement to Bold Street Bridge and scattering of roses onto the tracks
12pm: Return to Granville Town Hall for light refreshments
Media are invited to attend. Please contact 0408 237 582 or 0412 479 213.
