Cootamundra West railway station facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Cootamundra West
Location	Cootamundra New South Wales, Australia
Coordinates	34°37′52″S 148°02′05″E / 34.6310°S 148.0348°E / -34.6310; 148.0348
Owned by	Transport Asset Holding Entity
Line(s)	Lake Cargelligo branch line
History
Opened	1911
Closed	1983

The Cootamundra West railway station is an old train station in Cootamundra, New South Wales, Australia. It is on the Lake Cargelligo line. This station is special because it is "heritage-listed." This means it is an important historical building that is protected. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999.

History of the Station

This train station first opened in 1911. It was built to serve the town of Cootamundra. However, it did not stay open for passengers for very long. Passenger trains stopped using the station in 1983. Even though people no longer catch trains from here, the railway line itself is still used. Freight trains, which carry goods, continue to use the tracks that pass by the old station.

What the Station Looks Like

The station building is quite impressive. It has two stories and is made of brick. It was built in 1911. There is also a brick platform where passengers would wait for trains. The station complex also included a former refreshment room. This was a place where travelers could buy food and drinks. Today, the building is still in good condition.

Why Cootamundra West Station is Special

Cootamundra West is considered a very important station building. It was originally planned to be a major stop. However, the main southern railway line changed its route. This meant the Cootamundra West station was not needed for passenger trains as much as first thought.

An Edwardian Treasure

The station is a great example of buildings from the Edwardian period. This was a time in history (around the early 1900s) when railways were very important. Many beautiful and strong railway buildings were constructed then. It's interesting because the station became less important for its original purpose not long after it was built.

An Important Part of the Town

The station buildings are a strong and noticeable part of the Cootamundra town. They are very important to the history of how railways were built in New South Wales. Even after it stopped being a main passenger station, the building was used for many years as offices.

Heritage Listing Details

Cootamundra West railway station was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999. It met several important rules to be listed. For example, it is considered rare in different ways:

• Historically rare: It shows a unique part of history.
• Scientifically rare: It has special features that are uncommon.
• Architecturally rare: Its design and construction are unique.
• Socially rare: It holds a special place in the community's memory.