20 years of AvonLink train service celebrated in Toodyay.

Locals and shire dignitaries attended the celebration at Toodyay train station on September 12.

Moore MLA Shane Love unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion, noting the strong support the National Party has given to the service, including Max Trenorden’s work in establishing and maintaining the service.

David Whiteford launched his book A history of the AvonLink train service at the celebration.

The publication tells the story of the fight to establish the passenger service and retain it over the past 20 years.

Cheryl Wiltshire, chairwoman of the AvonLink supporters group, said the book shows a strong sense of community. “It is a story that shows the benefits of community persistence; the value of having a vision and of leveraging on what you have,” she said.

In 2013, the Public Transport Authority announced the service would be cancelled by the end of the year, but a strong public reaction resulted in a three-year trial with extra funding.

The improved services provide three return journeys on weekdays and one service on Saturdays, with special services for events such as Toodyay Races and Toodyay Show.