Free tram tours prove a hit

MORE than 900 people enjoyed free rides on Bendigo’s vintage trams yesterday, as the Bendigo Tramways celebrated 38 years of the Vintage Talking Tram Tour. The Bendigo Trust, responsible for Bendigo Tramways, was thrilled with the strong interest.Bendigo Trust sales and marketing manager Evonne Oxenham said there were a lot of families with young children among those who made the most of the rides. “We are getting really good feedback,” she said. She said the first service of the Vintage Talking Tram Tour was on December 9, 1972. There was a special commentary yesterday that informed passengers about attractions in Bendigo during the summer holidays. Ms Oxenham said some passengers chose to board at the Central Deborah Gold Mine, and get off at various stops along the way to shop. Ms Oxenham said the day also provided the opportunity for people to sign up for the Bendigo Ambassador Pass, which was relaunched at the beginning of the year. The pass makes it possible for locals visiting local attractions to get free entry if they are with a full paying adult. More than 100 people signed up for the pass yesterday.