Did you ever wonder about these tracks? Right here before us lie the Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks a piece of Brisbane’s history. These aren’t just any old tracks. They are a significant part of the city’s past. They tell a story spanning decades from horse-drawn trams to the modern era.
The Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks weren’t always there. Before 1948 earlier tracks existed. They belonged to the Belmont Tramway built in 1912 by the Belmont Shire Council. The Belmont Tramway was a narrow-gauge steam-powered system. It served a sparsely populated area. It aimed to boost suburban development. However it was short-lived closing in 1924. Its rails were removed in 1935.
But the story doesn’t end there. The Brisbane City Council saw the need for transport in growing suburbs. They built the Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks in 1948. These tracks became part of Brisbane’s larger tramway network. They replaced a section of the old Belmont Tramway’s route. The tracks were built to a standard gauge using 80-pound rails set in mass concrete. This innovative construction was pioneered by the Brisbane City Council. It was known for its durability and required less maintenance. This is a detail often missed by casual observers.
The Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks remained in operation until 1969. This was the year the entire Brisbane tramway system was closed. Many factors contributed to the closure. Urban sprawl increased car ownership and a shift in transport priorities played major roles. The Paddington tram depot fire in 1962 further impacted the city’s decision. The loss of trams and the subsequent replacement with buses marked a turning point.
Today the Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks stand as a testament to Brisbane’s past. They stretch for about 625 meters along Old Cleveland Road. They are a double line embedded in a concrete pavement. A grassed verge lines either side. Small trees and shrubs add a touch of greenery. These tracks were added to the Queensland Heritage Register on March 24 2000. They represent a rare surviving section of Brisbane’s tramway system. They are a tangible link to the city’s evolution. Their survival is a testament to their unique historical significance. Take a moment to appreciate this piece of Brisbane’s rich past. These Old Cleveland Road Tramway Tracks tell a silent story. A story of innovation growth and change. A story only Brisbane can tell.