Serviceton Railway Station
Erected 1888
About Serviceton Railway Station
Serviceton Railway Station, located on the Melbourne-Adelaide line, was built in 1888 and is a key historical and architectural landmark in Victoria. Designed by Victorian Railways Department architects and constructed by Walter and Morris, the station played a vital role in interstate railway travel.
Historical Significance
- Built at the original Victoria-South Australia border location, which was later adjusted due to a surveying error in 1847.
- Served as a customs checkpoint before Federation, collecting duties on goods transported interstate.
- Contained holding cells for prisoners being transferred between states.
- Reflects Serviceton’s importance as a railway town and turnaround point for state rail services.
- Constructed under the “Octopus Act” of 1884, which funded extensive railway expansion in Victoria.
Architectural Features
- A two-storey neo-Classical polychromatic brick building with symmetrical design.
- A cast iron platform verandah, the largest of its kind.
- Original round-arched openings and polychrome brickwork.
- Basement level once housed customs offices, lamp room, staff quarters, surveyors’ quarters, strong rooms, and holding cells.
- Platform level featured toilets, waiting rooms, refreshment room, ladies waiting room, bar and kitchen, offices, and separate booking offices for Victoria and South Australia.
Internal schematic map
Guided Tours
Tours of Serviceton Railway Station can be arranged, pending volunteer availability.
Contact:13 99 72