In its latest annual report, Emerald Tourist Railway Board recorded a massive hit in the 2019-20 financial year from total fire ban days and the fact it could not receive any income from March 23.Puffing Billy carried 158,130 less people than the year before and total patronage fell down to 329,118, its lowest result since 2012.The Andrews Government provided $2 million in funding to see the business through this period, with discussions about additional support also flagged.“Further short to medium term funding options continue to be considered by the State Government,” the report reads.But in good news for local visitors, the board also said the much-loved tradition of passengers dangling their legs out the windows of the train was likely to return.“Locked international borders gives us a great opportunity to attract our domestic market, with more attractive offerings at affordable pricing and the return of Puffing Billy Railway’s unique sitting on the sills experience,” the report reads.Financial statements show the board is preparing for a significant amount of income not to be paid, with $328,912 in doubtful debts earmarked in 2020.Former V/Line executive James Pinder stood down from the board in August after it was revealed he was at the centre of a major corruption probe.Mr Pinder was later alleged to have engaged in serious misconduct in his dealings with V/Line and Metro contracts for cleaning company Transclean.



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