Infrastructive and Tourism ministrs David O'Byrne and Scott Bacon today annuonced that tickets for the new West Coast Wilderness Railway were now on sale as part of a major advertising campaign.

“I encourage everyone to support the railway and visit the West Coast to truly understand the contribution the town has made to the State through the hard work and tenacity of its residents,” Mr O’Byrne said.

The railway will officially reopen on January 6.

Mr Bacon said new television and internet video advertisements have been developed to entice visitors to the unique experience.

Television advertising will start in Tasmania and regional Victoria in early January, with video footage being used in broader advertising including interstate advertising by Tourism Tasmania.

The half-day tour service will depart Queenstown daily at 9am, stopping at the historic stations of Lynchford, Rinadeena and Dubbil Barril.

Mr O’Byrne paid tribute to the staff of the Abt Railway, saying that without their hard work and dedication, the January re-opening would not have been possible

Bookings can be made at the West Coast Wilderness Railway website, www.wcwr.com.au or by phoning the reservations office on 6471 0100 Monday to Friday (8am to 4pm).