It’s an end of an era for Birchalls in Launceston as its iconic train was auctioned off on Friday afternoon.
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The Birchalls train had been a much-loved part of the bookstore store since the 1980s, causing concern it would disappear from the Launceston public eye.
But it looks like the train might not be lost to the public after all.
Auctioneer Beau Thompson confirmed the new owners had “good intentions” for the train.
“They intend to make sure the train remains on public display.”
The highest bid was made by an anonymous written offer with the hammer closing on a price of $9000.
The final price had been welcomed by Mr Thompson as the two train set with accompanying rails and extras was worth about $1000.'
Launceston Birchalls managing director Graeme Tilley decided to put the train up for auction alongside the rest of the stores fittings with the proceeds from the train sale going to The Examiner’s Empty Stocking Appeal.
“Children used to drag their parents to Birchalls to see the train,” Tilley said.