But a Daylesford rail preservation group says the idea is unlikely to ever happen.

David Goldman, a volunteer at the Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre, wants more public support for his idea, which he believes is the answer to soaring fuel costs.

Mr Goldman said his idea started when scores of people quizzed volunteers at the information centre about commuting to the area

"People don't want to drive anymore. They are asking if they can get here by train," he said.

Mr Goldman said rising travelling costs were a long-term threat to the shire's tourism industry.

"We have many backpackers and people from all walks of life say to us . . . this is one thing that needs drastic decisions to keep the tourism industry alive," he said.

Mr Goldman recalled his 1940s trips to the shire from Spencer St Station to Woodend and then via railmotor on the branchline to Daylesford.

"We have come full circle and with petrol prices sky rocketing at an alarming rate now is the time to get people back to the railway system," he said.

Meanwhile Ian Fell, president of the Central Highlands Tourist Railway, which runs the Spa Country Railway from Daylesford to Bullarto, said he supported the idea but financial backing would forever burden any rail plan.

"It would be absolutely fantastic to have the railway re-opened, but it is extremely unlikely for any government to invest the millions of dollars needed to even think about it," he said.

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