Lilydale train line: Future of old VRI hidden station pub unclear

With the controversial Lilydale level crossing removal project complete, questions are being asked about the future of a popular hidden pub.

The future of a beloved “hidden pub” at Lilydale train station remains in doubt, with regular patrons desperate to return for a beer.

The Victorian Railways Institute bar opened in the 1970s, with the heritage-listed space on platform 2 of the old station previously used as refreshment rooms dating back to 1914.

Many people weren’t aware the bar existed until TikTok user ragnarthedon shared his amazement at finding it in a video that has now been viewed thousands of times.

But the bar had to close last year to make way for the Lilydale level crossing removal project, with the future of the old heritage Lilydale station building still to be determined.

Darren Gloury, who ran the bar with friend John Smith for 25 years, said he was regularly asked when it was reopening.

“I wish I had a dollar for every person who said ‘When are we going back?’ he said.

“I have no idea what is happening, but I know they are still renovating the building.”

Lindday Wilson, Don Sergeant, Richard Godbehere, John Smith and Darren Gloury enjoyed a drink at the hidden pub at Lilydale station before it closed. Picture: Rob Leeson.

In a Facebook post, the Lilydale Township Action Group said it had heard a rumour the building could be used by “an outside group,” not based in Lilydale.

“Lilydale has very little community space in comparison to other townships. We have no community centre, no living and learning centre, no men’s shed and until recently we had no neighbourhood house,” the group said.

“Now an asset that we were told was to be for our community appears to be likely destined for a community group outside of Lilydale. When will there be community space for Lilydale? We deserve better.”

The bar was tucked away on platform 2 of the old station, which is no longer used by commuters after the crossing was removed last year. Trains now run on a “sky rail” bridge across Maroondah Highway.

Yarra Ranges Council environment and infrastructure director Mark Varmalis said the council was advised that there may be an opportunity to lease the Lilydale heritage station building from VicTrack for the benefit of a community organisation.

The council ran an expression of interest (EOI) process in parallel with the state government project building works, which was released and open to all community organisations.

“Although the level crossing at Maroondah Highway has been removed, the works on the heritage building are still being undertaken and, as such, council is not yet able to determine if the final building’s finished state will meet the needs and requirements to be leased by council, or fit-for-purpose to house a community organisation,” Mr Varmalis said.

“As the EOI process is still ongoing, council cannot disclose any information about the applicants or provide any update on the final lease arrangement.”

The new area underneath Lilydale station has caused a stir, with many questioning the colour scheme.

According to the Level Crossing Removal Project, VicTrack will work with key stakeholders including the council to determine the future use of the old station building.

The Level Crossing Removal Project is currently carrying out heritage works on the old building and once completed in the coming months, the building will be handed back to VicTrack.

Project director Steve Brown said: “We know the community values the heritage of the old Lilydale Station building, and this project has protected that.”

The Lilydale level crossing removal project has come under fire from some locals who say it has made traffic worse, while others were disappointed the new station doesn’t have ramps.