'Tram' #29 was the creation of John Ellis in Launceston in 1995. John was already operating a 'homemade' tram around Launceston, again based on a Bedford truck chassis. He saw the potential to opening an operation in the capital city Hobart, so approached Hobart Coaches to operate a sightseeing 'tram' around Hobart in a working collaboration.

It was here, 'tram' #16 was born, operating under the banner Coach Tram Tour Co. The Hobart 'tram' was based on a 1973 Bedford J3 chassis, powered by a Perkins engine.

A major launch was organised for 1996 and the Hobart sightseeing tram was initiated, initially operating 2 x 3hr city sights tours around Battery Point, Female Factory Sth Hobart, Rosny Lookout and finally Wrest Point Casino.

 

In 2000, Hobart Coaches had gotten out of the bus business, and Bob Chung Gon from Experience Tasmania, took ownership of the tram outright, continuing to operate the tram under the ET-Grayline banner. Although the itinerary was slightly altered to incorporate the Botanical Gardens in replacement of Wrest Point, the tram still provided a very information city sights tour of Tasmania's capital city.

 

Over more recent years, the tram has been used sparingly and the city sights tour is no longer promoted as a designated 'tram tour'. Although a favourite of owner Bob Chung Gon, he decided it was time for the tram he loved be given a new lease on life and showcased around the state with the Tasmanian Bus & Coach Society.

 

The Society sincerely thank Bob and Experience Tasmania for entrusting us to showcase your pride and joy and highlight another operator from across Tasmania's public transport / touring landscape.