The Diamond Creek Rotary Tram Café stands as a beacon of community spirit and collaboration, offering more than just coffee and cookies to its patrons. Nestled amidst the trees in the picturesque Regional Playspace of Diamond Creek, this quaint café has quickly become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. 
Since its opening on October 31, 2020, the Tram Café has captured the hearts of many, offering a unique and charming experience for all who stumble upon it. Positioned within an old W-Class Melbourne tram, the café exudes nostalgia and warmth, inviting guests to step inside and indulge in a delightful array of treats.
Refreshing Treats for Everyone at Diamond Creek Rotary Tram Café
While the tram itself may not offer seating, the surrounding undercover decking area provides ample space for patrons to relax and enjoy their beverages and snacks. From classic coffee favourites like cappuccinos and lattes to indulgent hot chocolates and chai lattes, the café caters to all tastes and preferences. For those looking to unwind with a cup of tea, options such as English Breakfast and Jasmine tea are available, adding to the cozy atmosphere of the café. And let’s not forget the little ones, who can delight in a selection of milkshakes offered in a variety of delicious flavours.
What truly sets the Tram Café apart is its community-driven ethos. Operated by the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek, it represents the club’s largest ongoing project to date. With the majority of Rotary members obtaining their Food Handling Certificates and volunteering their time at the café, it has become a labour of love for the entire community. Additionally, the café partners with Araluen, a local disability support service, providing valuable training opportunities for their clients in hospitality and customer service.
Moreover, the café opens its doors to various community groups and other Rotary Clubs, inviting them to participate in running the café on weekends. This collaborative effort not only fosters a sense of unity within the community but also allows participating groups to earn valuable funds for their causes.
The History of the Diamond Creek Rotary Tram Café
The acquisition and restoration of Tram 812 by the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek stand as a testament to the power of community collaboration and determination. The journey began in May 2018 when the Victorian State Government announced the opportunity for Victorians to acquire one of the 134 Retired W Class Trams. This initiative aimed to repurpose these iconic trams for various community purposes, ranging from educational projects to public amenities.
Recognising the potential of this opportunity, the Diamond Creek CFA and the Diamond Creek Men’s Shed approached the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek to put forth a joint submission to acquire a tram for Diamond Creek. A dedicated team comprising members from each organization worked closely with the Nillumbik Shire Council to prepare and submit the Expression of Interest. After a rigorous selection process, the joint submission emerged victorious, being recognized as the best among the 1500 applications received.
With the support of the community and local businesses, Tram 812 was delivered to Diamond Creek on 13 June 2019, marking the beginning of an ambitious restoration project. Having languished in storage at the Newport depot for approximately two decades, the tram required extensive refurbishment to restore it to its former glory. However, with unwavering dedication and generous donations, both in terms of funds and resources, the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek embarked on the challenging task of reviving this piece of history.
Over the following months, volunteers worked tirelessly to restore Tram 812, breathing new life into its weathered exterior and aging interior. From repainting its iconic green and gold livery to refurbishing its interior fittings, every aspect of the tram was meticulously attended to, ensuring that it retained its vintage charm while meeting modern safety standards.
The restoration project also served as a rallying point for the community, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents of Diamond Creek. Local businesses generously contributed materials, expertise, and financial support, underscoring the collective commitment to preserving this piece of local history. Furthermore, the project provided valuable opportunities for skill development and camaraderie, with volunteers from diverse backgrounds coming together to work towards a common goal.
Today, Tram 812 stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit, serving as a vibrant hub within the Diamond Creek community. Its transformation from a dormant relic to a bustling café exemplifies the power of collective action and the enduring legacy of community-driven initiatives. As patrons sip their coffee and soak in the ambiance of the tram café, they are not just enjoying a beverage – they are participating in a living testament to the strength and unity of the Diamond Creek community.
The Legacy of Diamond Creek Rotary Tram Café
The Diamond Creek Rotary Tram Café has become a cherished gathering spot for the Diamond Creek community, embodying the spirit of unity and camaraderie that defines the town. Nestled amidst the trees in the new Regional Playspace, the café offers more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee or a snack – it provides a welcoming environment where residents can come together, connect, and create lasting memories.
For many Diamond Creek residents, a visit to the Tram Café is more than just a routine outing – it’s a chance to see familiar faces, catch up with neighbours, and enjoy the company of friends and family. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the park or a spontaneous meet-up with loved ones, the café serves as a hub of activity and a focal point for community engagement.
Beyond its role as a social gathering spot, the Tram Café also represents the collective efforts of the Diamond Creek community to preserve and repurpose a piece of local history. From the initial acquisition of Tram 812 to its painstaking restoration and transformation into a bustling café, the project has been a testament to the power of collaboration and shared purpose. Volunteers, local businesses, and community organizations have come together to breathe new life into the tram, ensuring that it continues to serve as a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come.
As patrons sip their drinks and savour their snacks at the Tram Café, they are not just supporting a local business – they are participating in a collective endeavour that celebrates the unique spirit of Diamond Creek. It’s a place where friendships are forged, stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened, making it an integral part of the fabric of community life.
