The well-loved miniature railway at Weston Park has been brought back to glory with the surrounding grounds set to become a small recreation park.
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The rail track lies among bushland on the Weston peninsula of Lake Burley Griffin, and has been popular with families and visitors alike since its inception in the 1970s.
In 2013, an ACT Government masterplan of the area described the miniature railway as rundown but said the facility should be upgraded to its former state as an attractive recreational asset.
It wasn't until November last year, when new owner Jason Perkins took over, that the facility was renewed and a revamp of the existing grounds was set in motion.
Mr Perkins, who has a background in children's entertainment spaces, said his vision was to create a family-friendly environment by implementing new and exciting features.
"My plan is to bring a bit of life back to Weston Park," he said.
"We're introducing mini golf; it's all Canberra themed and we've got two courses happening."
The 18-hole mini golf course, which has recently been completed, is one of the first stages. A second mini golf course is under way.
Both Canberra-themed, visitors can expect to putt around Telstra Tower, ace the Shine Dome and tee up to tour the Canberra Stadium.
The new course will feature Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial among other landmarks.
The park now also features miniature animals, including a pony, lamb and cow.
To play along with the miniature railway, Mr Perkins bought three 1910 first-class train carriages to act as function spaces.
He said they can used by people of all ages, for children's parties right through to bucks and hens nights.
Mr Perkins, who has four children aged between 10 and 14, said he wanted a place where both mums and dads could feel comfortable to bring their children.
"I reckon I've seen more dads with kids come and play here than mums with kids. It's like dads are finally like, 'it's something I can do!'."
Mr Perkins also hopes to come to an arrangement with the government to restore the former maze, which lies close to the railway track but on a separate lease.
