Platform pints to community hub: Lilydale station’s historic drinking rooms set for a refresh

Years after the last drinks were called, plans for the heritage-listed property include a new look and providing social connection.

Author

Matthew Sims
January 05, 2026

A new era is on the horizon for the heritage-listed building that once housed Lilydale station’s vintage refreshment rooms.

In years gone by, commuters jumping off the train at the end of the Lilydale line were – until recently – able to grab a drink and have a chat in the building.

🗓️ The history: First opened in 1914, the Lilydale refreshment rooms were one of many similar establishments along Victoria’s train lines, providing everything from a cup of tea to a three-course meal, with about 500 staff members employed across Victoria’s train stations at one point.

  • Despite the doors closing at Lilydale’s refreshment rooms in 1978, the Victorian Railways Institute stepped in to reopen the facilities in 1980, serving customers until July 2021, when the facilities had to be closed down to make way for the new station as part of construction works.

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✅ Changing tracks: A VicTrack spokesperson told the Eastern Melburnian the facilities will “become a new community space providing educational and social opportunities” under management by the Lilydale Community House, a local not-for-profit organisation delivering community engagement via activities, events, and classes.

  • 🗣️ “Once the refurbishment works are complete, the VicTrack-owned building will be leased to Yarra Ranges Council and subleased to Lilydale Community House, who will manage the space with involvement from the Victorian Railways Institute,” said the spokesperson.

  • Delivered via joint funding from the State Government and Yarra Ranges Council, the project will also preserve the building’s original heritage, with works including the installation of new kitchen and toilets, creating a multi-use activity room and general rehabilitation of the building’s interior.