Zig Zag Railway Wins Big at 2025 Western NSW Business Awards
Zig Zag Railway (ZZR) has proudly steamed into the winner’s circle at the 2025 Western NSW Business Awards, securing two major wins and a finalist nod in a third category — a landmark achievement for the heritage attraction and the passionate community behind it.
Zig Zag Railway Takes Top Honours at 2025 Western NSW Business Awards
Last night, ZZR was named the Outstanding Visitor Experience Winner for the second year running, cementing its place as one of the region’s most treasured and unique tourism offerings. The award recognises excellence in engaging and delighting visitors, showcasing the railway’s blend of living history, immersive storytelling, and breathtaking Blue Mountains landscapes.
The Railway also celebrated a second victory, with Lee Wiggins named Outstanding Employee/Volunteer of the Year. A stalwart of the Zig Zag family since 1997, Lee’s leadership as Rail Operations Manager — alongside his decades of dedication and mentorship — has been instrumental in delivering safe, seamless, and authentic experiences for thousands of guests.
Adding to the celebrations, CEO Daniel Zolfel was recognised as a finalist in the Young Business Leader of the Year category. At just 33, Daniel has spearheaded the Railway’s post-bushfire revival, successfully reopening the line in 2023 after more than a decade of closure and navigating complex challenges with tenacity and vision.
“Winning these awards is an incredible honour and a testament to the power of community, resilience, and storytelling,” said Zolfel. “Our team of volunteers are the heartbeat of Zig Zag Railway — these accolades are a tribute to their passion and commitment.”
Zig Zag Railway was named the Outstanding Visitor Experience Winner for the second year running.
These honours are not just wins for ZZR—they’re wins for the entire Lithgow and Blue Mountains region.
After a 10-year hiatus due to catastrophic bushfires, floods, and the COVID pandemic, ZZR triumphantly reopened in 2023. Since then, they have welcomed over 102,545 passengers, validating the strong public appetite for immersive, heritage-based tourism. Operated by a small team of 7 full-time and 11 casual staff, alongside a powerhouse crew of 350 volunteers contributing over 600 hours each month, ZZR exemplifies resilience, community spirit, and a deep commitment to preserving Australia’s industrial legacy.
Zig Zag Railway is more than just steam and steel
It’s a living, breathing testament to what regional Australia can achieve. As a not-for-profit and regional employer, ZZR delivers immersive educational experiences and builds bridges between generations and communities through shared history and storytelling.
Beyond its tracks, ZZR plays a vital role in the local and regional economy, injecting over $2.2 million annually into local businesses—accommodation providers, food vendors, small business, and local suppliers—through tourism-driven demand. Every ticket sold supports not just the preservation of a national treasure but the livelihoods of small business owners and the heartbeat of the Blue Mountain’s visitor economy.
“Our mission is to preserve and share rail history, but also to spark economic growth and cultural pride across the region.” said Daniel Zolfel, ZZR CEO.
With strategic expansion plans underway and strong partnerships across the region, the Railway continues to grow as a flagship destination for both domestic and inbound travellers.
“As we continue to evolve, we’re investing in digital infrastructure and enhanced visitor experiences to meet the changing expectations of travellers while safeguarding the authenticity and magic that define us.” said Zolfel. “This award is not the destination—it’s another stop on our journey to make history unforgettable.”
Hosted by Business NSW the 2025 Western NSW Business Awards, recognise the ingenuity, resilience and dedication of the state’s regional businesses. ZZR’s wins reflect its ongoing success in delivering not just unforgettable train rides, but an experience that connects people to place, history, and community.
Lee Wiggins named Outstanding Employee/Volunteer of the Year.
Media Contact:
Kellie Brown
Chief Marketing Officer, Zig Zag Railway
📧 kellie.brown@zigzagrailway.com.au
