THE Wangaratta Stationeers are a group of volunteers who have been ensuring that travellers arrive at an inviting railway station for the past 24 years.

They are part of a statewide group that endeavours to keep Victorian railway stations clean and their gardens green.

Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria has overall responsibility for the Stationeers.

It supplies them with hi–vis vests and basic equipment, such as a recently acquired whipper snipper.

The Stationeers' activities include watering the plants, weeding the gardens, sweeping the platforms, picking up rubbish, and occasionally painting over graffiti.

The Wangaratta group was also responsible for organising local schools to create the many vibrant mural panels on the wall of the XPT platform.

Julie Sands has been one of the local Stationeers for three years.

"I got involved because a friend of mine, Robin, was a Stationeer, and I like doing something for our community, and I like railways and trains," Julie said.

"I enjoy the friendship and it's nice to get out and meet other people.

"We take turns watering the plants, someone is there weekly.

"We also have a working bee every now and then."

On the rubbish she picks up, Julie encourages others to "do the right thing, please use a bin".

She wished she could do something about the state of the XPT ramp and surrounds, but it is currently fenced off so the Stationeers can't get to it.

"We work with the council, notifying them if the bins need to be emptied," Julie said.

"I am delighted with the council's recent redevelopment of the area, it looks terrific."

She is particularly impressed by the old water tower being turned into a colourful "beacon".

Julie said the Stationeers would welcome new members, so if you love to garden or railway stations, or just enjoy working with community–minded people, contact the group's coordinator, David Maroney, on 0403 552 950.