The document compares the topographical differences between Melbourne and other cities that influenced their historical rail development. Melbourne's hilly terrain encouraged the early adoption of trams, diverging from other cities. It hopes that by understanding these historical factors, Melbourne can re-inspire growth of its heavy rail network to better meet changing expectations by 2050.

1. The Trails of Two Cities
and what they suggest to re-inspire growth of
Melbourne’s heavy rail network
Tony Smith
Complex Systems Analyst
Meme Media
ts@meme.com.au

2. The Trails of Two Cities
• Topographical differences and their impact
• Historical divergence driven by trams
• Changing expectations and lead times
• Trying to complete this paper when new
news seems to break every other day
• Hope and the Transport Integration Act
• What really might be possible by 2050?