Led by Greens councillor James Ryan, the group took a ‘symbolic’ last train ride to Newcastle station in an effort to bring a message from Cessnock that the rail line deserves to be saved.

Cr. Ryan said that any reduction in public transport would have a widespread effect on commuters from regional areas and that the decision made by the Baird Government to cut the rail line was “short-sighted”.

“What we are doing is a gesture of support from residents of Cessnock, who agree that the right decision has not been made,” Cr. Ryan said.

“We want to bring a message of appreciation from Cessnock, to those who are still fighting the fight in Newcastle.”

On Friday, advocacy group Save Our Rail launched an injunction application to the Supreme Court on the grounds that the government does not have an Act of Parliament to support the rail line truncation.

The government plans to begin works to cut the Newcastle line from Wickham on Boxing Day.

Between December 26 and January 4 all Hunter line trains will terminate at Broadmeadow.

From January 5 trains will terminate at Hamilton which will serve as a temporary interchange for buses.