Constructed by the Victorian Railways, it branched from the Seymour line at Tallarook station, and ran east to Mansfield.

The line was primarily built to provide a general goods and passenger service to settlements in the area.

[2] The line was a result of a decade of local lobbying, and provided improved access for agricultural products from the region to Melbourne markets.

It was replaced by a bus service via Yarra Glen, which was rerouted via Whittlesea after road upgrades had been carried out.

[2] It was quickly dismantled following closure, preventing any chance of tourist services from operating along the line, despite some interest being shown.