After a protracted conversion with multiple delays in delivery of buses and other infrastructure, the Launceston trolleybus system opened on 24 December 1951 from the Launceston city centre to Quarantine Road via Wellington Street replacing a tram service.
[1][2] A second line opened to Mowbray Heights on 13 September 1952, being extended to Newnham Park on 21 November 1952.
On 1 July 1955, operation of the network passed from the Launceston City Council to the Metropolitan Transport Trust.
[3][5][7][8] Launceston's trolleybus routes were as follows: The fleet comprised 30 BUT RETB/1s.
[3][4][7] The Howick Street tram depot was doubled in size to accommodate the trolleybus fleet.