19 JUNE 2024 | ISSUE 550 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
Steamrail Victoria's Vintage Train Takes Enthusiasts on a Grand Tour Steamrail Victoria recently treated train enthusiasts to a nostalgic journey through the Goulburn Valley from June 7th to 10th. Offering steam train rides for journeys between Melbourne, Seymour, and Shepparton, the heritage train, hauled by steam locomotives left a lasting impression on all passengers on board. Departing from Southern Cross Station, the train delighted passengers as it ran express towards Seymour, reminiscent of the golden days of 'The Spirit of Progress.' Passing through the northern suburbs and into regional Victoria, the train traversed the volcanic plains surrounding Wallan and ascended to the summit of the Great Dividing Range at Heathcote Junction. Upon arrival in the historic railway town of Seymour, travelers took the opportunity to explore the township while the locomotives underwent servicing. Continuing northward, the vintage train passed through the towns of Nagambie, Murchison East, Toolamba, and Mooroopna, drawing locals to the tracks for a rare glimpse of
a steam train on the line after 5 years. After its sojourn in the Goulburn Valley, the heritage train returned to Melbourne on Monday, June 10th. Fully restored by Steamrail, the Vintage Train holds a special place in Victoria’s rail heritage. The coal or oil-fired steam locomotives, dating from 1889 to 1952, together with carriages as early as 1906, showcase splendid timber work, pressedtin ceilings, walk-through corridors, opening windows, and comfortable compartment-style seating. Onboard, passengers were able to enjoy a wide range of refreshments from the onboard kiosk. Further enriching the railway experience, the heritage train will return on Saturday, July 6th, with the Seymour Railway Heritage Centre's ‘The Dinner Train.’ Passengers can embark from Seymour or Nagambie for a unique night out on an immaculately restored heritage train, featuring breathtaking carriages dating back to 1906. The highlight of the journey will be a three-course meal served in the original 1937 ‘Spirit of Progress’ dining car. The train boasts observation decks on both ends, offering passengers an opportunity to relish a nostalgic outdoors experience while traveling in style. This exclusive journey promises an unforgettable and rare experience, making it the only train operating on a mainline in Victoria with such an exhilarating feature. For bookings, visit trybooking.com/CQQMR or call 0477 707 411.