Puffing Billy

For me, an interstate migrant, steam trains are a dream picture from watching Thomas the Tank Engine. I had no concept that there was a brilliant wonderful choo-choo train, an hours drive from the Peninsula, that whisked you away to that world of the past. However, doing a self-guided trip to the Dandenongs is very easy and a complete day can easily be spent up right here. Ride the steam practice and discover Emerald Park Lake or do the return trip to Belgrave and then take a hike in the forest. Along the way you will cross the historic Monbulk Creek trestle bridge, wave on the pleasant locals from their backyards and spot the Cardinia Reservoir within the distance.

Enjoy your entrée in the enclosed eating carriages before arriving on the unique perform venue, the Nobelius Packing Shed, where mains and desserts are served. The evening’s entertainers will make certain your evening out is enjoyable with reside music that everyone is conscious of and loves! Whether you want to dance or choose to have a chat together with your fellow passengers, you’ll be positive to benefit from the atmosphere of ‘The Shed’ until it is time to return to the practice. Add a stylish twist of steam to your subsequent event, with choices to charter a prepare, hire exclusive carriages in your group, or take pleasure in First Class wine and dine experiences in fantastically restored heritage dining carriages. Plus, there are various experiences off the rails – from paddle boating to bike rent – to reconnect and encourage your group. The Lakeside to Gembrook return journey departs from the picturesque Lakeside station inside Emerald Lake Park.

For those on the lookout for an adrenaline rush, the Edge—a glass-floored platform dangling 300 metres above ground—is an incredible experience. This place consists of panoramic views of Melbourne and its environs, the thrilling Edge experience, interactive exhibitions and multimedia displays, and a café and bar where you may benefit from the views while drinking refreshments. That said, Puffing Billy Railway operates year-round, and every season presents its distinctive charm. In summer (December to February), hotter climate makes it perfect for picnics and other outside activities, although it might be busier with larger temperatures.

With a spread of delicious picnic packs obtainable, pre-order your meals and spend the relaxation of your time making recollections to treasure endlessly.Located adjacent to Lakeside station sits Puffing Billy’s new Lakeside Visitor Centre. Featuring a café with some of the greatest produce on supply within the area, and a present shop with locally produced crafts. The Train of Lights show seamlessly blends the timeless attract of steam locomotion with the up to date charm of LED expertise, promising passengers an unforgettable journey via the enchanting Dandenong Ranges.

For newer members, this may be eye-opening, while skilled Rotarians are reminded of the powerful position they play within this huge, impactful organization. The convention is a strong reminder that every Rotarian’s efforts contribute to a bigger mission, making the event a unifying experience that reinforces the commitment to “Service Above Self.” The vacationer prepare carried a document number of passengers in that period, however working prices elevated dramatically as a end result of ageing infrastructure and flood damage. A Puffing Billy volunteer who sexually abused two young practice fanatics has been sentenced to prison time but is unlikely to serve a day.

For additional data or to book a Twilight Train expertise, go to /experiences/excursion/thursday-twilight-train/ . You can enjoy the beloved custom of sticking your legs exterior the window of Puffing Billy Railway’s historic open-side carriages. Free for all train ticket holders, passengers can even explore the Menzies Creek Museum which is home to greater than eighty railway-related displays. These embody uncommon operational steam and diesel locomotives, an operational boiler house that services steam engines and the Little Toot Café for all your morning tea needs.

Ride in the open sides carriages as the historic steam trains continue to run on their authentic mountain monitor between Belgrave and Gembrook, in the natural surrounds of the magnificent Dandenong Ranges. The iconic Puffing Billy Railway is a much-loved tourist attraction positioned within the Dandenong Ranges, forty kilometres east of Melbourne. Emerald Lake Park is a scenic destination for so much of, centrally positioned on the railway.

Discover an array of activities Emerald Lake Park has to offer including bike rent, paddle boat rides, strolling trails, playgrounds, and a miniature model railway display. The Emerald and District Museum has an exquisite collection of family and agricultural goods, personal issues, business information, and images that hint the community’s progress from its gold rush days within the late 1850s. The museum, positioned in the Nobelius Heritage Park, supplies a singular view into the past on the grounds of a once-thriving wholesale nursery firm. The park is a living tribute to Carl Axel Nobelius, who created the Gembrook Nurseries in 1893, and it maintains the memory of the once-great Nobelius Nurseries, which performed an important part in regional historical past. With the return of the enduring, decades-old custom of dangling your legs from Puffing Billy’s conventional open carriages, passengers can as soon as again experience the true thrill of sitting on the carriage sill from Belgrave to Lakeside.

Puffing Billy Railway is a child-safe organisation committed to protecting youngsters and younger individuals from hurt. Employees are required to sign our Child Safe Policy and Code of Conduct and undergo a Rail Safety Medical, take part in a National Criminal History Check, and hold an worker status Working with Children Check. Evidence of COVID-19 Vaccination standing is required from the profitable applicant. You shall be part of a caring and supportive team of go-getters who love what they do and who’re keen about ensuring our customers have the finest possible experience. There is an excellent stroll from Belgrave to Sassafras, 12 km or so, however actually pretty.

An extremely devoted group of around 900 volunteers and dozens of staff maintain Puffing Billy and all the other trains operational. Local Emerald resident Craig Appelby was the primary man to cross the finish line in the thirteen.5km occasion, with a time of 44 minutes and 11 seconds. Cockatoo resident Sarah Klein was the first feminine to take out top spot with a time of forty eight minutes and 11 seconds. Both runners beat Puffing Billy, which arrived in fifty six minutes and 12 seconds.The gruelling half marathon saw John Dutton take home the gold medal with a time of 1 hour, quarter-hour and 54 seconds.

For birdwatching enthusiasts, Puffing Billy Railway presents numerous habitats and abundant birdlife to watch. Whether in search of journey, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Puffing Billy Railway guarantees an unforgettable expertise for all. Plan your trip right now and embark on a journey to find the wonders of this iconic vacation spot. Nestled amidst Victoria’s picturesque landscapes, this iconic railway offers charming experiences for visitors of all ages.

The pleasure begins from the second you arrive on the station with the sight of the historic locomotives, the smell of the steam and the sound of the train’s whistle. As with all 120-year-old steam locomotives, their race time varies based on numerous components, including monitor circumstances, weather, and meals (coal) consumption leading into the race. We respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners, the Wurundjeri and Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation, as the custodians of the land and waters where we stay, supply, and share hospitality. We pay respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander neighborhood Elders, previous, present and rising.

It may also support Puffing Billy’s partnerships with the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley businesses, together with wineries and gourmet producers, to showcase the area and their merchandise to visitors. It provides a modern framework to future-proof the operations and governance of the attraction so it can function more effectively and proceed to attract guests to the Dandenong Ranges. People from all backgrounds, together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, people from culturally and linguistically numerous backgrounds, and people with disabilities who’ve the related expertise, are inspired to apply. We have an exciting alternative for a hands-on and proactive Passenger Services Manager to join our team primarily based in Belgrave, VIC and oversee the visitor experience of our passengers. The commissioners’ Train only runs a number of times a yr and passengers are proven the workshop where the trains are maintained – engines are fully overhauled. It stops in Menzies Creek the place the new Puffing Billy Museum is being built, before rambling off to Emerald, Lakeside, and Gembrook.

Whether you’re craving thrilling adventures, serene nature escapes, or family-friendly outings, there’s something for everyone to get pleasure from alongside the Puffing Billy Railway route. More than four hundred,000 guests benefit from the preserved heritage steam railway yearly, and the return of leg dangling all the way in which from Belgrave to Gembrook is a very welcome development. It joins the current improve to each the Gembrook Historic Station and Menzies Creek Station. Embark on an enchanting afternoon journey with us, beginning your journey through the verdant Dandenong Ranges aboard the long-lasting Puffing Billy steam prepare. Marvel on the lush landscapes and historic locomotive as it winds its way from Belgrave to Lakeside throughout this hour-long expedition. At The Nobbies, relish panoramic coastal vistas of Bass Strait from the clifftop boardwalks and witness the awe-inspiring blowhole.

Puffing Billy Railway is dedicated to offering an pleasant expertise for everybody and has a variety of accessible facilities out there for our passengers. Rotary brings together a global community of volunteerleaders who dedicate their time and expertise to tacklethe world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.Rotary connects 1.four million members from extra than200 international locations and geographical areas. Our members are devoted people who share apassion for both community service and friendship.Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diversegroup of professionals who share your drive to provide again. Finally, a District Conference allows Rotarians to see the larger picture and achieve a renewed sense of purpose. While membership activities are integral, the conference highlights the broader scope of Rotary’s influence each regionally and globally. Sessions often showcase humanitarian initiatives, discuss Rotary’s areas of focus, and provide updates on Rotary International’s objectives.

Opened in 1900 as the rail connection between Upper Ferntree Gully and Gembrook, the line was unique in its slender gauge development (one of solely 4 in Victoria), permitting the train to negotiate the Dandenong Ranges’ mountainous terrain. Step again in time at Australia’s oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railway, Puffing Billy, located within the picturesque Dandenong Ranges and only one hour from Melbourne CBD. Visit the new state-of–the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre at Emerald Lake precinct to study more about the railway and the region.

You will have the power to really feel the practice shudder to life beneath you, smell the coal steam billowing out of the prepare’s chimney, and hear to every blast of the evocative whistle. Puffing Billy was built in 1900 to carry passengers, livestock, potatoes and timber to the small communities residing in the hills. “Puffing Billy has been some of the beloved experiences for Victorians and international visitors for greater than 100 years, and now guests can benefit from the excitement of sitting on the sills for the full size of the journey,” he said. With A Day Out with Thomas Thomas the Tank engine pulls the prepare by way of part of the Puffing Billy observe from Gembrook to Emerald plus there are different family-friendly activities to enjoy at Gembrook.

When the steam engine is prepared to depart the depot, you’ll hear the train whistle blow. As you start exiting Belgrave, there might be lots of workers and guests waving to you. With a novel experience and much to see, there is not any going mistaken with a Puffing Billy practice experience. Linear plan association The linear association of function is straightforward, legible and accessible.

Discover fantastic wildlife and spectacular landscapes made for adventure whereas sitting on the carriage sill of Puffing Billy’s open-side carriages. The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a sprawling sanctuary amid town that provides a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of the urban rush. With over 8,500 plant species, it is a naturalist’s dream and a must-see for botanists. Visitors may stroll via themed gardens, take pleasure in lush landscapes, or chill out by the quiet lakes. Here, you can find numerous plant collections from throughout the world, stunning glasshouses exhibiting collections of flora, informative guided excursions and educational programs, and attractive picnic spaces and cafes for a calming break. Emerald Lake Park is a botanical surprise that covers round fifty two hectares and is residence to both native and unique flora, such as fern gullies and eucalypt forests.

Puffing Billy operates every single day besides Christmas Day, and is definitely accessible from Melbourne by Metro Train on the Belgrave Line. Function areas may be employed independently or combined with our steam prepare journeys, including non-public constitution trains, exclusive carriages for groups, and onboard eating in enclosed heritage first-class carriages. Experience the time-honoured custom of sitting on the carriage sill – a real thrill for young and old! Ride in open-sided carriages over the rolling hills, down the valley and into the forest on the unique 24km mountain observe between Belgrave and Gembrook and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the area on board our Excursion prepare journey. With lush fern gullies brushing previous your open side carriage and Mountain Ash timber towering overhead, the entire household will love using the Puffing Billy steam prepare in your subsequent weekend journey or college holidays tour. Thanks to Puffing Billy’s signature open-side carriages, you will have front-row seats to the journey’s mountains, forests, valleys and iconic timber trestle bridges.

Alternatively, beat the queue by pre-ordering a grazing box or classic scones and tea to get pleasure from at your leisure. Puffing Billy Railway is thrilled to unveil a new timetable filled with plenty extra adventure, running from 23 December 2024 to 26 June 2025 and out there to book from 18 September. Along with a fresh lineup of daily tour prepare services, passengers will quickly be handled to an exciting new experience under the celebrities; Twilight Trains, operating every Thursday night and kicking off on 10 October.

It has a contemporary café with the best produce on provide in the region, a dedicated present store that includes locally designed treasures and a gallery of steam artifacts in the Lakeside Hall. Take in the lush fern gullies brushing previous the open facet carriages and Mountain Ash bushes towering overhead. A journey on the Puffing Billy Railway is a superb opportunity to chill out and breathe in the recent air whilst the prepare makes its means by way of the temperate rainforest. Puffing Billy is Australia’s favourite steam train and one of many most interesting preserved steam railways in the world. This century-old steam practice continues to run on its authentic mountain track within the magnificent Dandenong Ranges 40kms east of Melbourne.

After boarding, Puffing Billy chugs away and also you and your beloved ones can take in the spectacular surroundings of the beautiful Sherbrooke Forest, a superb temperate rainforest with native ‘Mountain Ash’ bushes. Within minutes, you will cross Puffing Billy’s most well-known landmark – the enduring Monbulk Creek trestle bridge. Hop on board Puffing Billy for an outdoor journey via the Dandenong Ranges to the picturesque Emerald Lake Park.

The women perused the local Op Shop while us dads shepherded the youngsters across the quaint native lolly store, filling small paper baggage with a variety of sweets from quaint jars. Then, bursting with sugar-fuelled energy, we unleashed the kids onto the train-themed playground that sits beside the station. There are some small shed-like stations along the track to Gembrook and temporary emergence into the passing towns, however the main points of interest are the three wood bridges that the prepare traverses. One of these is the most important on the Puffing Billy line, spanning over 60 metres in size and 15 metres in top; an engineering feat of wood and metallic to assist the nice weight of the prepare and its passengers. You will discover inside native information on parks, playgrounds, cafes, family actions, markets and more all ready to be uncovered, rediscovered and enjoyed. Puffing Billy, a renowned Victorian tourist gem nestled in the coronary heart of the Dandenong Ranges, has been a beloved part of the hills group for over a century.

The Puffing Billy practice is Australia’s premier preserved steam prepare, transporting guests back to the golden age of steam journey. Puffing Billy is positioned within the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, solely an hour east of Melbourne. Whether you are in search of journey, a taste of historical past, or a cultural experience, Puffing Billy Railway has one thing for everyone, making it a well-liked destination for locals and tourists. Today, Puffing Billy Railway is a significant vacationer attraction and incites visitors to come back and expertise a century old tradition.

Puffing Billy Railway travels via the Dandenong Ranges, only one hour east of Melbourne. Experience the charm of Puffing Billy and the magic of the Penguin Parade in one unforgettable day trip. Proceeds from the 2024 Puffing Billy Running Festival will be donated to heritage railway initiatives, similar to the development of Puffing Billy Railway’s Belgrave Station Signal Box. Puffing Billy Railway acknowledges the Wurundjeri and Bunurong folks because the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Puffing Billy Railway operates, and pay our respects to their Elders past, current and emerging. Puffing Billy Railway is proud to work with tourism businesses in our local people.

These months provide gentle, nice climate, excellent for having fun with outdoor actions like prepare rides and exploring the scenic Dandenong Ranges. The landscape is stunning during these instances, with spring bringing vibrant blooms and autumn showcasing beautiful foliage. Additionally, these seasons have a tendency to attract fewer crowds in comparison with the height summer and winter months, providing a more relaxed and pleasant experience. Or get pleasure from a different type of Puffing Billy Railway experience in beautifully restored heritage dining carriages as part of the railway’s first-class Steam You will see the historic locomotives being prepared for departure at Lakeside Station and be waved aboard by the engine driver, wearing traditional blue overalls and cap, and their stately conductors.

You can benefit from the iconic steam train journey all the method in which to Menzies Creek station. After a brief time the place this wasn’t allowed – nevertheless it has returned to be part of the experience once more. You can climb concerning the railway carriages, sit on the window sill together with your legs hanging out, and be proper on the sting as you cross over the trestles bridges, and previous rolling hills. The magic is within the whistle blowing, the steam billowing and the train chugging out of the station. The Puffing Billy Steam Train and railway line is maintained by a devoted staff of volunteers. Today the century-old steam practice nonetheless runs on the mountain monitor between Belgrave and Gembrook.

The Daily Excursion Trains at Puffing Billy Railway provide a nostalgic experience over the magnificent Dandenong Ranges, with three main routes catering to varied experiences. The Belgrave to Lakeside return route is well-liked, transporting passengers via lush woodlands and previous stunning landmarks together with the famend Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge. For those in search of to go farther, the Lakeside to Gembrook return route takes you into the lovely city of Gembrook, the place you might discover local sights. The Belgrave to Gembrook return route offers an extensive trip, integrating one of the best of each preceding trips into a full-day adventure. Each route provides open-sided carriages, letting guests take pleasure in leisure in the pure surroundings. The Puffing Billy Dog Express is a unique practice service designed for canine lovers and their animal pets.

Bike racks at Belgrave Station make it simple to secure your ride when you explore. After Moonlit Sanctuary we arrive on Phillip Island, where we’ll visit Point Grant. You can take in the spectacular views of The Nobbies and Seal Rocks on this location.

Puffing Billy have a variety of delicious picnic and lunch packs out there for adults, children, couples and households. These can be found for pre-order along with your practice tickets and can be collected at Belgrave and Lakeside station. Nestled amongst the towering rainforests of the Dandenong Ranges sits Puffing Billy Railway’s new state-of-the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre. Located adjoining to Lakeside station sits Puffing Billy’s new state-of-the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre. From Lakeside, you’ll ride on Puffing Billy by way of Wright Forest, which is wealthy with tall, fragrant eucalypt bushes.

The historic steam train departs from Belgrave and weaves via the vast Dandenong Ranges. Enjoy hearty food, good firm and live music with a group of friends.Travelling aboard Dine Enjoy a 1-hour journey through lush rainforests, embracing the time-honoured custom of dangling your legs out of the practice. Lakeside Visitor Centre combines its pure environment with the genuine sights, smells, and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway to supply visitors a cultural hub with world class facilities. Attending a Rotary District Conference as a Rotarian presents a singular opportunity for inspiration, growth, and connection.

We are capable of nab a picnic desk proper by the lake with excellent views of the paddleboats and the water. The new state-of-the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre implies that even on a rainy day you have someplace to shelter, which was beforehand a failing of the Emerald Park expertise should you have been unfortunate to come across inclement climate. So I am really excited to have the opportunity to ride the Puffing Billy once more, invited this time as an grownup with two children in tow. Passengers can view the full timetable and fare types of day by day tour trains for 23 December 2024 to 26 June 2025 at

Puffing Billy Railway is a superbly preserved steam prepare that’s been operating since 1900, capturing the spirit of the steam age in all its charming glory. We have stood the test of time being preserved, restored, and maintained by passionate folks and championed by the local people. Volunteers put the life into our living museum, supporting our efforts to preserve and function our heritage railway. Discover various wildlife on a safari adventure and explore the pristine wilderness surrounding Puffing Billy Railway. Marvel at the beautiful nationwide parks with their lush rainforests and rugged mountains, offering distinctive alternatives for exploration. Unwind on tranquil seashores, soak up the sun, and revel in swimming, browsing, or simply lounging on the sand.

Its nostalgic charm and cultural significance have attracted both locals and vacationers alike, creating cherished reminiscences for generations. Puffing Billy tour trains depart a minimum of two times a day throughout the week, with a selection of journey options obtainable. More than 400,000 folks climb aboard the heritage prepare every year.Puffing Billy Railway Board chair Tim North said he was thrilled to announce the return of leg-dangling all the way to Gembrook station. Puffing Billy will chug alongside the historic narrow-gauge observe to Gembrook Station where visitors will disembark for a 55-minute stopover. Here, you possibly can warm up by the crackling open firepits with scorching chocolate and live acoustic music, and luxuriate in a sausage sizzle by the Rotary Club of Emerald and District.

Something that has made driving on Puffing Billy an thrilling expertise for a couple of years is the custom of sitting in the carriage window sills. Including bushes ferns, floor ferns and the towering mountain ash eucalyptus timber. The space is thought for having cool temperatures and is the proper place to flee the summer time heat. The journey by way of the Dandenong Ranges is what makes this an much more special expertise. However, in 1953 a landslide blocked the track and prevented the prepare from working. It was only due to the exhausting work of volunteers that the road was capable of be reopened.

The line was closed in 1954 after a landslide, but thanks to dedicated volunteers it was partially re-opened as a vacationer prepare in 1962. Companion card holders journey free of cost onboard Puffing Billy’s every day prepare journeys, and their client (with an Australian Government issued concession or healthcare card) pays a concession fare. Start off the day at Emerald Lake Park with your pup, the place you can explore walking trails collectively earlier than boarding dog-friendly carriages at Lakeside Station.

Puffing Billy Railway’s Education Programs are designed to offer children with hands-on studying opportunities in historical past, engineering, and the environment. These packages, tailor-made for various age groups, embrace guided excursions, interactive activities, and classroom resources—all primarily based on the famend steam prepare. It’s a wonderful educational experience that combines pleasure and significant teachings in a unique historic surroundings. Our tour departs from Melbourne CBD and simply an hour’s drive could have you standing on the platform at Belgrave Station able to climb aboard.

Puffing Billy typically runs special family-friendly occasions such as A Day Out with Thomas in Spring and Autumn and Santa Specials in December. You can peek inside people’s backyards, look out for wildlife within the fern gullies and respect the views of Cardinia Reservoir. You can select to go further to Gembrook, which is approximately one other 50 minutes away however the return journey takes 5 hours. In the spirit of reconciliation, Holidays with Kids acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of nation throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and neighborhood. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and lengthen that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples right now.

Whether it’s an energetic adventure, a contact of nostalgia, or cultural experiences, there is something for everybody at Puffing Billy Railway. There are also a quantity of specialty prepare events happening all yr long similar to ‘Day Out with Thomas’, ‘Jazz on Puffing Billy’, ‘Rock N Roll Train’ and ‘Murder Mystery Train’. The railway has been well cared for and maintained by the Puffing Billy Preservation Society. The journey aboard Puffing Billy takes you thru the magnificent Dandenong Ranges, situated only one hour east of Melbourne.

It’s additionally probably the most picturesque and well-known part of the observe, allows a return journey back to Belgrave and takes 60 minutes one way (2 hours return). For spectacular panoramic views of Melbourne, visit the Melbourne Skydeck, on the 88th degree of the Eureka Tower. This statement platform supplies a novel view of the metropolitan skyline, with sweeping panoramas that attain the Dandenong Ranges.

You might be answerable for implementing initiatives and activities that improve the expertise of our visitors. This includes guaranteeing the delivery of high standards of customer support for the entire customer journey and the Lakeside Visitor Centre, on website passenger interplay and security management. Established in 1900, the railway served the local communities that lived within the hills and carried anything from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and vegetation. Today, we now have turn out to be a tourism icon due to the tireless efforts of over 300 volunteers and group of dedicated employees. The volunteers and staff who preserve the trains, manage excursions and the timetables are all a wonderful group of characters who make it such a special experience to journey on the trains.

The project brings together practice fanatics and native park goers, creating a unique tourism amenity providing which collects the many customers of the positioning in a single but advanced constructing. Step right into a timeless world of wonder with Australia’s favourite steam prepare, Puffing Billy, situated in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and only one-hour east of Melbourne. The residing legend that’s Puffing Billy was built in 1900 to serve the native communities that lived in the hills, carrying something from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and plants. Today, the railway is a century old not-for-profit steam railway that connects and enriches folks with the past, the surroundings and each other. Start the outside journey on board Australia’s favorite steam practice as you dangle your legs from Puffing Billy’s conventional open-side carriages; a very iconic experience that cannot be found anyplace else in the world. Feel the wind in your hair and watch the bushes pass by in front of your toes because the practice winds through essentially the most magnificent scenery of the Dandenong Ranges, only one hour from Melbourne.

Visitors may even see the ocean’s wonders as they journey via a variety of marine environments, from vibrant coral reefs to the icy wastes of the Antarctic. Highlights embrace a broad variety of marine life displays, interactive shows, and academic packages, as nicely as immersive underwater tunnels that present a singular viewpoint. There are also possibilities to work together with wonderful aquatic species like sharks, penguins, and sea turtles. Hop on the Belgrave line of the Metro Trains Melbourne network and ride to Belgrave Station. The Victorian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander folks because the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, previous and current. In the early 1900’s 4 low price gauge strains have been opened up in Victoria to serve people residing in distant areas.

Lakeside Visitor Centre Discover Puffing Billy Railway’s new state-of-the-art facility set in the scenic surrounds of Emerald Lake Park. Designed by renowned architects Terroir, Lakeside Visitor Centre’s light-filled event areas echo the railway’s heritage with out compromising on comfort or amenities. Lakeside Visitor Centre options indoor and out of doors event areas, local meals and wine, and provoking group experiences. The Railway was built in 1900 to serve the local communities that lived within the hills, carrying something from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and plants.

As daylight fades and the crisp winter air sets in, passengers embark on a fascinating 2.5-hour journey from Lakeside Station to Gembrook. Along the historic narrow-gauge track, the prepare comes alive with a mesmerising array of lights and hues, casting a fascinating glow in opposition to the night sky. The Train of Lights is again on the tracks for 2024 and in a position to captivate passengers with a magical winter journey via the Dandenong Ranges. Australia’s favourite steam prepare Puffing Billy will be your conductor for this two-and-a-half-hour spherical trip that illuminates the pure fantastic thing about the region with thousands of dazzling lights. Puffing Billy Railway is situated at the finish of the Belgrave metro line or a straightforward 40km drive from Melbourne GPO (free automotive parking is available). If you’re able to construct lifelong friendships, contribute to the group and be a part of residing history – we’d love to have you ever on board!

Puffing Billy makes for an exquisite alternative to chill out and breathe in the fresh air while the prepare makes its means through the temperate rainforest. Passengers can disembark at various stations along the finest way, exploring charming cities and villages. The Lakeside Visitor Centre boasts a modern cafe, a gift store showcasing native crafts, and a gallery featuring historical railway artefacts.

You also can enjoy an early lunch at the Lakeside Visitor Centre’s Railway Café, the place canine are welcome within the outside eating space. The operators of Victoria’s iconic Puffing Billy steam prepare say it faces an unsure future without greater financial help from the State or Federal Governments. Welcome the end of term three and the beginning of college holidays with a trip to Puffing Billy Railway – it’s the right time to get outdoors, maintain the youngsters transferring and exploring, and make household memories that final a lifetime. Emerald Lake Park is essential to the festival, internet hosting the 1.2km and 5km occasions, the finish areas for the thirteen.5km and 21.1km races, as properly as the race trains and parking.

Or do the walk simply so far as the well-known Grants Picnic Ground – get pleasure from a cuppa, see the birds and either walk back to Belgrave or take a bus again down the hill. Abandoned for years near Erica, Climax 1694 was purchased by the Puffing Billy Preservation Society. Initially intended as a stationary show prepare, it was restored to working order in 1988.

In 1962 the Preservation Society officially opened the road from Belgrave to Menzies Creek, however this time as a vacationer attraction. An extension to Emerald opened in 1965, to the Lakeside Station in 1975 and at last all the way to Gembrook in 1998. It’s an icon and nothing brings again extra childhood memories than occurring a ride on Puffing Billy. The odor of the engines and the clunks and grinds of equipment as you enter the Belgrave platform, is all a part of the expertise. Add within the volunteers dressed in conventional uniforms blowing whistles and waving flags – you are feeling like you are a part of the Thomas the Tank Engine story.

Immerse yourself within the nice outdoors with a variety of activities similar to mountaineering, biking, and picnicking alongside the railway route. Experience the joys of journey amidst breathtaking natural magnificence, from bushwalking through pristine forests to exploring hidden caves. Create cherished reminiscences with family-friendly activities, including interactive reveals and hands-on workshops. Escape the hustle and bustle of metropolis life with a soothing day journey aboard the iconic steam prepare, transporting you to charming locations full of historical past and allure. Puffing Billy Railway is an icon of Victorian tourism, which required a new flagship Visitor Centre was needed to assist the poppular historic practice ride experience.

While the Council has partially reopened the Emerald Lake Precinct, together with Nobelius Heritage Park and Emerald Lake Park, the bush tracks will stay closed during ongoing cleanup. “We are honoured to obtain this prestigious award, which has been a labour of affection for so many people, including the groups at TERRIOR Architects and Kane Constructions,” Puffing Billy Railway CEO Peter Abbott said. The Andrews Labor Government is securing the future of the iconic Puffing Billy Railway with the introduction of recent legislation into Parliament today.

Embodying the meandering rail route by way of the landscape, the visitors journey is nuanced around the bush landscape. Menzies Creek MuseumLet your guests be truly immersed in a few of Australia’s rarest and most original railway artifacts as they dine and dance the night away on the Menzies Creek Museum. The museum is an hour’s drive from the CBD – or board Puffing Billy at Belgrave for an iconic 30-minute rail journey passing over the historic Monbulk Creek trestle bridge and through the forests of the Dandenong Ranges. Travel by way of the magnificent Dandenong Ranges, with lush fern gullies brushing past and Mountain Ash timber towering overhead.

The Santa Specials function face painting, a Little Elves play and create workshop,  Australian animal exhibition, Santa photos, gifts and a 60-minute return journey via the Dandenong Ranges. Puffing Billy steam prepare in the Dandenong Ranges is considered one of Melbourne’s major vacationer sights and it’s a must-do for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a neighborhood or visiting from afar, there are lots of opportunities to enjoy the heritage steam expertise at considered one of Victoria’s most iconic sights. Once at Lakeside, passengers can relax on the Railway Café, where a full menu and drinks bar featuring a selection of local beers, wines, and ciders are available earlier than the return journey.

The park has two lovely lakes, Lake Treganowan and Lake Nobelius, surrounded by magnificent timber, some of which are so spectacular that they’re listed with the National Trust of Australia. Visitors may enjoy many walking pathways that run by way of the natural bushland, providing peaceable vistas and opportunities to reconnect with nature. The park also has a playground and a wading pool that are open in the summer, making it an ideal location for families and nature enthusiasts. Ask any Melburninan about it and they’ll no doubt remember a time they climbed on board to make the scenic journey by way of the Dandenong Ranges. Puffing Billy’s steam engine billows smoke as you permit the stration and leaves a path by way of the bushes as you cruise alongside the tracks. Puffing Billy is certainly one of the most interesting preserved steam railways in the world and operates due to the tireless efforts of their volunteers.

Puffing Billy is located in the Dandenong Ranges, solely forty kilometres or one hour east of Melbourne. For details on tips on how to get to the different stations visit  puffingbilly.com.au/visit-us/getting-here/. Pre-order your meals and spend the rest of your time making reminiscences to treasure endlessly. Kids might be excited from the moment you arrive at the station due to the historic locomotives, the scent of the steam and the sound of the train’s whistle. This indoor attraction contains interactive play areas, thrilling rides, and imaginative building challenges. Children may unleash their creativity by constructing their very own LEGO masterpieces, whereas adults can go on a nostalgic trip, rediscovering the allure of their favourite bricks.

Embark on a guided tour and delve into the wealthy historical past and natural wonders of Puffing Billy Railway. Expert guides will lead you thru lush forests, charming villages, and iconic landmarks, providing fascinating insights along the best way. Providing limitless return travel on any tour train journey, access to the Menzies Creek Museum and soon-to-be Lakeside Visitor Centre, special discounts on distinctive dining experiences and occasions, in addition to main food Even four-legged members of the family can get in on the steam train enjoyable, with special monthly Lakeside to Gembrook Dog Express journeys on board enclosed compartment carriages. Enhance your expertise with audio guides, learning concerning the historical past, culture, and natural wonders as you discover.

At the time of the abuse Mr Drew was residing in Upwey and a pupil at Ferntree Gully Tech School, where he stated different students knew what was happening to boys on the vacationer railway. The court paperwork identify members of the preservation society and the board who knew that Whitehead was a paedophile as early as the Sixties. Mr Drew claims Victorian Railways failed to investigate Whitehead’s previous conviction, failed to analyze his actions with children and enabled him to make use of his position in the organisation to fulfill kids. In 1983, Mr Drew’s fascination with trains led him to volunteer for Puffing Billy alongside dozens of other youngsters and younger teenagers.

Step again in time to Australia’s oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railway, Puffing Billy, located in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges and only 60-minutes from Melbourne CBD. The train will take you previous old depots together with Menzies Creek, Emerald and Lakeside. Here, you shall be able to visit a museum, take a look at the present shop, and enjoy a scrumptious lunch or snack. Parents and grandparents can relive their very own childhood recollections while introducing the subsequent era to this unforgettable part of Victorian history. Share the grandeur and allure of a 3 hour steam train journey while savouring the First Class menu aboard the ‘Steam From Monday 26 September to Sunday 2 October, passengers travelling to Lakeside Station will discover a free spring-themed arts and crafts activity zone at the Lakeside Visitor Centre for little ones to enjoy.

Each carriage was crammed with kids, teens and adults chatting, snapping selfies and shutting their eyes as they leaned out into the wind. The whistle sounds because it approaches each curve within the observe, the engine turning into its own plume of steam and disappearing momentarily from sight. Passengers have been photographing and Instagramming like mad as they tried to capture the fantastic thing about this journey. Now, the carriages are the place the Harry Potter connection departs as they do not seem to be closed-in compartments but open-sided windows to the world. We all stuck our heads out the aspect of the practice because it chugged its way out of Lakeside station and began the 40-minute journey to Gembrook.

On Sunday, the state government introduced guests would now be capable of dangle their toes outside the carriages all through the forest to Gembrook. Most Puffing Billy trains start their journey from Belgrave, the headquarters of the railway. You buy a ticket for a specific departure time in Belgrave and may return from Emerald on any scheduled prepare. Most individuals choose to journey the route between Belgrave and Lakeside / Emerald Lake Park.

In maintaining with the Fun Run’s theme of ‘Kids Helping Kids’, all of the money raised has been donated to tasks supporting and aiding youngsters. The Fun Run is structured around 5 events, where youngsters aged three to eight years, run against Thomas the Tank Engine, and a sixth occasion sees 9 to 12 12 months olds working against Puffing Billy. Sign up to our free e-newsletter and obtain weekly updates on occasions and issues to do with kids on the Mornington Peninsula. The return journey lasts for a serene 2.5 hours, with a stopover in Gembrook Station the place you presumably can grab refreshments and winter heaters. It provides passengers the chance to experience the natural surrounds of the Dandenong Ranges at night while being immersed in a broad ranging gentle present designed by acclaimed lighting production firm Resolution X. The century-old custom of sitting on the carriage sills was banned about six years in the past, after a minibus didn’t cease for an activated level crossing exterior Menzies Creek and collided with the heritage train.