GET in quick is the message if you want to grab a ride on the historic locomotives that will be heading out from North Ipswich Rail Yard to Grandchester station this year.
Tickets for Sunday’s ride sold out in record time so rail buffs and fun seekers should keep an eye out for a new release of tickets of May’s historic journey.
The heritage steam train rides have returned as part of Queensland Rail’s 160-year celebrations.
The BB18¼ 1079 that sets off this weekend is one of the final 20 BB18¼ Class 4-6-2 passenger locomotives built by Walkers Ltd, at Maryborough, between 1955 and 1958.
It entered service with Queensland Railways in November 1956 and was retired from normal revenue service in October 1969.
Passengers will travel in Queensland Rail’s historic red wooden carriages past picturesque farming land and the historic towns of Walloon and Rosewood before arriving at Grandchester station.
Queensland Rail has partnered with the Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland Division (ARHS) for the steam train event calendar.
“This further strengthens the partnership with Queensland Rail that recently saw the heritage community group take over the lease for Grandchester station,” a QR spokeswoman said.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said: “There’s something magical about travelling by steam engine and Queensland Rail is committed to keeping our rich rail history alive with this partnership with the Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland.”
Australian Railway History Society Queensland Division President Steve Lamprecht said the society was thrilled to see the locomotives return.
“Steam engines feel like living, breathing creatures, with their own personalities, so it really is a special experience.
“We look forward to welcoming train buffs young and old throughout the year for an experience they won’t forget.”
For news about future steam train events, please keep an eye on Queensland Rail’s social media accounts.
