Description

This century-old steam train continues to run on its original mountain track from Belgrave to Gembrook in the magnificent Dandenong Ranges 40kms east of Melbourne. Puffing Billy was built to serve at the turn of the century and is a genuine relic of our more leisurely days. The Railway is the major survivor of four experimental lines used to develop rural areas in the early 1900s. Puffing Billy Railway is now a major tourist attraction and operates every day except Christmas Day, thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 900 dedicated volunteers.

Features

SEE THE WEBSITE FOR CURRENT TIMETABLE AND PRICING ARRIVAL TIMES: On weekdays, passengers are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their preferred train departure to avoid disappointment. We suggest you allow even more time on weekends as well as public and school holidays. GROUPS AND FAMILIES: Ensure you are ready to board the train 30 minutes prior to departure time. PuffingBilly is very popular and allowing extra time makes it easier to find seats for you all in the same carriage. DISCOUNT FAMILY TICKET: A family ticket is valid for 2 adults and up to 4 children (Gift vouchers available). CONCESSIONS: Concession fares are available to bearers of an Australian Health Care, Student, Seniors, Companion or Pensioner cards. Your signature may be required for identification. CHILDREN: Children are aged 4 to 16 years both inclusive. Under 4 years of age, not occupying a seat, are carried FREE on excursion trains only, excluding special events. DISCOUNTS: Discounts are available for pre-booked group travel (20 or more paying passengers on a return journey) throughout the year, except on Sundays, Public Holidays and School Holidays.

Current Specials

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS 'Thomas the Tank Engine' returns to Puffing Billy in October and November. See 'Thomas' in full steam at our EMERALD town station.....entertainment for the entire family! STEAM & CUISINE WINE TRAIN Experience wine tasting at its unique best! Puffing Billy Railway is proud to present the 2012 season of the 'Steam and Cuisine Wine Train'. Travel aboard this century-old steam train and taste local wines with a sumptuous three course dinner to match! JAZZ ON PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY Jazz on Puffing Billy Railway will be trumpeting along with live Jazz music with the Mast Gully Quartet, great local wines and a dinner in the historic Nobelius Packing Shed. MURDER ON THE PUFFING BILLY EXPRESS Join us for an intriguing night of murder, mystery and suspense aboard the Puffing Billy evening dinner train special. This event is supported and acted by the Gemco Players Community Theatre. 70'S DISCO TRAIN From Motown to our town, dust off your platforms, don your disco pants and join us for a 'Disco Inferno' aboard Puffing Billy's evening dinner special. 'Tonight's The Night' to gather a group of friends and 'Dance The Night Away'! GREAT TRAIN RACE 6th May 2012 The annual Great Train Race isn't simply a race amongst the competitors. The exciting challenge is competing against the steam locomotive, Puffing Billy, over 13.2 kilometres through the hills and fern gullies of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. SANTA SPECIAL Santa is visiting Puffing Billy and very special trains have been organised so that Santa can meet as many families as possible. Travel aboard a delightfully decorated steam-hauled train for a journey through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. DRIVE A STEAM TRAIN Here is your opportunity to drive a steam locomotive along a winding, steeply graded narrow gauge railway, through a variety of scenery. WEDDINGS Celebrate your wedding day as you journey in our heritage dining carriages before arriving at our historic venue, the Nobelius Packing Shed located near Emerald. A truly unique and memorable experience! SPRING GALA This event has been postponed to Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 2013. Plans for weekend will include an expanded timetable including vintage trains.