The nostalgic charm of heritage rail travel is set to return to East Gippsland with volunteer-run organisation Steamrail Victoria announcing a special one-day vintage train tour to Bairnsdale on Sunday, August 24.
The Gippslander tour will offer passengers a unique opportunity to journey through the scenic countryside in beautifully restored blue and gold carriages dating back to the 1930s.
Pulled by heritage T Class diesel locomotives, the train will depart Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station in the morning, making its way to the heart of East Gippsland.
Local residents will have the chance to join the historic journey, with the train scheduled to travel through several key Gippsland stations, including Traralgon, Sale, and Stratford.
The experience promises to be a step back in time.
Passengers can enjoy the journey from saloon and compartment-style carriages, complete with traditional wood-panelled interiors and large, openable windows perfect for taking in the views and the classic clickety-clack of the wheels on the track.
An onboard kiosk car will also be available, serving a range of drinks, snacks and souvenirs.
The train is expected to arrive in Bairnsdale at approximately 12.46pm, where it will stop for more than two hours.
This will provide passengers with ample time to disembark, explore the town centre, and support local cafes and businesses for lunch before the return journey.
The train will depart from Bairnsdale Station at 3.55pm for its trip back to Melbourne.
Bookings are essential and are expected to fill quickly.
