- Queensland's historic Gulflander service has resumed for 2023
- While the service always closes during the wet season, this season's heavy rain has delayed the reopening
- The service traverses the glorious Gulf Country
Visitors and locals can once again take a legendary journey on Queensland Rail's historic Gulflander travel train, when it re-commences services for 2023 on Wednesday 10 May, following its closure during the prolonged 2023 wet season.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the higher-than-average seasonal rainfall this past wet season had meant a longer than usual delay in re-opening the service.
The Gulflander operates out of North-West Queensland along the heritage-listed Normanton to Croydon line. From wetlands and grasslands to arid Savannah territory, the Gulflander travels through iconic countryside steeped in pioneering history.
The line was originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton to the gold fields of Croydon, but today the Gulflander operates as a tourism icon and a working tribute to our early pioneers.
The heritage-listed Normanton to Croydon line was never connected to the state rail network and remains the only line in Queensland still measured in miles.
Affectionately said to go from 'nowhere to nowhere', the Gulflander offers passengers a picturesque journey through the Gulf Country.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey:
“I'm pleased to announce the iconic Gulflander service will return to the track on 10 May.
“The Gulflander operates seasonally, subject to the wet weather season, and flooding across North Queensland in recent months prompted a later start to the Gulflander's schedule.
“Gulf Country residents well know the impacts of the recent wet season so it's pleasing to be able to celebrate this annual milestone.
“The recent wet weather also means passengers will be in for a picturesque journey with the rainfall transforming the journey's landscape into a flourishing oasis.
“From wetlands to the arid Savannah, the 1950 railmotor, known as the 'Tin Hare' ventures through countryside most people would never see," he said.
Background
Tickets start from $115 return for an adult and $57.50 for a child or concession. Customers can purchase tickets now with services resuming on Wednesday 10 May
For more information, customers can visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au or call 1800 577 245.
ENDS
Media contact: Lesley Major 0419 288 284