Tickets will go on sale this week for the much-anticipated scenic rail journey between the Toowoomba Railway Station and Spring Bluff, as part of the city's annual Carnival of Flowers celebrations.
Queensland Rail Acting Head of South East Queensland Sarah Dixon said the diesel locomotive-hauled heritage carriages will operate from 16-24 September, 2023 from Toowoomba to Queensland's prettiest rail station, Spring Bluff, where customers can enjoy all the Garden City has to offer.
“It's a joy to announce the return of this iconic train journey from Toowoomba to Spring Bluff station this year," Ms Dixon said.
“Tickets will go on sale from midday this Thursday, 17 August 2023 and are sure to sell out, so get in quick!
“To support the growing demand for this unique rail experience, we're pleased to announce we've added an extra day to this years' service.
“Queensland Rail prides itself on connecting communities – we have a long history of both supporting and celebrating the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.
“Built in the 1860s, Spring Bluff railway station is a heritage listed station steeped in history; its beautiful, landscaped gardens make it an absolute must for carnival-goers this year.
“We have run the heritage shuttle and carriages since the 1970s and since then it has become a staple of the Carnival of Flowers each and every year."
In support of the local community, this year Queensland Rail will donate a portion of ticket sales to the Spring Bluff Railway Station Trust, so it can continue its work in preserving and developing the historic station and gardens.
The journey time is approximately 35 minutes from Toowoomba, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the prize-winning Spring Bluff Gardens in between trips.
Toowoomba Regional Council's Environment and Community Services portfolio chair Cr James O'Shea said the return of the Toowoomba to Spring Bluff train rides was an experience not to be missed.
“We have received huge amounts of interest again this year for this extremely popular service provided by Queensland Rail. The opportunity to step a board the heritage carriages is very unique," Cr O'Shea said.
“I highly recommend taking snacks and drinks with you to enjoy at the beautiful grounds of Spring Bluff Station. It is the perfect picnic location, as the trip schedule allows for you to take time to soak up the flowers, birdlife and history to be found at Spring Bluff."
To book your seat on Queensland Rail's iconic Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers shuttle to Spring Bluff, visit the Queensland Rail Travel website HERE .
Steam is also returning to this year's Carnival of Flowers with the heritage C17 steam locomotive, operated by Southern Downs Steam Railway, taking passengers for a two-hour journey between Toowoomba and Wyreema railway stations on Sunday 17 September.
For more information and to book the Downs Explorer Steam Experience, visit their website.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Daily schedule for the Toowoomba to Spring Bluff shuttle:
Two return daily departures from Saturday 16 September to Sunday 24 September 2023.
Morning round trip shuttle
• Departs Toowoomba at 9am, arrives Spring Bluff at 9.35am
• Departs Spring Bluff at 11am, arrives Toowoomba at 11.35am
Afternoon round trip shuttle
• Departs Toowoomba at 1pm, arrives Spring Bluff at 1.35pm.
• Departs Spring Bluff at 3pm, arrives Toowoomba at 3.40pm.
Adult tickets are $20, and Children 4 to 15 years are $10 for the return rail experience.
ENDS