Vision of the Gulflander
Queensland Rail is offering an amazing career opportunity to a successful candidate willing to embark on a new adventure to outback Queensland to drive the legendary Gulflander tourism service from Normanton to Croydon.
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Jim Benstead said it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, with the current Officer in Charge vacating the position after 12 years to drive steam trains in Tasmania.
“Our Gulflander is known as 'the legend of the outback' and has been taking visitors 151km between the outback North Queensland town of Normanton and the historic gold rush town of Croydon for 131 years," Mr Benstead said.
“The Officer in Charge will drive the 1950s red railmotor, affectionally known as the 'Tin Hare,' through wetlands and grasslands to the arid Savannah on a journey like no other, providing commentary on the countryside.
“The Gulflander takes around 7,000 passengers per year in grand style and is a much-loved journey by visitors who welcome the diversity of the outback, taking in incredible beauty most people never get to see.
“The Officer in Charge role also comes with air-conditioned three-bedroom accommodation in Normanton, which is known as the town where the outback meets the sea, with excellent fishing and plenty of railway history.
“We're incredibly proud of the role the Gulflander plays in regional Queensland's tourism economy which is why we're looking for a person who is customer focused and has a genuine interest in the history and heritage of our railway and trains."
Mr Benstead said the Officer in Charge role was diverse, and the successful candidate wouldn't just drive the train but also deliver all aspects of the Gulflander tourism rail service to satisfy our customer expectations, train maintenance, and station operation and infrastructure needs.
“We're looking for someone with a diverse range of skills including a Certificate III in Engineering (Mechanical) or equivalent," Mr Benstead said.
“There's plenty to see and do in Queensland's unique Gulf Country on days off. The 1,326 resident town of Normanton has a seasonal wetlands area that has native wallabies, birds, goannas, freshwater and saltwater crocodiles but the most famous croc in town is a replica model of Krys, the Savannah King - the largest saltwater crocodile ever found in the world.
“There's also the big barramundi measuring 6 metres long symbolising the town's fishing culture in the Norman River and these attractions, along with the Gulflander, lure plenty of tourists to the area each year," he said.
To apply for the role visit the Queensland Rail Careers Page. Applications close on 8 January 2023.
ENDS