Queensland Rail is celebrating 160 years

​​​​​​​​​​​​

​Since our first train departed Ipswich in 1865, Queensland Rail has proudly connected communities across the state. Today, we transport more than 50 million customers a year and support the movement of 14.7 gross tonne kilometres of freight.

For 160 years, we’ve helped connect Queenslanders with jobs, education, services, and each other. As our population grows, we’re building a stronger rail legacy for generations to come.

​Join us in celebrating 160 years of rail!

Image Grid with Links

Steam Locomotive Trip: North Ipswich to Grandchester

In partnership with the Australian Railway Historical Society (ARHS), opens in new window, we’ll be running a special steam train from North Ipswich Railyards to Queensland’s first railway station - Grandchester (formerly Bigges Camp).

Date: Saturday, 26 July

Departure: 9am from North Ipswich Railyards

Return: Early afternoon

Experience: Celebration at Grandchester with food, music, entertainment—and birthday cake!

Tickets - sold out.

Happy Birthday Queensland Rail! 


Celebrate our official birthday at Brisbane’s historic Roma Street s​tation.

Date: Thursday, 31 July

Platform Entertainment (10am to 1pm): Free music, live performers and birthday cake

Steam Trip (11am): 90-minute loop from Roma Street to Pinkenba

Tickets - sold out.



, opens in new window

Birthday celebration at Freshwater station

Celebrate our birthday with us at Freshwater station, part of the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway​, opens in new window​

Date: Thursday, 31 July

Time: 8.30am – 10am

Entertainment: Free music, give-aways, and birthday celebrations.

Ekka Steam Train Loop

Our iconic Ekka steam train returns on People’s Day – Wednesday 13 August 2025.

 There are limited seats, please arrive early. 

Times are subject to change.

Carnival of Flowers Heritage Shuttle

We’re proud to present our annual Carnival of Flowers shuttle from Toowoomba to historic Spring Bluff.

Dates: Saturday, 20 September - Sunday, 28 September (inclusive)

Schedule: Twice daily - morning and afternoon departures

Trip: 2.5 hours round trip, with approximately 1.5 hours at Spring Bluff to enjoy the gardens, perfect to bring along a picnic​

Tickets: $22 per adult / $11​ per child (no concessions) avaiable from the Queensland Rail Travel​, opens in new window website. 

, opens in new window, opens in new window

H​​eritage train accessibility

  • Heritage trains are not accessible for customers in a wheelchair or using a mobility device. Access to heritage trains is via ladder style steps and a grab rail on the outside of the train. 

  • If you are travelling with a guide, hearing or assistance animal, please see our planning your journey accessibility page.

  • Our Customer Service team will assist customers when entering and leaving the train, however if a customer requires personal care, they will need to arrange for a companion to travel with them. 

  • Toilets are not available on the train but facilities are available at Roma Street and Exhibition stations. 

  • Due to the limited storage space, beach carts are not accepted on heritage services. 

  • Larger items must be collapsible and weigh less than 20kg.​
    ​

​Stay tuned for more exciting announcements and events.

Read more about the Queensland Rail journey​.​