Ipswich Railway Workshops to the Historic Grandchester Station

Step Back in Time with Sunshine Express Rail Tours

All Aboard! Join us for our first heritage steam train journey of 2025 on Sunday, 18^th May, as we travel from the historic Ipswich Railway Workshops to the iconic Grandchester Railway Station, where Queensland’s railway story began in 1865.

Experience Queensland’s Rail History

Our journey will be powered by Queensland Rail’s heritage workhorse, Steam Locomotive BB18¼ No. 1079 “Bety”. Built in Maryborough by Walkers Ltd and entering service in 1956, this majestic locomotive has been lovingly preserved and maintained by the Queensland Rail Heritage team at Ipswich and continues to capture the romance of Queensland’s golden age of rail.

A Scenic Heritage Journey

After departing from the Ipswich Railway Workshops, we’ll cross the Bremer River joining the mainline where we will travel past many historic towns including Wulkuraka, Walloon, and Rosewood. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of open countryside and farmland as we make our way to Grandchester Station – the site of Queensland’s first railway, opened in 1865.

At Grandchester, you’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the station, grab a bite from food and coffee vans, and take in the charm of this heritage location.

Exclusive Bonus for Passengers

We’re excited to announce a special partnership between the Australian Railway Historical Society and the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops. All tickets include entry to the Workshops Rail Museum on the day of travel. Step into the award-winning museum to discover the rich history of rail in Queensland, explore beautifully restored locomotives, marvel at Queensland’s largest model railway, and immerse yourself in a place where history comes alive.

Why Join Us?

• Heritage Locomotives & Carriages: Travel in vintage wooden carriages, many over 100 years old, and relive the golden era of rail travel.
• Steam, History, and Scenery: A rare opportunity to experience Queensland’s rail heritage powered by authentic Queensland Railways Steam Locomotives operating on the mainline just as they did in days gone by.
• A Family-Friendly Day Out: Perfect for kids, parents, and history enthusiasts alike!

Important Information for Passengers

• Seating: Our Heritage Carriages feature narrow seats due to their historical design. If extra space is needed to please purchase an additional ticket (at a child’s price) for added comfort.

• Mobility: Access to the carriages requires climbing stairs and navigating gaps between the platform and train. Passengers with mobility concerns should take this into account.

• Timetable:
  • Departure from Ipswich Railway Workshops: 10:30am
  • Arrival at Grandchester: 11:30am
  • Departure from Grandchester: 1:00pm
  • Return to Ipswich Railway Workshops: 1:45pm
    (Times are subject to operational changes.)

 Ticket Prices:

• Adult: $58
• Concession Card Holder: $52
• Child (Under 14): $40
• Family (2 Adults + 2 Children): $180
  (Children under 4 travel free but are not allocated a seat.)

Seating is allocated, so please book as a group if you wish to sit together.

Secure Your Seats – Don’t Miss Out!

Our 2024 trips sold out quickly, so don’t wait to reserve your spot! Travel with us and be part of Queensland’s living rail heritage.

Book your tickets now and take part in this unforgettable journey into the past.