A Three-Day Steam Rail Journey with DownsSteam

Embark on an unforgettable three-day heritage rail journey as DownsSteam invites you aboard a magnificent steam-hauled overnight tour to the far south-west of Queensland. This historic trip celebrates the Grand Opening of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre, in partnership with the Thallon Progress Society – marking the return of heritage passenger rail to Thallon after more than a decade.

Travel behind the powerful Queensland Railways BB18¼ Class steam locomotive No. 1037, one of the most iconic steam locomotives ever built for Queensland’s mainline network. Experience the sights, sounds and atmosphere of classic steam rail travel as No.1037 hauls our heritage carriages across the Darling Downs, through cotton and grain country, past the famous Yelarbon Silos, and deep into the vast plains of south-west Queensland.

Relax in vintage comfort while enjoying the rhythm of steam rail travel. With all meals, accommodation, transfers, and touring included, this unique journey offers a rare opportunity to experience multi-day heritage steam travel in true country style.

🚉 Your Itinerary

Day 1 – Friday 27 March 2026

Toowoomba → Goondiwindi

• 7:00am – Guest check-in at Toowoomba Railway Station (luggage loaded by crew)
• 8:00am – Departure behind BB18¼ Class steam locomotive No.1037 south through Warwick and the Southern Downs
• Morning tea served onboard
• Comfort stop at Warwick Station
• Lunch served onboard during the run west across grain and cotton country, including views of the famous Yelarbon Silos en route
• 5:00pm – Arrive Goondiwindi and transfer to accommodation
• Evening Dinner included, followed by time to explore Goondiwindi’s relaxed country hospitality

Day 2 – Saturday 28 March 2026

Goondiwindi → Thallon → Goondiwindi

• Breakfast at your hotel
• 8:00am – Depart Goondiwindi by heritage steam train hauled by BB18¼ No.1037
• Travel west across the vast plains to Thallon
• Participate in the Grand Opening of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre at 12:00pm
• Pub BBQ Lunch included in Thallon township at the Francais Pub
• Bus tour around Thallon to Rogue’s Gallery / Silo Art / Info Station / Sculptures (led by local guide)
• Tour the Rail Heritage Centre and Thallon Park (Giant Wombat Sculpture & War Memorial) with local guides
• Afternoon return journey to Goondiwindi
• Dinner included at a local venue with DownsSteam hosts

Day 3 – Sunday 29 March 2026

Goondiwindi → Toowoomba

• Breakfast at your hotel
• Morning departure eastbound through cotton and grain country
• Morning tea and lunch served onboard the steam train
• Comfort stop at Warwick
• 5:30pm – Return to Toowoomba Railway Station

Ticket Types

Ticket Only - single seat

This ticket is for the train ride only, includes onboard track pack meals and other items, but does not include accommodation, transfers and meals at Goondiwindi, does not include tour or lunch at Thallon, guests may conduct a self guided tour around Thallon.

🍷 Single, Couple, Twin Share - Your Ticket Includes

Return rail travel aboard a heritage DownsSteam steam-hauled passenger train behind BB18¼ Class locomotive No.1037
Two nights’ accommodation in Goondiwindi (twin share or single)
All meals: daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and morning/afternoon teas
Exclusive entry & tour of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre Grand Opening
Sightseeing: Yelarbon Silos, Warwick highlights, and Thallon township tour
All ground transfers, luggage handling, and guest services
Dedicated DownsSteam hosts throughout the journey