DownsSteam needs your expertise! 0000007213 00000 n Reduced mobility access is available on specific carriages. With a love of art and travel, Giovanna holds a masters degree in fine arts and a Diploma in Tourism. I have a background as a professional squash player and undertook an accountingand finance degree in the background. The Spring Bluff Railway Station was built in the 1860s to allow trains a place to stop during the steep climb from Brisbane to Toowoomba. Posted Sat 30 Oct 2021 at 8:15pm Saturday 30 Oct 2021 at 8:15pm Sat 30 Oct 2021 at 8:15pm, . Are you interested in meeting new and interesting like minded people, being part of a friendly team, facing new challenges, gaining experience in a variety of roles and working to create a uniquely special tourist attraction for your community? Signup for our newsletter to get notified about our next ride. Brisbane to Toowoomba train services, operated by Queensland Rail Travel, depart from Brisbane Roma Street station. His career has gifted him the opportunity to meet a very wide range of people from diverse backgrounds and he thoroughly enjoys engaging with new people. She joined Railway Adventures in October 2018 and plays a key role in the organisation and fulfilment of every tour in the program. Subscribe to our newsletter and get exlusive first minute offers straight into your inbox. The steam train pulls the original Sunlander cars of the 1950s which the QLD Pioneer Steam Railway have spent close to . Excellent service! Having a private train at your disposal for an adventure around this magic island is a rare treat and a great way to immerse yourself in the scenery and culture of the country., he enthuses. Eighty-four countries (and many varied careers) later, she still considers travel to be the most exciting and broadening of experiences. 0000043016 00000 n The longest running floral event of its kind in Australia, dating back to 1950, visitors travel far and wide to see the citys gardens in full bloom. 0000090572 00000 n The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date. Hayley has experienced many aspects of the travel industry. C17 is a steam locomotive with eight driving wheels and a 17" cylinder, originally built between 1920 and 1953. Win a small business promotional package worth $5,000 to advertise on Must Do Brisbane! Are you ready to ride some of the most beautiful rail journeys on earth? DownsSteam needs your help! The station shop and education carriage is also open by appointment. Internationally, hes travelled throughout NZ, Cook Islands, North America, UK, and Thailand. Reduced mobility access is available on specific carriages. A return trip on the shuttle costs $20 for adults, $10 for kids and infants ride free. Bulk Cement on QR. Shorter trips to Nobby and Pittsworth will celebrate our regions rich heritage. We had a magic morning. htRmHSQ~k996c?rA&RCFP5$a00[I#)}P=ry8 8@0F)~. After more than a decade leading tours he decided to establish Railway Adventures in 2012. All services run direct with no transfers required, and take on average 3h 50m. John says Its hard to define a favourite destination, as I still get a buzz out of visiting new destinations. - Sunshine Express. An inland rail line linking Melbourne and Brisbane via Wagga Wagga, Parkes, Moree and Toowoomba has been commissioned by the Australian Government, with $300 million committed to finalise planning, engineering design and environmental assessments. Choosing either a coastal route or an inland journey, patrons are looked after by the Rainbow Serpent who created the mountains and rivers according to aboriginal lore. His career in Scotland was in banking, helping him to be the careful organiser that he is today. How many daily bus connections are there between Toowoomba and Brisbane? Queensland Rail Travel operates a train from Brisbane Roma Street to Toowoomba twice a week. The train will consist of wooden carriages from QR's heritage fleet. Mike has also worked in production of educational content, corporate marketing and information programs, training materials for the Australian Armys Aviation Corps, news gathering and training and operational reporting for Queensland Fire and Rescue Service. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Its significance stems from 150 years of railway history and the attraction of its beautiful landscaped gardens. My travel career began when I jumped off a truck in Morocco and somehow got work with a holiday company there. From 1 August 2022 almost all restrictions have been lifted for travel on our railway. His interest in rail was sparked as a youngster by watching steam trains shunt in the yards at Nyngan, and later by regular travel on the Western Mail between Dubbo and Sydney to attend university. Since 1957. Enjoy a mid-week staycation at BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park between Sunday to Thursday, and kids eat free with any paying adult! are all iconic trains that traverse various parts of the wild Outback, Savannah and tropical rainforest landscapes of the vast state of Queensland. We acknowledge their spiritual connection to the lands and waterways and ask their ancestors to watch over us as we tread lightly on Country. The Workshops Rail Museum is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com, A classical music concert for curious first-timers & devoted aficionados alike, Dont miss the Grammy Award-winning banjo virtuosos, Rewind to the 80s with Mixtape at Metro Arts, Take a nostalgic Friday night trip back to the 1980's. . Initially in heritage railways when he was asked to join a volunteer working party at the Ffestiniog Railway in Wales. 0000430509 00000 n One of his favourite journeys is by private train in Sri Lanka. Toowoomba 1130 Carnival of Flowers Steam Train BB18 locomotive + Wooden Heritage Carriages as train M909 Arrive Depart Toowooomba 1345 Passengers on Spring Bluff 1430 1500 Helidon 1600 1620 Passengers off/on We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the country we traverse. Bundamba Racecourse Station (Out of Service During Covid) Located on T.L. Robert has led groups of like-minded enthusiasts on tours to places as diverse as South America, Pakistan and South Africa and more recently has been the celebrated tour leader on many Railway Adventure tours through Outback Queensland, Sri Lanka and India. Departing Tuesday, February 28, 2023 19:15 Brisbane 0000006821 00000 n The 'Downs Explorer' offers you a range of unique heritage rail experiences through some of the most picturesque countryside in Australia. Make sure to copy Registration number after successful submission. Since then, Railway Adventures has mounted more than 50 tours from Sweden to Sri Lanka, Tasmania to Transylvania, Britain to Burma and Venice to Vietnam, thrilling over 1,000 travellers. Date: 17 Mar 2021 25 Mar 2021. David took over as Tour Manager in Portugal in 2012 and specialises in the companys tours in Portugal, France, Austria and Sri Lanka, and some of the Spanish and Italian tours, though he has also led a tour in Australia. Surrounded by railway books and antiquities as well as being immersed in a household operational life of Queensland Rail, Mike soon found opportunities to travel with his father on locomotives. Downs Steam is in the process of restoring the only C16-106 QR Class locomotive left in existence. Over the years he has travelled extensively around the UK and most of Western Europe and has been leading groups for over 12 years on scores of railway-themed tours around the world, including the UK, Germany, India and Switzerland. Now, thanks to the tireless work of the DownsSteam volunteers that heritage is being honoured. Services depart twice a week, and operate Tuesday and Thursday. It has developed into a regional centre for business and government services. We had such an amazing day and appreciate the volunteers time and efforts. 0000056547 00000 n Chris followed with interest his friend Scott McGregors Railway Adventures, and made an offer to put together a Swiss Rail tour for Scott little realising that it would lead to him to becoming a guide for the company something that he has enjoyed doing ever since. The average travel time between Toowoomba and Brisbane is around 2h 30m, although the fastest bus will take about 1h 50m.This is the time it takes to travel the 66 miles that separates the two cities. For over 30 years, Mike has been trackside and on board trains capturing unique scenes of railways. (A $90; Conc $85; Child $50; Fam 2A+2C - $240)D. Take a short trip on the same train for to Yandina and return (for the locals). It is also referred to as the capital of theDarlings Downs. All aboard for a unique vintage steam train trip from Brisbane via the lush hinterland of the Sunshine Coast to the thriving township of Palmwoods. pentecostal assemblies of the world ordination; how to start a cna school in illinois The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers offers a steam train experience allowing you a scenic experience across the Lockyer Valley and ofcourse a visit to the big event itself. Jagera Community Hall South Brisbane, QLD. Downs Explorer is a unique destination where you can experience their museum and precinct, a delight for visitors of all ages. Here they enjoy the blissful serenity of the wildlife and bushland that surrounds them. Membership grew steadily and in 1945 a Division was formed in Victoria. 0000080808 00000 n Departing from Roma Street the train, which features wooden carriages from Queensland Rail's heritage fleet, will stop to pick up passengers at Northgate, Lawnton and Caboolture. Special thanks to Peter. 0000037450 00000 n Transform your holiday into the most unforgettable adventure of a lifetime with Railway Adventures. Corner of Fitzroy Street Tickets are available via The Workshops Rail Museum website or call QTIX on 136 246. Hayley has worked with people of all ages, nationalities and abilities, and understands how important holidays are to her passengers she is passionate about not only justifying the financial outlay but their expectations and dreams. Box 682, BRISBANE, 4001. Price: $3,985 Have you considered expanding your trade and professional knowledge, facing new experiences and challenges whilst contributing your unique skills in a fun and friendly team environment, as we work towards our transition into rail tourism on the Darling Downs? Hand cleansing and masks will still be available if required and patrons are asked to use normal sensible precautions. Downs Explorer operates steam train tours from Warwick to Wallangarra, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi and Inglewood at select times during the year - see the website for details. State-wide rail connections leave from Roma Street Station's Transit Centre, which is only one train stop away from South Bank. 0000010904 00000 n In the meantime please visit our. This week, a group of passionate rail enthusiasts at Toowoomba's Downs Steam Tourist Railway . 0000089706 00000 n Chris is a past president of the Australian Railway Historical Society, and often appears on radio and television as the societys media representative. Back home, they ran a Teahouse and Gallery for ten years before establishing a holiday accommodation management business the Blue Mountains. Route: Brisbane to Charleville Duration: 17 hrs Quicklinks Packages Onboard Destinations Timetables 0000010453 00000 n The Dreamtime Journey Coach Project was initiated by DownsSteam members wanting to acknowledge the contribution made by indigenous people to building of the range railway. 0000089148 00000 n A once in a lifetime and thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to ride a living, fiery steam engine working from the footplate beyond amazing!!". 0000048220 00000 n 0000026534 00000 n SCOTT MCGREGOR has been involved in the media for over 30 years as an actor, presenter, writer and producer,but sharing his love of travel, and particularly railway travel, is where his passion now lies. 0000090455 00000 n . His list of countries visited now exceeds 70. Tickets cost $26-$40 and the journey takes 3h 50m. Southern Queensland by Rail, Road and Special Steam Trains, The Mines and Lines of Newcastle and its Inner Suburbs with Ed Tonks OAM, Steam train journeys at Swanbank from Warwick to Wallangarra and on the Mary Valley, Museum visits to Workshops Rail, Cobb+Co, Olds Engineering and military museums, Explore heritage railway preservation collections at Ipswich, Warwick and Gympie, Special guided tour of the grand Jimbour historic homestead in Dalby, Private vintage carriage on the heritage train trip from Warwick to Wallangarra, Tilt train journey through the Sunshine Coast from Hervey Bay to Brisbane, Explore the national parks at Girraween and the Bunya Mountains, From the mountains, to the coast via rugged ranges, vast plains and lush hinterlands, Comfortable coach travel and luggage transport throughout. . Outside of this I love going on long hikes and traveling overseas and back to Europe for vacations. Letting fellow hobbyists know about the Toowoomba Model Trains, Craft & Hobby Expo See a variety of layouts where the trains run through the beautiful scenery. 0000007250 00000 n Other Divisions were subsequently formed in South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia and ACT. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. (A $105; Conc $100; Child $60; Fam 2A+2C $280)C. Stay in Palmwoods, have lunch at one of the several eateries or hotel and explore the town centre. Springtime Steam Spectacular to the Carnival of Flowers and Beyond 22 30 September 2021 BRISBANE WARWICK TOOWOOMBA DALBY MARYBOROUGH GYMPIE . Cue delicious local food and wine, show rides and live music from some of the countrys top performers. Mike has a wide range of interests including history, arts and travel. Prices start from $30 for a family (2 adults and 3 children), with children under 5 free. 0000047829 00000 n 0000080385 00000 n The Bunya Mountains National Park offer a rare insight into a very special botanical site, rich with Aboriginal cultural significance and from there its a scenic drive down the ranges to Gympie and another great steam train journey along the Mary Valley. Premium Economy class seats on the Spirit of Queensland, The lounge car on the Spirit of Queensland tilt train, Rome2rio uses cookies to help personalize content and show you personalised ads. The morning tea was magnificent and the tour was so informative. Watch the outback come to life as you pass through wide-open farming, grazing country to regional towns o f Dalby, Roma, Mitchell, and Charleville. The sleeper train,The Spirit of the Outback,theSavannahlanderand theGulflander(which has been running on the same timetable for more than 125 years!) Miles Outback Festival Heritage Steam Train Adventure -3 day tour Toowoomba Railway Station - Railway Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 Sep 16 Warwick to Toowoomba ONE WAY Warwick Railway Station - Brosnan Cres, Warwick, QLD 4370 Sep 17 Toowoomba Wyreema Return 2:30 pm Toowoomba Railway Station - Railway Street, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350 Sep 17 After being shut down for so long due to COVID they are finally able to start operating again. Just one example of how Scott finds inspiration for a tour can be found in Outback Queensland. The train runs, on average, 2 times per week from Brisbane to Toowoomba. Mende has travelled extensively throughout Europe, East Asia and North America, his main interest in traveling is immersing himself in the culture and the architecture of foreign lands. On 19th May 1933, six enthusiasts met in Sydney and formed the Great Railway Circle of Australia. 0000090944 00000 n Steam Train Tours. 0000043122 00000 n 0000048367 00000 n TELEPHONE: Ring (07) 3252 1759 with credit card details between 10.00am and 3.00pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays only. Bernadette has navigated groups of kids through Eisteddfod competitions, teens through personal development programs, and adults across countries. 0000010011 00000 n Need to know - Bookings close on Oct 31 and may be made via: MAIL: Forward the attached booking form with a cheque, money order, or credit card details to:- Australian Railway Historical Society Qld Div. He first became involved with tour leading almost a decade ago when he joined enthusiast tours in Portugal and was later asked to assist his predecessor with some of the larger groups. Anyone on or off Facebook The ARHS QLD will be operating two steam train excursions to Toowoomba for the Carnival of Flowers. Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway operates on various weekend services each month and is available for charter. The camaraderie that comes from both shared purpose and shared experiences on tour is an important aspect of the journey Scott adds. 0000022120 00000 n Come along and see the world of model railways where the grass is green and flowers bright and colourful. As for Scotts next escape, its most likely some quality time at Ruwenzori Retreat, his own personal train on the Great Dividing Range near Mudgee, Central NSW. From Brisbane take a rail journey through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs to Charleville. There are more than 150 public parks and gardens in Toowoomba. 0000091757 00000 n In my mind, travelling by rail is still the most wonderful way to immerse yourself in the country youre visiting. Touring the world with friends one mile and pub at a time; southlake carroll basketball. 0000056441 00000 n 0000042834 00000 n Find outmore information on the ToowoombaRegion and the many reasons you should start planning your trip 'out west'. 0000091446 00000 n Hello World Travel / Anne, 2021. Mariah is passionate about gastronomy and languages and speaks English, Portuguese, French and Spanish. Born and bred in London, Lianes early career was in Photography, Advertising and Graphic Design. A selection of used model trains will be for sale . 2021 Dec 16: An inflatable castle that was being used for a year-end celebration at Hillcrest . Trains that take you there Journey west to the Great Dividing Range. He has explored every State and Territory in Australia and especially enjoys spending time in regional and remote places. She has worked as a tour leader in Africa, Canada, all around Australia and New Zealand, as well as Asia, Europe and Greenland / Iceland. Win a double pass to The Poison of Polygamy at La Boite Theatre, Win a luxury 4-night stay for 2 at Eden Health Retreat, valued at $6,300. All services run direct with no transfers required, and take on average 3h 50m. Delicious meals, comfortable accommodation, a cast of interesting characters and plenty of intriguing stories complete this compact adventure along the route of an icon of Australias rail history. Discover the natural wonders of Queensland's southwest outback aboard our Westlander. DownsSteam would like to thank the Westbrook Correctional Centre for allowing Domi (meaning thunder) to solely undertake this unique and extensive art project over very short 19 weeks, as many other artists had declined due to the magnitude of the project. Trains run twice a week between Brisbane and Toowoomba. In the steam locomotive era, all the heavy goods trains from Brisbane had to have an engine at the rear to push them from Murphy's Creek to Toowoomba. Our Henderson Rd Bookshop is open 9am-3pm M-F and 9-1 Saturday. (A $105; Conc $100; Child $60; Fam 2A+2C $280)B. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Swanbank Station is Staffed on days when trains are operational. The grounds can be accessed most days of the week, however the train tracks are out of bounds to visitors as it is an operating line and trains can come through unannounced. Whether you are an experienced traveller or just beginning to explore this wonderful world, Railway Adventures has something for everyone. Toowoomba offers the best of both worlds, a relaxed lifestyle and easy access to Brisbane and the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. Being the hub of the fertile Darling Downs region has resulted in a city with extensive manufacturing, education, health, retail and professional services. Kevin spent two years living in Switzerland running his own travel company and has led cultural and adventure tours to over 60 countries since 2000. Prior to this Eamonns career has had a distinct heritage rail focus. Combine this with some incredible steam train journeys, and what do you have? 0000088998 00000 n (Source: Toowoomba to Gladstone Inland rail project submission) Cr Burnett . Apart from the obvious joy of seeing a country by train, travelling in a small group of like-minded travellers with a dedicated, experienced tour leader and knowledgeable, English-speaking local guides is what really sets Railway Adventures apart. We offer regular tours from Warwick to Stanthorpe and Wallangarra, Clifton, Wheatvale, Hendon, Toowoomba, plus special long weekends to Goondiwindi and Tenterfield, NSW. trailer <<2BCAB6EBB5364DFA8FF3DC66F1C7F8D4>]/Prev 1545455>> startxref 0 %%EOF 218 0 obj <>stream A never-before-seen perspective on Australias amazing wilderness, Join UK author Alexander McCall Smith at Brisbane Powerhouse, Say goodbye to summer in style by sitting on a rooftop drinking rose, Elevate your fitness routine with a diverse range of free classes for all fitness levels, including Pilates, Zumba & Yoga Flow, A green party boat cruise, the annual St Patrick's Day parade and a fantastic Irish concert - three of the top ways to celebrate, From sunset opera by the river, 2-day cocktail expo, and stunning arts and food night market to a secret new laneway bar some top things to do, Get into the Irish spirit this St Patrick's Day weekend with a stunning dance performance that has wowed the world. Rustic, character-filled, zig-zagging railways of Burma, opulent hotels on wheels in India South Africa and Sri Lanka, steam-hauled heritage trains in some of the most staggeringly scenic parts of the world, dinky little rail-cars in outback Queensland, bullet trains in Japan, cliff-hugging lines in Switzerland and Norwayif it travels on a rail track, Im there!, exclaims self-confessed train travel tragic, Scott McGregor. He flew internationally with QANTAS Airways for some 20 years. ANNUAL EVENTS: Australia Day; Mothers Day/Fathers Day Breakfast; Carnival of Flowers Week. 0000089073 00000 n Alan has had an interest in railways since he was a young child, having grown up living next to the Great Central Railway (GCR) in Leicestershire until its closure in 1969, when he joined the GCR Main Line Preservation Group (MLPG). The road distance is 125.5 km. History and train buffs are invited to join a recreation of Queenslands first rail journey to historic Grandchester Station on board the authentic heritage Grandchester Express. 0000062662 00000 n The Swanbank Collier is a 1 hour 10 minute trip from the scenic Swanbank station set in idyllic lakeside grounds. Your email address will not be published. How far is it from Brisbane to Toowoomba? Platforms 4 to 9 are part high level and part standard level - because the high level platform cannot be built on curves. Air accident: Tarago, New South Wales: 6: 1992 Jun 19: . Carnival of Trains. 0000090380 00000 n A truly great day out to check out the history of rail in Toowoomba region. 0000043047 00000 n 0000003049 00000 n All Aboard! Toowoomba truly has something to offer everyone. With a formal opening in 2003 and the railway renamed the West Coast Wilderness Railway, Eamonn led the team and became its first Chief Executive Officer. Please subscribe for the latest news and upcoming tours. With Rail South America, the journey is more important than the destination. Choose from one of our prepared itineraries or create your own. 106 Pride of Toowoomba, a branchline diesel locomotive, railmotor, Stainless Steel Brisbane Suburban and Air-Conditioned Sunlander coaches. Prior to this he was invited to project manage the rebuilding and reopening of the ABT Railway in Tasmania. Swap the hustle of the city for lush green hills, award-winning wineries, farm stays, glamping and roaring fireplaces in friendly country villages discoverall thisin Southern Queensland Country. Compare your options: plane, train, bus, car, ferry, bike share, driving and walking directions all in one search. 0000037353 00000 n 0000025117 00000 n For 2 weeks every year Scott charters the Viceroy Special heritage train to tour the island on a gentle rail cruise with a lucky group of travellers. Springtime Steam Spectacular to the Carnival of Flowers and Beyond - 22 - 30 September 2021 BRISBANE WARWICK TOOWOOMBA DALBY MARYBOROUGH GYMPIE Scott McGregor's Railway Adventures tour is more than just a holiday, it is a unique way to experience the world. 0000006406 00000 n Need to know - The special steam train is scheduled for the 2.5 hour round trip, departing from The Workshops Rail Museum at 10am on 6 October 2018. FAX: Fax the booking form and credit card details to:- (07) 3252 1767. FARES: (including GST) Phil has spent most of his life in travel related work and pleasure. Time spent abroad as a child ignited a curiosity for the world and an appreciation of the unique character of each destination. Recommended Bus Take the bus from Brisbane to Toowoomba 1h 45m $21 - $50 Train Take the train from Brisbane Roma Street to Toowoomba 3h 50m After 30 years in the finance industry Chris turned his attention back to his passion, working with the heritage steam locomotive 3801, and later, managing the Railway Bookshop on Sydneys Central station. Whilst still involved with the development of itineraries for Guidepost Tours and Railway Adventures, Bob is heavily involved with Heritage Rail Groups in New South Wales, is qualified in Rail Safety and Track Awareness, and travels regularly on steam and diesel tours as train manager or in other capacities. 0000005730 00000 n You'll find the Warwick Railway Precinct on the corner of Hamilton Street and Fitzroy Street where the old Warwick Locomotive Depot used to be, (closed in 1970). "The financial case for the Toowoomba to Gladstone rail are superior to that of Toowoomba to Brisbane." In the view of Mr Abbott and the GPC, an extension to Gladstone would be cheaper to construct than a line from Toowoomba into the dense heart of Brisbane and the value generated over time would exceed that of a Toowoomba to Brisbane link. THE TRAIN: Subject to availability, BB18 locomotive No. 0000061098 00000 n Prices start at $150AUD per night. tartarus percy jackson fanfiction birmingham tv presenters steam train brisbane to toowoomba 2021 . Book online! The list continues to grow. Welcome to the Sunshine Express Operating rail tours in Queensland since 1957 There are currently no upcoming Tours. There are other opportunities to also experience train rides if you are willing to take a short trip outside of Brisbane. Train Experiences outside Brisbane. 0000037942 00000 n The schedules shown below are for the next available departures. To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. 0000061214 00000 n Train lovers will thoroughly enjoy the museum carriage! Required fields are marked *. Barbara has been part of the Railway Adventures tour leader team since April 2021 and loves being part of a like-minded group that supports a well-planned and inspirational itinerary, creating lifelong memories with enthusiastic passengers. A fluent Italian speaker and a lover of all things Italian, a move from corporate travel to Air Zimbabwe, introduced a new passion, all things African. As a keen photographer he has photographed a number of rail operations there. 50 were here. Thank you so much for allowing us to use your railway station and rolling stock for our wedding photo shoot. 0000015081 00000 n He holds an Advanced Diploma (hons) Tourism Management. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. For arrival and departure times for public transport to and from South Brisbane Railway Station . Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday 9am to 3pm ~ Entry donation $5/adults. 0000009666 00000 n Toowoomba crowns the edge of the Great Dividing Range 700 metres above sea level, overlooking the Lockyer Valley. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. In May 1936 the name was changed to Australian Railway and Locomotive Historical Society and further changed to Australian Railway Historical Society in 1951. 0000426631 00000 n 0000061032 00000 n While in South Africa he also turned to wildlife and landscape photography. There is a standard gauge connection to Sydney but this is just 100 or so miles long between the capital, Brisbane and the southern border. (A$25; C$10). Every year, Toowoomba celebrates its reputation as the Garden City with the most spectacular display of spring flowers during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. From there we turn North West and venture across the rich Darling Downs to Dalby soaking up the rural landscapes, historic homes and colonial histories. As a child growing up in Sydney he witnessed the very last of the days of steam on the railways of NSW and thus began a fascination for trains and rail travel that continues today. He also owns and operates RUWENZORIan Orient Express-style tourist retreat on the Great Dividing Range near Mudgee. His high school was near a major railway line, and he loved to spend time after school watching the parade of freight and passenger trains. Greyhound Australia. Peter is a Tour Leader, a Rail Enthusiast, and a Tour Organiser speciali s ing in Railway Journeys in South America. As a result one SX coach has been re-purposed as a permanent art installation. By train you are completely immersed in culture and adventure, exploring the most scenic corners of the world in the comfort of a luxury train.