Puffing Billy Railway

The Rotary Club of Emerald & District is back for it's 22nd Kids Fun Run on the 24th of November and we're thrilled to host this special event at Gembrook Station!🚂🏃‍♂️

Join us for a day of fun as kids run for a great cause! Since 2002, this event has raised over $771,250 for children’s charities, and this year’s proceeds will benefit the Monash Children’s Hospital Cancer Centre.

Children aged 3 to 12 can participate in fun runs, and every runner will receive a show bag and certificate! 🎉 Plus, enjoy Puffing Billy rides, live music, and family-friendly activities!

📝 Registrations are open, so head on over to www.kidsfunrunwithpuffingbilly.org.au to register or donate!

Visual description: A group of children running in a previous Rotary Club of Emerald & District Kids Fun Run event. The children are smiling and wearing various types of clothing and footwear. They are running on the ground outdoors in a social group setting.

Just a train, some steam, and a whole lot of fun! 🚂 🌳🌿☀️

📸 credit: via Instagram

Visual description: A steam train travelling over a timber trestle bridge with passengers sitting on the carriage sill, dangling their legs. There are green trees and ferns in the background, and steam coming from the locomotive.

Interested in becoming a part of Puffing Billy Railway? Our next Volunteer Information Session is coming up on Thursday 3 October! 🚂

Whether you're passionate about trains, history, or just love working with a great community, volunteering at Puffing Billy Railway offers a unique and rewarding experience.

Join us to discover the many ways you can get involved, meet our friendly team, and learn more about what it takes to keep the railway running. 🛤

📍 Date: Thursday 3 October 2024
🕒 Time: 5.00pm - 6.00pm
💻 Location: Online - Join us by clicking on the link - https://bit.ly/3TRH8Fo

No need to register, just join us online! See you there!

Visual description: A volunteer Conductor watching a Crimson Rosella bird fly away from his hand. The person is wearing a dark blue Conductor's hat and rain coat, standing on the station platform beside a set of open carriages.

**THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT**

Ready to solve a ghostly mystery this Halloween? 🔍👻🚂

Join us for A Night at the Museum – Halloween Experience! 🎃 Step into a thrilling whodunit, where you’ll help solve the mystery of Barnaby Brakeman, a conductor whose life was tragically cut short and whose spirit now haunts the railway. 🕵️‍♀️

As darkness descends, hop on board Puffing Billy from Lakeside Station for a spine-tingling 50-minute return journey to Menzies Creek. Hang your legs over the carriage sill and brace yourself for eerie lights, spooky sounds, and scary apparitions! 👻 Once at Menzies Creek, you'll have 45 minutes to unravel the mystery and break Barnaby's ghostly curse! 🚂

🗓️ Dates - 3 Nights Only!
Thursday 31 October
Friday 1 November
Saturday 2 November

Tickets for this limited-time event are now on sale, so don’t miss out on the most thrilling ride of the year! For more information or to book, head to https://puffingbilly.com.au/events/a-night-at-the-museum/. 💻

Visual description: A graphic of a steam locomotive travelling over a bridge, surrounded by darkness and red plumes of steam for a Halloween experience at Menzies Creek Museum. The image features text promoting the event, A Night At The Museum Halloween Experience, including dates to buy tickets.

🎈 Ready for another unforgettable adventure? All Puffing Billy visitors can now enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on sunrise balloon flights over the beautiful Global Ballooning Australia! 🌅

To redeem this offer, visit their website - https://www.globalballooning.com.au/landing-page/puffing-billy-x-global-ballooning/ and enter the code 'PUFFINGBILLY10' upon checkout!

For over 30 years, Global Ballooning has been crafting magical experiences from the sky, floating over stunning views of vineyards, mountains, and maybe even some kangaroos! 🦘 Capture the magic with complimentary in-flight photos and top it off with a sparkling breakfast. 🥂

The perfect birthday or Christmas gift awaits! 🎁

📸 credit: Global Ballooning Australia

"First stop Puffing Billy Railway! 🚂 What's special is that all passengers can stick their feet out of the carriage! It's my first time experiencing this, and it feels new and exciting!"

Always a thrilling experience for first time passengers ❤

📸 credit: via Instagram

Visual description: A passenger sitting on the carriage sill of a steam train as it appears to travel through the Dandenong Ranges. The background includes a clear sky, trees, grass, and the railway track. There are other passengers in the background also sitting on the carriage sill during the train ride.

📣 We are excited to share that our new timetable, running from the 23rd of December 2024 to the 26th of June 2025, is here and packed with more daily adventures! 🚂

Bookings are NOW available, so get in quick and secure your spot before it disappears! 🥳

But that’s not all! Starting from the 10th of October, you can hop on board our Twilight Trains every Thursday evening! ✨ This magical 3.5-hour return journey from Belgrave to Lakeside offers stunning views of the Dandenong Ranges at dusk. 🌅 Sit on the carriage sill* and take in the fading light while traveling to the Lakeside Visitor Centre to enjoy a meal, a drink, the Lakeside Hall Museum and more!

Don't miss this enchanting evening under the stars! 🌙 For more information or to book, visit www.puffingbilly.com.au/experiences/excursion/thursday-twilight-train/ 💻

📸 credit: Dean Gifford

*No person will be allowed to sit on the carriage sill on the return Twilight Train journey.

Visual description: A steam locomotive on railway tracks during the night, emitting steam from its engine. There are trees in the background and the scene is illuminated by light.

🏠 Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dandenong Ranges, just a short 10-minute drive from Puffing Billy Railway sits Sun-Kissed Forest Garden, offering a serene escape for families, couples, and groups. 🌳☀️🌷

This enchanting Blue Stone accommodation boasts 8 antique-style appointed bedrooms and 5 luxurious bathrooms. Ideal for both relaxation and events, the property also features a multimedia room, and is also perfect for corporate gatherings, weddings, or group yoga sessions for a spiritual retreat. 😍

The surrounding lush greenery provides the perfect backdrop for a tranquil retreat, while their proximity to Puffing Billy Railway ensures a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation! 🚂 Whether you're exploring the scenic trails or simply unwinding in our peaceful garden, Sun-Kissed Forest Garden promises an unforgettable experience.

Book your stay today and discover the perfect balance of nature, comfort, and convenience; your home away from home in the Dandenong Ranges! 🙌 For more information or to book, visit www.sun-kissed.com.au 💻



Visual description: A series of images (both outdoor and indoor) of Sun-Kissed Forest Garden, a local accommodation provider in the Dandenong Ranges. The first image shows the front of the building surrounded by tall green trees and red steps that lead to the entryway. The second image is inside the house, and shows a bed and couch for guests to use. The third image is inside the house and shows a small couch and coffee table beside a small kitchenette for guests to use during a stay.

**THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT**

Guess who’s back? Thomas and all his friends! 💙🎉 Get ready for the Day Out With Thomas: Bubble Tour at Puffing Billy Railway this October 18-20! 🚂

Join Thomas, James the Red Engine, Diesel, and more for a weekend of bubble-filled fun! Hop on board for a scenic steam train ride and don't forget to dangle your legs as you ride from the carriage sill*, meet your favourite characters, and enjoy a bunch of hands-on activities at the Lakeside Visitor Centre! 🫧☀️🛤

Don't miss out on this bubbly day – grab your tickets NOW and ‘pop’ on board for an unforgettable time! 🎫🎫 Visit www.puffingbilly.com.au/events/dowt/ for more information and to book.

*Adult supervision is required for children 4-13 years of age when sitting on the carriage sill – this means a maximum of 2 supervised children per adult within arm’s reach. Children under 4 years of age are not permitted to sit on the carriage sills.

Visual description: A promotion for a "Day Out with Thomas" event happening on the 18th, 19th, and 20th of October at Puffing Billy Railway. The image includes a blue steam locomotive known as Thomas the Tank Engine beside text that mentions Thomas & Friends and encourages people to "POP'ON BOARD!", which is this year's bubbly theme for the event.

Volunteer Information Session Today! 🚂 Join us this afternoon and explore the diverse volunteer roles available!

While being a conductor, passenger guide, or station master is a fantastic way to contribute, there are many other ways for you to get involved - whether you’re interested in building maintenance, gardening, environmental conservation, or sharing your knowledge in education, there’s a place for you here! 🌿📚😊

Date - Thursday 5 September 2024
Time - 5pm-6pm
Join us online - https://shorturl.at/9cFRp

Meet some of the team and discover how you can help preserve the railway and inspire the next generation! 🚂

Visual description: Two volunteers in safety vests on the station platform. One volunteer is standing up on a step ladder, fixing a station platform sign, while the other volunteer assists from the platform.

⚠️ PUFFING BILLY RUNNING FESTIVAL POSTPONED ⚠️

Due to recent storm damage and ongoing safety concerns relating to trees and branches, the Puffing Billy Running Festival has been postponed from Saturday 7 - Sunday 8 September to NEW dates on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October 2024.

The Emerald Lake Park precinct has been closed by Cardinia Shire Council to both public and Puffing Billy Railway since Wednesday 28th of August for safety concerns.

Emerald Lake Park is the main venue for the Puffing Billy Running Festival, hosting the 1.2km and 5km events, the finish zone for the 13.5km and 21.1km events, race trains and car parking. Trees and branches in both Emerald Lake Park and along the railway corridor may be unsafe and at risk of falling on participants and volunteers and / or impacting the safety of train operations. Arborists will need to assess potential risks and act accordingly.

Without a suitable alternative race route or finish village to accommodate 3,000 race participants and train patrons, Puffing Billy Railway and SingleTrack Events have decided to postpone the event.

All existing participants will be automatically transferred to the new event date or may receive a refund if they are not able to attend the new event date.

For more detail, please visit puffingbillyrunningfestival.com.au

We apologise for the inconvenience, but safety remains our number one priority. Thank you to our community for your understanding.

⚠️ PUFFING BILLY RUNNING FESTIVAL POSTPONED ⚠️

Due to recent storm damage and ongoing safety concerns relating to trees and branches, the Puffing Billy Running Festival has been postponed from Saturday 7 - Sunday 8 September to NEW dates on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October 2024.

The Emerald Lake Park precinct has been closed by Cardinia Shire Council to both public and Puffing Billy Railway since Wednesday 28th of August for safety concerns.

Emerald Lake Park is the main venue for the Puffing Billy Running Festival, hosting the 1.2km and 5km events, the finish zone for the 13.5km and 21.1km events, race trains and car parking. Trees and branches in both Emerald Lake Park and along the railway corridor may be unsafe and at risk of falling on participants and volunteers and / or impacting the safety of train operations. Arborists will need to assess potential risks and act accordingly.

Without a suitable alternative race route or finish village to accommodate 3,000 race participants and train patrons, Puffing Billy Railway and SingleTrack Events have decided to postpone the event.

All existing participants will be automatically transferred to the new event date or may receive a refund if they are not able to attend the new event date. For more detail, please visit puffingbillyrunningfestival.com.au

We apologise for the inconvenience, but safety remains our number one priority. Thank you to our community for your understanding.

Interested in volunteering at Puffing Billy Railway? Join us online on Thursday the 5th of September from 5pm-6pm and learn about our railway, discover the variety of volunteer roles available, and hear firsthand from our dedicated volunteers. 🚂

Date - Thursday 5 September 2024
Time - 5pm-6pm
Join us online - https://shorturl.at/9cFRp

Whether you’re passionate about trains, history, or just want to give back to the community, there’s a role for you here. 👋

Don’t miss out - come along and see how you can be part of our iconic railway! 🛤

Visual description: Two volunteers waving at passengers from the station platform as the train starts moving. The setting is outdoors, with passengers sitting on the open-side carriage, dangling their legs.

Variety Day was a heartwarming success! 🚂 Seeing the smiles and excitement from all the kids and families makes it easily one of our favourite days of the year! 🌟

A big thank you to Variety - the Children's Charity Victoria and all of the volunteers who joined us in making this event unforgettable. Here's to more magical moments together! 💖

Big shoutout to Heath, the latest superstar from ABC's Hard Quiz Kids; a show where four contestants with different expert topics battle it out! 🎉

We were stoked to hear that Heath chose us as his winning subject and nailed the questions like a true trainiac champ! 🏆

After clinching the title, Heath swung by the railway to flaunt his giant trophy mug, and guess what we filled it with? Yep, coal! Here he is with our Driver, Chris, and Fireman, Tim, in the cab of NGG16, shovelling some of that coal into the firebox like a pro! 🔥

But that's not all—Heath is soon heading off to the UK with his dad to spread his Puffing Billy Railway wisdom at steam railways across the country. We know he'll make us proud! ✈️🚂

Way to go, Heath! We're thrilled you made Puffing Billy part of your winning journey, and we can't wait to welcome you back to the railway in a couple of years' time to volunteer with us! 🚂❤️

If you haven’t yet seen the episode, check it out online at https://iview.abc.net.au/show/hard-quiz-kids/series/1/video/CH2331V008S00

Visual descriptions available when viewing each photo.

📸 credit: ABC Australia and Heath's mum, Jess!

This year marks the 19th year of Tracksafe's Rail Safety Week, happening from 5-11 August 2024, and is an important time to remind everyone to act responsibly on and around all rail networks‼️ Let's keep our people and our tracks safe!🚂

Why is rail safety so important? Regardless of where we live, knowing how to stay safe around railways is crucial. Fatalities, incidents, and near hits can have a devastating impact on rail employees and families involved. Most of these incidents can be avoided with awareness and caution! ⚠️

What can you do?
▪ Trains can come any time, day or night. Always expect the unexpected and watch out for trains.
▪ Always obey rail signals and warnings.
▪ Stay off the tracks – it’s illegal and dangerous.
▪ Be mindful at railway crossings – look, listen, and be prepared to stop.
▪ Share this message to spread awareness!

Together, we can make a difference! 💛🚦 🚂🚈🚉🛤

That's right! Sitting on the carriage sill is back on the Gembrook section this weekend! 🚂 We’re so excited to see this iconic experience return in full swing across the entire railway line! 🎉 If you’ve missed sitting on those sills and soaking in the views, now’s your chance to relive the magic!

Legs dangling is back on track at Puffing Billy. Victoria is the only place you can do this!

Wonderful to join Daniela De Martino MP and the team at Puffing Billy Railway.

🚂 Nothing beats a Friday afternoon ride on Puffing Billy. Feel the breeze, take in the stunning views, and let the weekend adventures begin! 🌳🌞

📸 credit: DandenongRangesNaturePhotography

Visual description: A steam train traveling down the tracks through the Dandenong Ranges forest, emitting steam as it moves along the railway. Passengers can be seen from the open side carriages.

Who says age slows you down? This century-old heritage steam railway is proof that classics never go out of style! 🚂😎

📸 credit: via Instagram

Visual description: A steam train with passengers on board, some sitting on the carriage sill dangling their legs. The image features a Canadian Red locomotive travelling on railway tracks with trees in the background.

Rain or shine, Puffing Billy is always a blast! 🚂🌧☀️ Remember to book ahead online for your adventure and avoid the FOMO!

To book tickets, visit www.puffingbilly.com.au 💻🎫🎫

Visual description: A young girl holding the bar in the carriage. She has a smile on her face and is wearing a warm beanie and raincoat.

Early Bird pricing for the Puffing Billy Running Festival expires at midnight tonight! Run to that registration link below! 🏃‍♀️🏃🚂

Nothing beats the thrill of Puffing Billy Railway, especially when you're going around the bend with your legs dangling in the breeze! 🚂🌳☀️

📸 credit: Dean Gifford

Visual description: A steam train traveling down the tracks and through the green forest of the Dandenong Ranges with passengers sitting on the carriage sill. There is a sign indicating the train is passing through a railway crossing.

Planning a visit to Puffing Billy Railway these school holidays? 🚂 Make your journey to us safe and enjoyable by taking advantage of the Transport Accident Commission (TAC)'s Pause Stops at 15 Visitor Information Centres throughout Victoria. These stops offer vital resources to help you avoid drowsy driving and plan a safe trip! ☺️

✨ What you can do:

▪️ Plan ahead: Schedule breaks to keep alert.
▪️ Take a break: Stretch your legs and explore each unique local region.
▪️ Stay informed: Use the resources at Pause Stops to ensure a safe onward journey.

Spread the word and encourage everyone to plan breaks, stay safe, and enjoy their time during the school break! For more information, visit https://www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/pausestop.

Visual description: A group of people walking down a set of outdoor stairs. The people are wearing casual clothing and includes native ferns and trees in the background.

Here's a timeless throwback capturing the joy of sitting on the carriage sill across the generations! 🚂 In this photo, 88-year-old Al savours a ride on Puffing Billy in 2022, proving that some traditions never grow old! ☺️🛤

📸 credit: Graham Shotter

Visual description: A man sitting on the carriage sill of a steam train. The background shows outdoor scenery with grass, trees, and railway tracks.

Celebrating a century plus! 🚂🥳 Happy 110th birthday to Locomotive 14A! 🎂 This legendary engine has been steaming through history since 1914, carrying countless stories and memories along the way. Here’s to many more kilometres of adventure! 🛤️ 🎉

📸 credit: via Instagram

Visual description: Visual description: A steam train travelling across a timber trestle bridge in the middle of the Dandenong Ranges.