Adventure Collective Logo
Steam Train Adventure at Darling Downs Historical Rail Society - Brisbane

Steam Train Adventure at Darling Downs Historical Rail Society

Draytoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages including families with young children.

Overview

Ride historic steam locomotives through Toowoomba during the Carnival of Flowers with Darling Downs Historical Rail Society. This double-header steam journey and museum visit is a memorable family outing steeped in rail heritage.

Toowoomba City, Queensland

Double Header - Carnival of Flowers Special Event

For All ages • 120 Minutes • Great Family Fun! • Ride a Real Steam Train!

Events

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of the DownsSteam Double-Header Steam Spectacular during Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers. Ride behind two historic locomotives, C16 No. 106 and BB18¼ No. 1037, on a scenic journey. Enjoy museum access and guided tours, making this a memorable adventure for rail enthusiasts and families alike.

A Spectacular Double Header steam event using No 106 and No 1037

Duration

Approx. 2 hours (including station visit and museum access)

About

Celebrate Toowoomba’s iconic Carnival of Flowers with DownsSteam’s Double-Header Steam Spectacular, featuring a rare pairing of heritage locomotives C16 No. 106 and BB18¼ No. 1037. This thrilling double-header will power a return journey between Toowoomba Railway Station and DownsSteam’s Drayton precinct, giving passengers the chance to enjoy both an unforgettable steam experience and a behind-the-scenes look at our museum.

Step aboard our restored heritage passenger train and journey through Toowoomba’s rail corridor, hearing the rhythm of two magnificent steam locomotives working in unison. On arrival at Drayton, explore the DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, where volunteers will be on hand to guide you through our unique exhibits, restoration projects, and heritage collection. Whether you are a lifelong rail enthusiast or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Carnival highlight, this double-header journey promises memories for all ages.

The total rail experience will last approximately 2 hours. However we encourage guests to arrive early and view the steam locomotive and take plenty of photos

Departure Times

Morning Service

Departs Toowoomba Station: 8:00am Arrives Drayton: 8:20am Explore DownsSteam precinct until 9:30am Returns Toowoomba: 9:50am

Midday Service Departs Toowoomba Station: 11:00am Arrives Drayton: 11:20am Enjoy a sausage sizzle and explore the museum over lunch (approx. 90 mins) Departs Drayton: 12:50pm Returns Toowoomba: 1:10pm

Afternoon Service

Departs Toowoomba Station: 2:30pm Arrives Drayton: 2:50pm Explore the precinct until 4:00pm Departs Drayton: 4:00pm Returns Toowoomba: 4:20pm

More info

Please plan to arrive at Toowoomba Railway Station at least 30 minutes before departure.

Infants under 2 years old who are not occupying a seat travel free; however, if you would like to reserve a seat for your infant under 2 years old, please book as a child fare.

Minors of 16 and under may be booked under a child’s seat and must be accompanied by an adult.

Light refreshments and snacks will be available for purchase from the station café and the visitor souvenir shop will also be open.

Please note: due to the heritage nature of our coaches some seats may not have windows (as noted on seat maps and tickets), guests are highly encouraged to select their own seats when booking.

We will endeavor to honour advance seating requests, however, we cannot guarantee any particular seat. We reserve the right to assign or reassign seats at any time, even after boarding the train. This may be necessary for operational, safety, security or other reasonable reasons.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Photos

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to photograph the locomotives and secure your preferred seat.

Select Seats with Windows

Some heritage carriages have limited window seating; reserve early and choose your seat when booking for best views.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

You’ll walk on uneven surfaces at the museum and station; sturdy shoes improve comfort and safety.

Pack Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Queensland weather can shift quickly; bring layers for warmth or sun protection depending on the season.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Australian magpies commonly heard near railway corridors
  • Eastern grey kangaroos in surrounding open fields

History

The Darling Downs region was vital to Queensland’s rail development since the early 1900s, with Toowoomba as a key rail hub connecting rural communities.

Conservation

DownsSteam promotes heritage rail preservation and encourages sustainable tourism practices by educating visitors on the importance of maintaining historical locomotives and infrastructure.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Brisbane

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Camera

Essential

Capture the rare sight of two heritage steam locomotives powering your journey.

Sun Hat

Protect yourself from Queensland’s strong sun during the outdoor portions of the trip.

spring|summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Bringing layers helps manage varied temperatures between train rides and museum visits.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking on the museum grounds and station platforms safely.