
easy
6–8 hours
Suitable for travelers in average physical shape with light walking during stops and at the heritage centre.
Step back in time aboard restored Commissioner Railmotors on the South-West Rails: Thallon Grand Opening Day Trip. Discover scenic Queensland landscapes and celebrate the opening of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre in a unique heritage rail experience.
Saturday 28 March 2026 Limited to 20 Guests
Join DownsSteam for a historic rail journey aboard the restored Commissioner Railmotors to Thallon, celebrating the Grand Opening of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre. Experience vintage comfort, scenic views of the Balonne Region, and community festivities, making this a unique opportunity to relive the charm of heritage rail travel.
Embark on an unforgettable heritage rail journey as DownsSteam invites you aboard the very first Commissioner Railmotor service to Thallon. 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 a decade.
Step back in time aboard our exquisitely restored 2000 Class Railmotors RM2004 & RM2032, known as the “Commissioner Cars.” Relax in vintage comfort as you journey across the Balonne Region, through cotton and grain country, to the iconic township of Thallon, and into the heart of outback Queensland. With lunch and touring included, this is a rare chance to experience the romance of heritage rail in country style.
🚉 Your Itinerary
Saturday 28 March 2026: Goondiwindi → Thallon → Goondiwindi
8:00am – Depart Goondiwindi by Commissioner Railmotors Travel west across the vast plains to Thallon, Participate in the Grand Opening of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre with guided tours, community celebrations, and local attractions Lunch included in Thallon township Afternoon return journey to Goondiwindi
🍷 Your Ticket Includes
Return rail travel aboard DownsSteam’s heritage 2000 Class “Commissioner Cars”
Exclusive entry & tour of the Thallon Rail Heritage Centre Grand Opening Sightseeing: Thallon township tour Dedicated DownsSteam hosts throughout the journey
💰 Pricing (All-Inclusive, includes GST and booking fees) Single Traveller: $140.00 Child Traveller: $120.00
🎟️ Limited Seats Available – Don’t Miss the Train!
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Thallon by heritage rail for its Rail Heritage Centre’s grand opening. With just 20 seats available, demand will be extremely high – secure your booking early.
Please Note:. • Passengers are strongly encouraged to wear flat, comfortable shoes as the experience will be held outdoors on varying surfaces including gravel, grass and some uneven walkways.
Guests should arrive at Goondiwindi Railway Station by 7:30am for check-in. Train departs promptly at 8:00am.
Onboard toilets are available on both Railmotors.
Concession fares are not available for this trip.
Light refreshments and snacks are also available for purchase from onboard the Railmotors
We will endeavour 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.
Unfortunately, due to the era of the Railmotors, wheelchair access is not available. Access requires using steps into the carriages.
Limited to 20 guests, ensure your spot by booking well in advance for this special Grand Opening event.
Queensland’s sun can be strong; wear a hat and sunscreen during outdoor segments and stops.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Heritage Centre and during brief outdoor breaks.
Check the local forecast to dress accordingly; some areas have limited shade during stops.
Thallon’s railway history dates back to early 20th century development that boosted agriculture and regional connectivity.
The Heritage Centre promotes preservation of rail history with sustainable practices, encouraging responsible tourism.
For comfort during variable weather conditions throughout the day.
Protect yourself from strong Queensland sun exposure on outdoor sections.
summer specific
Capture the vintage rail experience and scenic landscapes.
Stay hydrated during the trip and outdoor activities.
summer specific