Community & Business
24 May, 2024
Gulflander rolls again
THE rain is gone, the wild flowers are blooming and the Gulflander is back and ready for its seasonal trip from Normanton to Croydon along the heritage-listed line.
The return of the Gulflander was originally delayed due to the higher-than-average rainfall and floods that devastated the region, however, a swift comeback was made and this year the Gulflander will be chugging along from 15 May up until 31 October.
“The recent wet weather also means passengers will be in for a picturesque journey with the rainfall transforming the journey’s landscape into a flourishing oasis,” executive general manager regional operations Louise Collins said.
“This trip is like no other. The line was originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton to the gold fields of Croydon.
“It is a tribute to the early pioneers of the Gulf country and the railway line still retains the original rail and sleepers laid between 1888 and 1891.”
The line is the only line in Queensland still measured in miles and was never connected to the state rail network. Even though the rail was laid between 1888 and 1891, the Gulflander train itself wasn’t built until 1950 in Ipswich.
“I’m very excited to have the opportunity to have my team and I deliver this unique and iconic experience to visitors coming into this remote but beautiful region of Queensland,” Queensland Rail officer-in-charge Garry Breitkreutz said.
“I have a passion for all things mechanical and a huge admiration and respect for all who contributed to our rich rail history.
“You only have to look at the beautiful buildings and machinery of our ancestors to see the skills that were required, skills that are being lost to technology today. So, I’m very pleased to be a part of preserving the past.
“Come join me on the trip. It will be a lot of fun and I will provide commentary on the local history, while pointing out unique sights, plants, and animals along the way.”
For more information, or ticketing visit the Gulflander website at www.gulflander.com.au or call 1800 577 245.
