The chug of the engine, the rhythmic knock against the tracks, and the rushing wind against open carriages—this is what RailFest is all about.
Every year, SteamRanger Heritage Railway opens its depot to the public for a fascinating look into one of the most beautiful modes of transport. It’s one that’s been shaping trade, travel, and transport since the early 1800s.
For one day only, on Sunday, 25 May, you’ll get a rare look into operations behind the world’s longest heritage railway.
The day will also open up five limited return train trips between Mount Barker and Bugle Ranges on the Rx-class locomotives. The scenic journey climbs over Philcox Hill, the highest point of the route, and winds into the foliage-rich Bugle Ranges. For the return leg, Diesel locomotive 958 will assist in bringing the historic train back to Mount Barker.
The day of festivities runs from 9:30am to 4:30pm, and features family-friendly activities, including displays of live steam locomotives, restoration projects, and rail maintenance machinery.
As you exit through the gift shop, you’ll get the opportunity to browse a railway memorabilia clearance sale and view historical rolling stock, including the 1907-built First Class carriage ‘Finniss’.
If you’re anything like me, that’s the perfect chance to snag some sweet, sweet railway merchandise.
Depot entry is a $5 donation per person, with kids aged four and under admitted free. All proceeds support the upkeep and restoration of SteamRanger’s fleet of heritage locomotives and carriages.
Locomotives will also be on display, including 621, F251, 520, and recently acquired diesel locos 704 and 845.
The SteamRanger Heritage Railway sprang to life in 1986 when the South Australian Division of the Australian Railway Historical Society set out to revive and celebrate the state’s iconic broad-gauge trains through specialised heritage tours.
The railway’s main route, the Victor Harbor line, was originally part of the South Australian Railways network. Passenger services were permanently suspended in April 1984 following a decline in patronage.
When the Adelaide to Melbourne line switched to standard gauge in the mid-1990s, SteamRanger seized the moment, moving its operations from Dry Creek to Mount Barker to safeguard the rare broad-gauge legacy of the Victor Harbor line.
Today, SteamRanger continues that mission with pride, heading into 2025 ready to showcase the very best of South Australia’s railway heritage.
Tickets for Sunday’s train rides can be pre-booked online, and if history tells us anything, seats expected to fill quickly.
Mount Barker RailFest
Where: SteamRanger Heritage Railway, Dutton Rd, Mount Barker
When: Sunday, 25 May, 9:30am to 4:30pm
For more information, click here.
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