There's something special about travelling on an old steam train - the whistle blowing, the steam billowing into the sky and the chug-chug-chugging along the tracks. It really takes me back to a bygone era, especially in an old gold rush region like the Victorian Goldfields.
We parked the car at Maldon Station and boarded the lovingly restored steam locomotive, J549 Robert Frewin, for the 10:30 trip to Castlemaine and back. The VGR is a not-for-profit organisation of volunteer train enthusiasts and locals working to preserve and maintain the tourist railway. Memberships are available.
A comfy booth was our designated seating until we reached the station at Muckleford. The conductor then allowed us to sit in the open guard's van at the rear of the train, for the next leg of the journey to Castlemaine.
The train travelled through the Box-Iron Bark forest, across 4 or 5 bridges and alongside roads where friendly locals gave us a wave as we tooted past.
We arrived back in Maldon at 12:30 - just in time for lunch and a wander around the beautiful old historic town.
Where:Castlemaine and Maldon Railway Stations
99 Shiel Street, North Melbourne
When:Wed and Sun and special event days
Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.30pm
Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.30pm
Monday
to Friday 10.00am to 4.30pm (excluding public holidays) and the second
and last Saturday of every month. - See more at:
http://prov.vic.gov.au/visiting-us#sthash.lrTejqnp.dpuf
Why:steam train, history
How Much: Fares vary
Related posts: Maldon , Old Castlemaine Gaol
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