125 Years of rail-ly iconic Puffing Billy Railway

Puffing Billy Railway celebrated its 125th anniversary during an inaugural Community Open Day. The historic milestone event on Sunday 14 December honoured the railway’s rich history and enduring connection to local community.

To mark the occasion, complimentary train services were available for residents living within a 10 km radius of any Puffing Billy Railway station.

Local community groups hosted a variety of activities to celebrate the local community and its history at stations across the line.

At Menzies Creek, visitors enjoyed face painting and a barbecue with the Emerald Country Fire Authority. While the station museum, cafe and boiler house were open for guests.

In Emerald, the RSL guided guests along the Anzac Walk with local buskers providing entertainment throughout the day. Further along at Lakeside, the Emerald Art Society presented an Art Show by the lake, complemented by a special Emerald Museum display at the Lakeside Visitor Centre.

Cockatoo featured a display of the station’s history, and enjoyed the Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre. Santa made an appearance at the Eastern Dandenong Ranges’ office at The Base. This was alongside face painting for the littlest steam adventurers.

The celebrations continued at Gembrook. The Gembrook Craft Group demonstrated traditional spinning, and the Motorist Distillery opened its doors to visitors.

These activities highlighted the vibrant community spirit that has supported Puffing Billy Railway for generations. It made the milestone a truly memorable occasion.

The Puffing Billy Railway has been part of Victoria’s railway history for 125 years. It has welcomed over 487,000 passengers each year. That's more than 11 million since reopening in 1962.

From passenger guides to engine cleaners to drivers, over 300 volunteers support up to 6 daily journeys on the railway. Puffing Billy Railway is currently sold out months in advance. This reflects its status as a premier Victorian attraction which is highlighted by a calendar of in-demand activities.

This includes iconic events such as:

• the Trail of Lights – an immersive night time light show through the Dandenong Ranges
• a Day out with Thomas featuring Thomas the Tank Engine themed rides and activities
• the holiday season favourite Polar Express Christmas Ride – an interactive festive experience with Santa meet-and-greet.
• the annual running festival – where participants race Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Lakeside.

To book your next trip on the iconic steam train, visit Puffing Billy Railway.