Night runs by three steam trains will highlight the NSW Rail Museum’s celebration of steam in the Southern Highlands town of Thirlmere.
It’s annual Festival of Steam is on again this weekend (May 16-17) and is expected to attract more than 25,000 people to Wollondilly Shire and the town.
A particular highlight will be this Saturday night (May 16) when three steam locomotives are due to lead a single train on two special runs that will be followed by fireworks over Thirlmere Sportsground at 8pm.
From historic train rides and vintage industrial machinery to live blacksmith demonstrations by Eveleigh Works, there will also be a street parade and an operational steam truck presented by the Powerhouse Museum.
Transport Heritage NSW CEO Andrew Moritz says the event is a remarkable showcase of historic technology from across the state.
“The historic locomotives and engines featured at the festival showcase a strong part of our state’s engineering history from the late 18th Century through to the 1950s,” he says.
“This year, we’re especially excited to showcase Locomotive 3265 on train rides, following its full overhaul completed in April through our partnership with the Powerhouse Museum.”
EARLIER TRAIN NEWS: Bety’s back at the Ekka for 160th milestone
FESTIVAL OF STEAM
Now in its 37th year, the festival on Saturday will feature train rides, a step inside the driver’s cab of a locomotive, watch the action from atop a Ferris wheel, explore the vintage park and take a spin on the mini‑train.
At the sportsground, there will be a family carnival with rides and activities to cater for all ages with a sensory-friendly session from 10am-12pm.
On Sunday (May 17), the village will make way for market stalls, the annual street parade, live entertainment, and more train rides and activities at the museum.
Tickets are now on sale at www.thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com.au.
