Gympie Station will relive its direct association with Australia’s war efforts by offering a dedicated ANZAC Troop Train service on Monday 25 April.
The ANZAC Troop Train will include lunch at historic Gympie Station, followed by a train service aboard the Mary Valley Rattler to Amamoor.
Lunch will start from 11.45am, with menus featuring traditional-style dishes from the time, including lamb rissoles, corned beef, apple crumble, and lamington cheese cake. A special children’s menu will also be offered.
The train will depart at 1pm, returning at 4pm. Passengers will be able to disembark at Amamoor Station and watch as the train is turned around on the revolving platform for the return journey to Gympie Station.
The current Gympie Station opened in December 1913, just prior to World War 1, and was the send-off and return point for Diggers fighting in both world wars.
Hundreds of residents from the Gympie region volunteered for the Australian Imperial Expeditionary Force in World War 1, including some 30 for the Light Horse Brigade, reflecting the region’s strong horse-riding skills.
Tickets for the return journey and two course lunch are available for $125 an adult and $60 a child (2 – 12).
A VIP Club Car will operate on the journey, offering priority pre boarding, VIP service to their seats throughout the journey, a beverage of choice in the licensed carriage, complimentary bottle of water and a souvenir stubby cooler. Tickets are $150 per person, and with limited seating, bookings are essential.
Wheelchair access is available on this service, with tickets needing to be booked directly by phoning the station on 07 54822750.
Bookings are essential and can be made via www.maryvalleyrattler.com.au or (07) 5482 2750.
