Mary Valley Rattler at the Historic Gympie Station will relive their direct association with Australia’s war efforts by staging a dedicated ANZAC Troop Train service in proud collaboration with the Gympie RSL Sub Branch on Wednesday 23 April.
The train departs at 10am and returns at about 1pm.
Passengers for this special steam train service will be greeted by cadets in uniform and provided with a red poppy to honour the ANZAC spirit and cherish the memories or those who served.
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.
The Troop Train service will capture the spirit of the occasion with the solemnity of The Ode, followed by the comforting aroma of station-made ANZAC biscuits, a nod to tradition and remembrance.
The heritage steam train will evoke memories of the past as it travels through the scenic Mary Valley. The journey crosses the Mary River around an abundance of curves, over bridges and through gentle hills to the historic town of Amamoor where passengers can disembark and watch the turning of the engine on the turntable.
Tickets are just $69 per person. An optional Traditional Roast Lunch is available back at Gympie Station’s Rusty Rails Café for $35 per adult ($20 per child). It comprises garlic bread, pot roast beef, chicken, potato bake, roast potato and carrots, green beans and peas, traditional gravy and mint jelly. A vegetable lasagna will be available as an alternative. The lunch will conclude with pavlova and fruit salad.
VIP package is available with passengers travelling in the beautifully restored Club Car with bar facilities and a local cheese platter to enjoy during the journey. The lunch with a beverage at Historic Gympie Station and a special souvenir is also included, with the VIP package available for $159 per person.
Wheelchair Access is available on this service, and pets can also be brought on the train (conditions apply).
Bookings are essential and can be made via www.maryvalleyrattler.com.au or (07) 5482 2750.
