Get ready for a gin-credible adventure as Puffing Billy Railway joins forces with Four Pillars Gin – the masters of award-winning craft gins – to present an unmissable gin-themed train experience, Steam & Spirits, on Saturday the 5th April 2025.
Just as the Yarra Valley complements the Dandenong Ranges, so too do Four Pillars Gin and Puffing Billy Railway; two local icons curating an unforgettable evening that blends rich history, world-class gin, and the thrill of adventure against the stunning backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges.
all-inclusive activities
When you arrive, make your way inside for your opportunity to sip, savour, and soak in a range of all-inclusive activities at the Puffing Billy Lakeside Visitor Centre, including:
- Gin Tastings – get to know the impressive range of Four Pillars Gin, from timeless classics to innovative seasonal releases. There’s a gin for every palate, and you won’t want to miss a drop!
- Cocktail-Making Presentations – Join expert mixologists as they guide you through the art of cocktail making with Four Pillars Gin, teaching you how to craft your own signature drink. Each presentation includes two sample cocktails
- Live Music – groove to the sounds of a DJ as you sip a glass of gin and enjoy the surroundings.
- Meet the Makers – ever wondered what makes Four Pillars Gin so special? Meet guest speakers from the distillery who will share their expertise and passion for crafting the perfect gin.
- Lawn Games & Scavenger Hunt – channel your inner competitor with lawn games and a fun-filled scavenger hunt.
- Four Pillars Pop-Up Shop – take home a piece of the magic with exclusive Four Pillars Gin merchandise and bottles available for purchase at the pop-up shop.
- A Gift for You! All ticket holders will receive an exclusive Four Pillars x Puffing Billy Railway tote bag, filled with special discounts and offers that will make the day even sweeter.
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EVENT DATE
Saturday 5th April 2025
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SESSIONS
SESSION 1 | 4.30 pm to 7.00 pm
SESSION 2 | 7.00 pm to 9.30 pm -
LOCATION
Lakeside Visitor Centre, Emerald
Get Directions -
TICKET PRICES
Train Ride + General Admission | $100.00 pp
General Admission only |
$50.00 pp
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
No tickets will be available on the day of the event.
NOTE: This event is open to persons aged 18 years and over only. The Puffing Billy Railway Board practices the responsible service of alcohol. In accordance with the law, no alcohol will be sold or supplied to anyone under 18 years of age.
arrival options
The Steam & Spirits event runs in the evening at Puffing Billy Railway’s state-of-the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre, nestled in the picturesque Emerald Lake Park. Guests can choose to arrive by foot, car, or Puffing Billy steam train.
OPTION 1 | ARRIVE ONBOARD PUFFING BILLY
For those opting for the steam train experience, the journey begins at 6:30 pm with a scenic one-hour ride from Belgrave to Lakeside Station. As the steam rises and the wheels chug along, passengers will enjoy fresh air, breathtaking views, and the chance to take part in the time-honoured tradition of leg-dangling from the side of the moving carriages*—all aboard one of Australia’s most beloved heritage steam trains!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there – the real fun begins when the train rolls into Lakeside Station and passengers can sip, savour, and soak in the range of all-inclusive activities during the 2-hour stopover.
When the time comes to return to Belgrave, the train will be ready to welcome guests back on board for a leisurely journey, offering one last chance to take in the beauty of the region.
* No persons will be allowed to sit on the carriage sills on the return journey from Lakeside back to Belgrave station.
option 2 | arrive directly at the lakeside visitor centre
You also have the option to purchase a General Admission ticket and make your way directly to the Lakeside Visitor Centre to start your gin adventure there.
The Centre offers plenty of parking (council-operated ticket machines apply). Alternatively, arrive by taxi/ride share. For those living locally, wandering into Emerald Lake Park from nearby communities provides a picturesque start to the evening.
To ensure everyone's enjoyment, you can select from two General Admission sessions when purchasing your tickets (subject to availability). You will be given coloured wristbands, signifying your session time.
Gin-inspired dining
Indulge in a delicious gin-inspired menu at the Lakeside Visitor Centre Railway Café, designed to complement the flavours of your drink and keep you going through the evening!
OUR CAFE MENU FOR THE EVENING
- Chicken Burger served with gin pickles and chips
- Classic beef burger served with gin pickles and chips
- Vegan Burger served with gin pickles and chips
*All burgers are served with a side of gin salt - Arancini with gin-infused aioli
- Calamari salad with gin salt and gin-infused aioli
- Gin-infused salmon bagel with chips
- Chips with gin salt
- Scones with gin marmalade
Pre-order a gin-inspired grazing box
Gin Grazing Boxes are available for pre-order with your tickets and can be collected at Railway Cafe.
PLEASE NOTE
- Gin Grazing Boxes are only available for purchase with Train Ride + General Admission tickets.
- No alterations can be made to the Grazing Boxes.
- Bookings for Grazing Boxes close 24 hours prior to the day of travel.
