WHO WE ARE
Puffing Billy Railway is Australia's premier preserved steam railway
Step into a timeless world of wonder with Australia’s favourite steam train, Puffing Billy, located in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and only one-hour east of Melbourne. Whether it’s energetic adventure, a touch of nostalgia or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone at Puffing Billy Railway.
Built in 1900 to serve the local communities that lived in the hills, carrying anything from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and plants, the railway is now a major tourist attraction that invites visitors to come and experience a century old tradition every day of the year, except Christmas Day, thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 300 volunteers.
All Aboard a Living Time Machine
Take in the magic of steam train travel from the moment you arrive, with the sight of the historic locomotives being prepared for departure at the station, the smell of steam billowing out of the vessel’s chimney and the evocative sound of the train’s whistle. Before long, our friendly conductors will help you on board the open-side carriages for a serene ride over the hills, across the iconic timber trestle bridges, down the valley and into the forest on the original mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
Puffing Billy Railway was built to serve at the turn of the century and is a genuine relic of our more leisurely days. The railway is the major survivor of four experimental lines used to develop rural areas in the early 1900s.
Community Committees
Puffing Billy Railway (PBR) values public participation and recognises that community and stakeholder support is critical to progressing its vision of preserving and sharing a world renowned, community-based heritage steam rail experience that captures the natural beauty and rich social history of Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges.
Puffing Billy Railway encourages community members, groups, and volunteers to engage with projects, policies, and areas of interest and provide valuable feedback that help with the strategic direction of the railway.