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.

Woman in a black singlet holding a glass filled with a clear liquid and ice cubes.

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 DJ – groove to the sounds of a DJ as you sip a glass of gin and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Four Pillars Gin Guest Speaker – 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.
  • 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.
  • EVENT DATE

    Saturday 5th April 2025

  • LOCATION

    Lakeside Visitor Centre, Emerald

    Get Directions
  • TICKET PRICES

    Train Ride + General Admission | SOLD OUT

    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

NOTE: THIS OPTION IS SOLD OUT.

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.

The Lakeside Hall Museum, located within the Puffing Billy Lakeside Visitor Centre. Puffing Billy's original locomotive 3A can be seen sitting on a plinth, as can a variety of other historic assets and interpretive displays.

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
A cafe inside a building. The interior is made up of wood and black along with concrete. A large number of visitors are seen sitting at tables in the cafe.

Buy tickets

Train Ride + General Admission ticket

SOLD OUT

Accessibility

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Questions specific to General Admission ticket holders

Questions specific to Train Ride + General Admission ticket holders