wominjeka | welcome!
Through the puff of steam, the ring of the bell and the rattle of the wheels on the narrow gauge, Puffing Billy Railway welcomes you on board a living time machine amongst the spectacular forests and fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges, along its traditional railway track for 24 kilometres from Belgrave to Gembrook.
JOURNEY OPTIONS
Which journey are you travelling on today? Take a look at your printed ticket to find out!
Belgrave to Lakeside
1 hour each way | Allow 4 hours
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, which combines its natural surroundings with the authentic sights, smells, and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway. Dine in at the modern café, or pre-order a Grazing Box to bring outside to the adjacent Emerald Lake Park Precinct.
Lakeside to Gembrook
45 mins each way | Allow 3 hours
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre and Emerald Lake Park before boarding the train to Gembrook township, home to a selection of eateries and a lovely playground.
Belgrave to Gembrook
1 hr 50 mins each way | Allow 6 hours
Travel the Puffing Billy Railway line in its entirety! At your destination, you will find Gembrook Township with a selection of eateries along with a lovely playground adjacent to the station.
Belgrave to Menzies Creek
25 mins each way | Allow 2 hours
Experience the time-honoured tradition of sitting on the carriage sill< – a true thrill for young and old! Explore Puffing Billy's rich history at the Menzies Creek Museum.
Belgrave to Lakeside
1 hour each way | Allow 4 hours
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, which combines its natural surroundings with the authentic sights, smells, and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway. Dine in at the modern café, or pre-order a Grazing Box to bring outside to the adjacent Emerald Lake Park Precinct.
Lakeside to Gembrook
45 mins each way | Allow 3 hours
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre and Emerald Lake Park before boarding the train to Gembrook township, home to a selection of eateries and a lovely playground.
Belgrave to Gembrook
1 hr 50 mins each way | Allow 6 hours
Travel the Puffing Billy Railway line in its entirety! At your destination, you will find Gembrook Township with a selection of eateries along with a lovely playground adjacent to the station.
Belgrave to Menzies Creek
25 mins each way | Allow 2 hours
Experience the time-honoured tradition of sitting on the carriage sill< – a true thrill for young and old! Explore Puffing Billy's rich history at the Menzies Creek Museum.
Sitting on our carriage sills
- Adult supervision is required for children 4-13 years of age when sitting on the carriage sill – this means a maximum of 2 supervised children per adult within arm’s reach. Children under 4 years of age are not permitted to sit on the carriage sills.
- When sitting on the carriage sill, make sure you remain seated - no standing or climbing on the carriage sill.
- No person will be allowed to sit on the carriage sill after sunset or during school excursions.
safety notice
To ensure you have an enjoyable experience, we ask that you adhere to the safety instructions below:
Do not stand, walk or sit on the railway track.
Do not leave the platform or step down on the track.
Do not touch or climb onto the locomotive, as parts of it are hot.
Stand behind the safety line marked on all platforms.
Do not open carriage doors on the non-platform side of the train.
Do not open carriage doors while the train is moving.
Smoking is not permitted on the train, platforms or under any roofed areas.
Alcohol is not permitted on trains (except as provided on dining cars).
No drones allowed.
Guide to your journey
Puffing Billy Railway was one of four low-cost 2’6” narrow gauge railway lines built in Victoria on 18 December 1900 to open up remote areas. Originally spanning 29 kilometres, the narrow-gauge track traced a scenic route from Upper Ferntree Gully to Gembrook, revealing a world of wonders along the way.
Let us take you on a journey along the railway line to explore the points of interest along the way!
Alternatively, skip ahead to unlock a treasure trove of stories, fascinating facts, and captivating tales from the past!
Belgrave to Menzies creek station
1. Belgrave station
The magic begins at Belgrave, offering you not just a train ride but a ticket to explore scenic landscapes, heritage stations, and the rich tapestry of Puffing Billy Railway’s century-old history. As you depart from Belgrave Station, catch a glimpse of the locomotive depot and workshop, where our skilled maintenance and restoration teams deliver ongoing care to each locomotive so that they can run at their best every day!
2. Sherbrooke Forest
Dive into the natural beauty of Sherbrooke Forest, an important habitat for lyrebirds, platypuses, sugar-gliders.
3. Trestle Bridge
Within minutes of the train’s departure, feel the thrill of crossing the iconic timber trestle bridge – a Victorian National Trust gem. Stretching 91.4 metres (300 feet) and soaring 12.8 metres (42 feet) high, this impressive timber structure provides the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Don’t forget to give a friendly wave to onlookers!
4. Selby station
This small wayside station saw quite a few passengers in the early days when serving the nearby village.
5. 1953 Landslide
In August 1953, Puffing Billy Railway encountered a landslide which, on top of mounting financial losses at the time, brought about the closure of the line. A remnant of the old track can be seen from the train, now a significant part of the railway’s history and a vital habitat for native birds like the Powerful Owl. Though they sleep during the day, you might spot one high in the trees!
6. Menzies Creek station
Named after an early miner who worked in the area, Menzies Creek is a bustling station stop where trains in opposite directions often ‘cross’ each other. Passengers with a Menzies Creek ticket can immerse themselves in history at the Menzies Creek Museum, located adjacent to the station and showcasing a fascinating collection of locomotives and railway artefacts.
1. Belgrave station
The magic begins at Belgrave, offering you not just a train ride but a ticket to explore scenic landscapes, heritage stations, and the rich tapestry of Puffing Billy Railway’s century-old history. As you depart from Belgrave Station, catch a glimpse of the locomotive depot and workshop, where our skilled maintenance and restoration teams deliver ongoing care to each locomotive so that they can run at their best every day!
2. Sherbrooke Forest
Dive into the natural beauty of Sherbrooke Forest, an important habitat for lyrebirds, platypuses, sugar-gliders.
3. Trestle Bridge
Within minutes of the train’s departure, feel the thrill of crossing the iconic timber trestle bridge – a Victorian National Trust gem. Stretching 91.4 metres (300 feet) and soaring 12.8 metres (42 feet) high, this impressive timber structure provides the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Don’t forget to give a friendly wave to onlookers!
4. Selby station
This small wayside station saw quite a few passengers in the early days when serving the nearby village.
5. Site of the 1953 Landslide
In August 1953, Puffing Billy Railway encountered a landslide which, on top of mounting financial losses at the time, brought about the closure of the line. A remnant of the old track can be seen from the train, now a significant part of the railway’s history and a vital habitat for native birds like the Powerful Owl. Though they sleep during the day, you might spot one high in the trees!
6. Menzies Creek station
Named after an early miner who worked in the area, Menzies Creek is a bustling station stop where trains in opposite directions often ‘cross’ each other. Passengers with a Menzies Creek ticket can immerse themselves in history at the Menzies Creek Museum, located adjacent to the station and showcasing a fascinating collection of locomotives and railway artefacts.
Menzies creek to Lakeside station
7. Views of Cardinia Reservoir
Experience breathtaking views on a clear day as Cardinia Reservoir unfolds, supplying drinking water to the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
8. Clematis station
Originally named ‘Paradise’, this is a typical country wayside station. Above and behind the station is Paradise Valley Hotel, a popular venue for dining and watching the trains pass by.
9. Emerald station
Between Clematis and Emerald is where you will find the steepest grade on the line as it ascends to Emerald. The highest station sits at an altitude of 318.5 metres (1045 feet)! This is also where you will find the Railway’s carriage repair workshop.
10. Nobelius Siding
Uncover the historic Nobelius Siding, once the largest fruit and plant nursery in the southern hemisphere during the early 20th century. Puffing Billy played a significant role in transporting these goods to Melbourne and all over the world.
11. Farmland views
Enjoy the farmland views between Emerald and Nobelius.
12. Superman Corner
Keep an eye out for Superman Corner between Nobelius Siding and Nobelius Station!
13. Spot our camouflaged friend!
Spot our camouflaged friend, the cleverly carved wooden snake hiding on the edge of the forest!
14. Lakeside station
The line to Lakeside, which reopened in 1975 following the landslide, connects passengers to the serene surroundings of Emerald Lake Park and serves as the starting point for Lakeside to Gembrook journeys.
15. Lakeside Visitor Centre
While trains are paused at Lakeside Station to fill their water tanks, guests can visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre and delve into the railway’s rich heritage. Inside, discover a treasure trove of memorabilia and history at the Lakeside Hall Museum, indulge in delicious food at the Railway Café, and find the perfect souvenir at the gift shop.
16. Emerald Lake Park
Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges is the picturesque Emerald Lake Park. Explore lush gardens, enjoy a scenic picnic, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and admire the native birdlife.
7. Views of Cardinia Reservoir
Experience breathtaking views on a clear day as Cardinia Reservoir unfolds, supplying drinking water to the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
8. Clematis station
Originally named ‘Paradise’, this is a typical country wayside station. Above and behind the station is Paradise Valley Hotel, a popular venue for dining and watching the trains pass by.
9. Emerald station
Between Clematis and Emerald is where you will find the steepest grade on the line as it ascends to Emerald. The highest station sits at an altitude of 318.5 metres (1045 feet)! This is also where you will find the Railway’s carriage repair workshop.
10. Nobelius Siding
Uncover the historic Nobelius Siding, once the largest fruit and plant nursery in the southern hemisphere during the early 20th century. Puffing Billy played a significant role in transporting these goods to Melbourne and all over the world.
11. Farmland views
Enjoy the farmland views between Emerald and Nobelius.
12. Superman Corner
Keep an eye out for Superman Corner between Nobelius Siding and Nobelius Station!
13. Spot our camouflaged friend!
Spot our camouflaged friend, the cleverly carved wooden snake hiding on the edge of the forest!
14. Lakeside station
The line to Lakeside, which reopened in 1975 following the landslide, connects passengers to the serene surroundings of Emerald Lake Park and serves as the starting point for Lakeside to Gembrook journeys.
15. Lakeside Visitor Centre
While trains are paused at Lakeside Station to fill their water tanks, guests can visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre and delve into the railway’s rich heritage. Inside, discover a treasure trove of memorabilia and history at the Lakeside Hall Museum, indulge in delicious food at the Railway Café, and find the perfect souvenir at the gift shop.
16. Emerald Lake Park
Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges is the picturesque Emerald Lake Park. Explore lush gardens, enjoy a scenic picnic, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and admire the native birdlife.
Discover Puffing Billy Fun!
Unlock a treasure trove of stories, fascinating facts, and captivating tales from the past!
Lakeside to Gembrook station
Before departure
14. Lakeside station
The line to Lakeside, which reopened in 1975 following the landslide, connects passengers to the serene surroundings of Emerald Lake Park and serves as the starting point for Lakeside to Gembrook journeys.
15. Lakeside Visitor Centre
While trains are paused at Lakeside Station to fill their water tanks, guests can visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre and delve into the railway’s rich heritage. Inside, discover a treasure trove of memorabilia and history at the Lakeside Hall Museum, indulge in delicious food at the Railway Café, and find the perfect souvenir at the gift shop.
16. Emerald Lake Park
Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges is the picturesque Emerald Lake Park. Explore lush gardens, enjoy a scenic picnic, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and admire the native birdlife.
Once you're onboard
17. Wright Forest
Embark on a journey from Lakeside Station and treat your senses to the untouched beauty of Wright State Forest.
18. Wright station
Named after a local landowner, Wright Station was once a small station that served the nearby Avonsleigh township.
19. / 20. / 21. Trestle Bridges
After leaving Wright Station, the railway line crosses over three historic timber trestle bridges, including the tallest on the railway line at 60 metres (200 feet) long and 15 metres (50 feet) high.
22. Cockatoo station
Originally named Cockatoo Creek, the station was later shortened to Cockatoo because of the many Sulphurcrested and Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos that lived in the area! This station was also an important loading point for timber from the various sawmills in the area.
23. Fielder station
Fielder is another typical wayside station that was intended for passengers only.
24. Rolling Farmlands
Marvel at breathtaking views of rolling farmlands, spot the winding Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail, and let the majestic mountains in the distance captivate your imagination!
25. Gembrook station
Located 24 kilometres from Belgrave at the end of the line is Gembrook Station, once a busy centre for the transportation of timber and farm produce from the district.
17. Wright Forest
Embark on a journey from Lakeside Station and treat your senses to the untouched beauty of Wright State Forest.
18. Wright station
Named after a local landowner, Wright Station was once a small station that served the nearby Avonsleigh township.
19. / 20. / 21. Trestle Bridges
After leaving Wright Station, the railway line crosses over three historic timber trestle bridges, including the tallest on the railway line at 60 metres (200 feet) long and 15 metres (50 feet) high.
22. Cockatoo station
Originally named Cockatoo Creek, the station was later shortened to Cockatoo because of the many Sulphurcrested and Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos that lived in the area! This station was also an important loading point for timber from the various sawmills in the area.
23. Fielder station
Fielder is another typical wayside station that was intended for passengers only.
24. Rolling Farmlands
Marvel at breathtaking views of rolling farmlands, spot the winding Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail, and let the majestic mountains in the distance captivate your imagination!
25. Gembrook station
Located 24 kilometres from Belgrave at the end of the line is Gembrook Station, once a busy centre for the transportation of timber and farm produce from the district.
EXPLORE GEMBROOK TOWNSHIP
Gembrook is a quaint town with ample opportunities for play, walks and exploring. View our map of Gembrook to find out where to eat, retail opportunities and local parks to relax in during your visit.
DISCOVER PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY FUN!
Ever wondered about the fascinating history of Puffing Billy Railway? Unlock a treasure trove of stories, fascinating facts, and captivating tales from the past. Join us on this adventure through time and learn what makes the railway so special.
Lakeside Visitor Centre Scavenger Hunt
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre with our very own scavenger hunt!
Locomotives & Rolling Stock
Learn more about our historic fleet of locomotives, carriages and goods wagons.
History & 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.
Environment
How we preserve and maintain the scenic surrounds of the Rail Corridor.
Volunteer opportunities
If you’re ready to build lifelong friendships, contribute to the community and be part of living history, we would love to hear from you!
Explore our region
Why not make a weekend of it? Explore the charming townships of our region and experience the full adventure!
ABOUT US
Built in 1900 to serve the local communities that lived in the hills, carrying anything from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and plants, Puffing Billy Railway is now a century old, not-for-profit steam railway that connects people with the past, the environment, and each other.
Continuing to puff daily (except Christmas Day) with the support of passionate volunteers, Puffing Billy Railway invites you to ride in our open-side carriages with your legs out as you journey over the hills, down the valleys, and into the lush forest on the original mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook.