In March 2025, Puffing Billy Railway had the pleasure of hosting Alex Stratikis, an autistic travel writer, blogger and photographer who is also the founder of Autism Adventures Abroad. Alex travelled onboard Puffing Billy Railway from Belgrave to Lakeside return and has written a blog about his visit from the perspective of an autistic adult. Here are his words: 

Introduction

Puffing Billy Railway, located in Victoria’s picturesque Dandenong Ranges, is one of Australia’s most iconic heritage railways, offering visitors the chance to step back in time aboard a vintage steam train. As a destination, it’s renowned not only for its breathtaking views and historic charm but also for the efforts it has made to ensure accessibility for all visitors, including those with autism and other disabilities.

I was given the opportunity to visit the celebrated railway when I was invited to experience it through the lens of an autistic adult and assess the accessibility features in place. As part of my ongoing work, exploring how various destinations accommodate neurodivergent visitors, I was eager to see what Puffing Billy offered in terms of inclusivity and how they catered for individuals like me during the experience.

Puffing Billy travelling through the dense forest, with ferns and eucalyptus trees seen on each side of the railway track. Many passengers are seen sitting with their legs over the ledge of the open side carriages. The green locomotive has white steam coming out of its funnel.

Basics

Puffing Billy Railway operates on a historic track that stretches from Belgrave to Gembrook, winding through dense forests, scenic valleys, and lush hillsides. The railway is a key part of Victoria’s tourism offer and a beloved feature of the Dandenong Ranges. It’s accessible to a variety of visitors, including those who may require additional support to enjoy the experience.

For autistic tourists, the train ride provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of the region in a controlled and welcoming environment, with features designed to assist with sensory sensitivities. From tactile indicators to sensory maps, Puffing Billy strives to make the journey more comfortable for all passengers.

Facts & History

The Puffing Billy Railway, which dates to 1900, originally served as a narrow-gauge railway transporting passengers and goods between Belgrave and Gembrook. Today, it is one of the best-preserved heritage steam railways in Australia and closely replicates the experience that those working on the line over 100 years ago would have borne witness to.

The experience is deeply rooted in Australia’s history, as it connects travelers to a time before modern, high-speed transportation dominated. Over the years, it has become a beloved tourist attraction, drawing people from all walks of life to enjoy its timeless appeal.

How to Get There

Puffing Billy Railway is easily accessible from Melbourne, approximately 40 minutes away by car. The nearest station is Belgrave, which is well-connected to the CBD by public transport. Visitors can take the train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station or Southern Cross Station to Belgrave Station on the Belgrave Line, a scenic journey in itself.

For those with physical accessibility needs, it is recommended to contact the booking office in advance, as Puffing Billy offers accessible carriages and assistance for passengers with mobility challenges. Additionally, the stations have accessible parking spaces, ensuring convenience for those driving.

The Experience

Before you even begin to plan your journey, it's worth exploring the accessibility page of the official website. For those that find change difficult or are apprehensive about visiting new places, then be sure to check out the Social Stories. While intended for autistic children, they are comprehensive yet easy to understand and will benefit many, no matter the age.

Of additional benefit is the 'Sensory' section of the website, which includes an audio clip of the steam whistle and a Sensory Map that highlights facilities, landmarks, and high/low sensory areas. These tools are designed to ease any potential stress or overwhelm, ensuring that the experience is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible, while also helping set expectations about the journey and the environment.

Sensory Map of the Puffing Billy Lakeside Visitor Centre precinct. High sensory areas are found in most parts of the building, as well as on the train platform. Lower sensory spaces can be found in the parkland adjacent to the building and area near the function room and amenities.

The trip from Melbourne to the station was a painless experience. There is a free station car park just a short distance down from the entrance to Puffing Billy that is the designated parking area for the train. There are several levels with ample parking, and it still had plenty of spaces available when we arrived.

Walking from the car park was extremely straightforward, thanks to the clear signposting every couple hundred meters or so. If you're like me and get easily flustered by unclear directions, then you will know how much of a godsend clear instructions are.

Arriving at the ticket desk, we handed over our digital confirmations and received our physical tickets in return from the courteous clerk (most staff working at the stations are elderly volunteers who have a passion to keep the railway to standard). It's worth noting that tickets must be purchased online in advance, and they usually sell out weeks in advance—as the unfortunate family in front of us learned. The autistic community is known for its preparedness for upcoming activities, so make sure not to leave this too late for your desired day of travel to avoid disappointment.

The ticket will allocate you to a carriage (which are all lettered), and since COVID times, these carriages have a maximum set number of passengers allowed in each. I found this a great initiative for those who get easily overwhelmed by crowds and cramped spaces—like myself.

From the platform, you will be guided by the volunteers. They can also answer any questions you have if you become disoriented by the crowds (it can get quite busy while boarding is happening). I personally recommend arriving as soon as boarding commences (1 hour before the departure); then you can have a quieter start to the journey.

A Puffing Billy Railway volunteer conductor is seen at the train platform, tipping his hat to the camera and smiling to welcome you. He is wearing the traditional Puffing Billy uniform with light blue shirt, navy blue jacket and tie plus a black hat with the word Head Conductor around the brim.

Taking a ride on Puffing Billy Railway is a magical experience, particularly for those who love history, nature, or just the nostalgia of steam-powered travel. The train journey offers magnificent views of the Dandenong Ranges, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the serene landscapes, distant lakes, and dense forests.

The train journey time is approximately 1 hour each way (Belgrave to Lakeside and vice versa), though it feels much quicker as most of the journey will be spent snapping amazing pics or taking in the breathtaking views. Keep in mind to sit on either the left or right side if traveling both ways or try and get a right-hand side seat if traveling from Belgrave (left-hand side if coming from the Lakeside direction); otherwise, you will miss the incredible bridge views.

Puffing BIlly Railway steam train travelling over the iconic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge in Selby. Many passengers onboard can be seen sitting with their legs dangling over the ledge of the open side carriages. The forest the train is travelling through is full of green ferns and eucalyptus trees.

Part of this unique experience is being able to stick your hands and legs out of the carriage between the metal bars. You don't have to worry about falling out or hitting anything along the way, as either side of the tracks is also owned and maintained by Puffing Billy. I think it is important to mention here, though, that if you are seated towards the front of the train near the locomotive, then you are more likely to get hit by small particles of soot from the coal. As such, I recommend avoiding wearing white for this reason, as it may stain, and I recommend that you contact staff online prior to your visit if you feel that this will cause you any sensory discomfort.

Young man sitting with legs over the side of the open side carriages.
Credit: Autism Adventures Abroad

Arriving at Lakeside Station, you are immediately greeted by the brand-spanking-new Lakeside Visitor Centre. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Emerald Lake Park, it is a dynamic destination providing multiple event spaces, alongside an array of local food, wine, and unique group experiences. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a private dinner, or marking some other milestone, the Centre provides the perfect setting for memorable events. Inside the Lakeside Hall, visitors can explore the intertwined history of Puffing Billy Railway and the Dandenong Ranges through captivating steam artifacts, including a replica of the iconic locomotive 3A, a pioneer of early 20th-century steam travel. The building is overall roomy, with dim lighting, which makes it somewhat a mild sensory experience (though the background music may present a challenge for some).

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.

Visitors can also enjoy some scrumptious delights at the Railway Café, offering relaxed indoor and outdoor seating with views of Lake Treganowan and the surrounding nature. Enjoy a variety of tasty meals, local drinks, and takeaway options in a spacious and slick setting, perfect for a casual bite or a laid-back meal with family and friends.

The area around the Centre also offers a variety of activities for all ages, from relaxing picnics by the tranquil Lake Treganowan to exploring the expansive Emerald Lake Park with its scenic walking trails. For those looking to be more adventurous, bike rentals are available. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or simply a peaceful day outdoors, the Lakeside Visitor Centre has something for everyone.

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.

If traveling back to Belgrave by Puffing Billy, then remember to keep track of your time at Lakeside, and when getting on the carriage, ensure you sit on the same side as coming over so that you can enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery from the opposite side coming back.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

Puffing Billy Railway is very much a family-friendly experience, but visitors should be prepared for the possible sensory overload that can occur during busy times, especially on weekends or during school holidays. It’s a good idea to check ahead to see if there are less crowded days or times to visit if you’re concerned about sensory sensitivities.

If traveling with an autistic family member, communication with the Puffing Billy team ahead of time is key.

Be sure to check the forecast before your visit, as the Dandenong Ranges can experience rain and unpredictable weather. It’s advisable to dress appropriately, especially for colder months when temperatures can drop significantly in the hills. There is also a fire safety plan in place, which means all departing trains will be cancelled in the instance of extreme heat during the summer months.

Accessibility features include ramped carriages for easy boarding, tactile ground surface indicators at stations, and accessible toilets. For visitors traveling with assistance dogs, Puffing Billy is welcoming, allowing customers to travel with their service animals.

Also, it's important to know that companion card holders will get complimentary travel, while those with a health care card will receive concessionary rate tickets.

About the author

Alex Stratikis is an autistic travel writer, blogger and photographer. His work focuses on the travel experience for autistic individuals, with the aim of identifying the barriers that exist for neurodivergent travellers.

He established Autism Adventures Abroad with the aim of using his personal travel history to encourage more autistic people to travel with confidence, whilst also working with the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors to explore how their services could accommodate the needs of autistic people – to provide truly accessible and inclusive experiences.

 

Find out more about Autism Adventures Abroad on Instagram @autismadventuresabroad or read Alex's other blogs on his website autismadventuresabroad.com.

Image credit: Autism Adventures Abroad

Young autistic man onboard one of Puffing Billy's open side carriages.