Visiting Puffing Billy is like a rite of passage for everyone living in Melbourne. Why, only a few months ago, they brought back the nostalgic and time-honoured tradition of letting your legs swing free on the carriage sills. And this winter, they’ve come up with something truly spectacular, to keep you dazzled during the school holidays. Hop aboard the Train of Lights, an Australian-first event by Puffing Billy that allows you to see the Dandenong Ranges at night, while enjoying a spectacular light show. Bookings are available now.
The Train of Lights at Puffing Billy Railway
Rug up this winter for an unforgettable moving light show. Your journey begins at Lakeside Station, where you’ll glimpse the illuminated steam train at the Lakeside Visitor Centre. Catch a light show at Lakeside Hall, and enjoy a yummy meal at the café, before settling into the train.
Then, experience the magic as the train journeys through the lush surroundings of the Dandenong Ranges. Look outside the carriage, and glimpse native wild animal projections dancing over the trees and open farmlands. Feel stunned by bright colours and hypnotic patterns, as the steam train makes its way through Emerald Lake Park, Cockatoo and Gembrook.
The train will take about 45 minutes to get to Gembrook, where you’ll disembark and enjoy lovely hot drinks and winter warmer food. Stay in the area for about an hour, where you’ll have plenty of time to take pictures. Overall, the whole experience will take two and a half hours.
Puffing Billy Railway partnered with lighting production company Resolution X to make this after-dark experience possible. During the journey, passengers will not be allowed to sit on the carriage sills for their own safety. This train will go full steam ahead, no matter the weather, so be sure to wear warm clothes!