Blog
- Details
- Written by: Julie Johnson
Suggested Itinerary:
The Ultimate 4-Day South Australian Outback Journey For many travelers, Australia is defined by its coastlines. But to find the true heart of the continent, you must head north from Adelaide into the ancient landscapes of the Flinders Ranges.
This 4-day itinerary takes you from the rolling hills of wine country to the rugged red peaks of the outback, centered around a legendary heritage rail experience.
Day 1: The Gateway to the North Adelaide to Quorn (approx. 3.5 hours)
Your journey begins in Adelaide. Leaving the city behind, head north into the Clare Valley. This is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, world-famous for its Riesling. Stop for a long lunch at a cellar door before continuing your drive as the landscape shifts from lush green vineyards to the vast, open plains of the north.
Arrive in the historic town of Quorn by late afternoon. Once a major crossroads for the Great Northern Railway, Quorn feels like a living film set.
Walk the heritage streets and enjoy a classic outback pub dinner as the desert stars begin to appear.
• Tip: Check out the Quorn Silo Light Show after dark for a visual history of the region.
Day 2: The Legend of the Pichi Richi
The Original Ghan Route Today is the highlight of your trip: stepping back in time with the Pichi Richi Railway.
This isn't just a train ride; it’s a journey on the only remaining section of the original narrow-gauge Ghan railway line. Board a beautifully restored 19th-century steam train and feel the power of iron and coal as you traverse the Pichi Richi Pass.
You’ll wind through deep rock cuttings and over historic stone bridges built in the 1870s. The open-air carriages offer the perfect vantage point for spotting red kangaroos and wedge-tailed eagles against the backdrop of the stunning ranges. •
The Experience: Whether you take the full-day Afghan Express or the shorter Pichi Richi Explorer, you are walking and riding in the footsteps of pioneers.
Day 3: Into the Ancient Heartland Quorn to Wilpena Pound (approx. 1.5 hours)
After a morning coffee in Quorn, drive further into the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. The landscape here is over 800 million years old. Spend your day exploring Wilpena Pound, a massive natural amphitheater of rock that dominates the horizon.
• For the Adventurous: Take a scenic flight to truly appreciate the scale of the "Nature" and wildlife from above.
• For the Culture Seeker: Join an Adnyamathanha guide for a "Welcome to Country" walk to learn about the deep spiritual connection the Traditional Owners have with this land.
Day 4: The Scenic Return Flinders Ranges to Adelaide
Enjoy one last outback sunrise before beginning your journey south. Instead of rushing back, take the scenic route through the Southern Flinders. Stop in the town of Melrose, nestled at the foot of Mount Remarkable, for a local bakery treat.
As you arrive back in Adelaide by evening, you’ll realize that in just four days, you’ve experienced the best of Australia: world-class wine, historic charm, and the timeless beauty of the outback.
Plan Your Heritage Journey The Pichi Richi Railway operates on select dates from March through November.
Because this is a volunteer-run heritage icon, seats are limited and highly sought after by international travelers.
Explore Train Dates & Book Your Tickets
- Details
- Written by: Julie Johnson
This National Volunteer Week - May 2025
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer at the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society From Board members and administration, workshop teams, track maintenance, train and building restoration, locomotive and carriage work, marketing, events, welcoming passengers, preparing and serving food, sharing stories and knowledge, gardening, cleaning, photography, and the many jobs behind the scenes — it truly takes a team. Every role matters.
Every hour given matters.
Every volunteer helps preserve history, maintain our railway, and create memorable experiences for future generations.
Your passion, enthusiasm and commitment are deeply appreciated, and we are incredibly fortunate to have each and every one of you as part of our railway family. This National Volunteer Week, we simply say — thank you.
We couldn’t do it without you.
Thinking about volunteering with us? Look for the volunteer form on our website.
Check out our VIDEO here
📸 Thanks Leanne McGill and other volunteers for these fabulous photos
#volunteerappreciation #NVW2026 #VolunteerWeek #KeepingHistoryAlive #trainlovers #VolunteersRequired #getinvolved #quorn #flindersranges #PichiRichiRailway #ThankYouVolunteers Volunteering Australia Volunteering SA&NT #media
- Details
- Written by: Julie Johnson
At first glance, there’s a HUGE size difference between our tiny “Coffee Pot” and mighty NT76…
but these two rare survivors share something very special. Both were saved from scrap many years ago and today stand proudly restored, maintained, and running thanks to the incredible dedication of our volunteers.
On the left is the famous “Coffee Pot” — Steam Motor Coach No. 1, built in 1905, and the ONLY surviving example of its kind in the world.
On the right is the powerful NT76 diesel locomotive from the 1950s — also the sole surviving NT class locomotive.
Two completely different eras of rail history… now travelling the rails together through the stunning Flinders Ranges.
This fantastic photo by Dave Bryker really caught our eye — well done Dave for taking the moment to capture these two survivors side by side! 📸
Did you know our train services are currently in full swing?
The landscape is green, vibrant, and absolutely spectacular right now.
Check out our upcoming travel dates on our Facebook Events page or website and book your trip with us today.
Every ticket helps preserve these historic trains, our railway line, and an important piece of history for generations to come.
#travel #history #visitsouthaustralia #flindersranges #quorn #portaugusta #steamtrains #heritage #internationalvisitor #capturingmoments #photography #ADL #adelaideairport #internationalvisitor #coffee
- Details
- Written by: Julie Johnson
On the Ground Big progress at C81/82 culvert...
Big progress at C81/82 culvert...
Ballast is now going in, with John Hall, Liam Bury and Richard Atkinson working on site This project has taken 10 days so far, with our incredible volunteers doing what they do best to keep this heritage railway experience alive.
Today’s works included:
• Installing stainless steel dowels into the crown units
• Backfilling and compacting
• Building dry stone retaining walls
• Watering from the bogie tanker Recent rains have helped bring the soil to near-perfect moisture for compaction A fantastic team effort.
Thank you to our volunteers – past & present Book your journey today with Pichi Richi Railway — every ticket helps restore and preserve this living history for generations to come.
Part 2 - Culvert C81/82 -
From 1878 to Today A piece of railway history rebuilt…
The original culvert (built in 1878) was:
• A 5-foot span arch
• Made from hand-mixed lime concrete using local materials
• Around one foot thick Inspections from 1982–2023 showed significant deterioration, with over 200mm of concrete loss.
After careful consideration of heritage and safety, it was replaced with precast concrete box culverts, fitted within the original abutments.
What it took:
• Track removed in 30ft panels
• 3m of backfill excavated
• Arch demolished, abutments retained • Precast units installed and sealed
• Backfilled, compacted, and widened embankment • Track reinstated with ballast, sleepers, fishplates & bolts Despite challenging access and tight work windows between trains, the team has made outstanding progress Thank you to our volunteers – past & present.
Book your journey today with Pichi Richi Railway — every ticket helps restore and preserve this living history for generations to come.
Photo Credit: Richard Atkinson
- Details
- Written by: Julie Johnson
Listen to our recent ABC Radio interview and plan your Easter steam train experience in the stunning Flinders Ranges. Behind every journey on Pichi Richi Railway are passionate volunteers and members who bring this experience to life — preserving history, sharing stories, and creating something truly special
🚂 Recently, we had the pleasure of joining ABC North & West SA, where Tom Mann spoke with Jeremy about “all things Pichi Richi Railway.” From the rich history of the line to the dedication of our volunteers and the unforgettable experiences we offer in the Flinders Ranges, it was a wonderful opportunity to share what makes this railway so unique.
👉 Listen to our recent ABC Radio interview HERE
Jeremy joins Tom Mann on ABC North & West SA to share “all things Pichi Richi Railway.”
You’ll find the interview at approximately 1:02:37 in the program.
A sincere thank you to ABC North & West SA and Tom Mann for the opportunity to share our story — we truly appreciate your support in showcasing regional South Australia.
🌿 A Beautiful Time to Visit the Flinders Ranges Following early rains, the countryside around Quorn is looking absolutely stunning — fresh, green, and full of life. It’s one of those special times where the landscape truly comes alive and offers a memorable backdrop to your journey.
🚂 Easter Steam is Back — First Runs for 2026 We are incredibly excited to be running steam trains this Easter weekend — our first for 2026. There’s nothing quite like: The sound of the steam whistle The rhythm of the train along the track The open landscapes of the Flinders Ranges unfolding before you It’s an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
🧡 Plan Your Visit — Easter & School Holidays If you’ve been thinking about visiting, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or simply looking for a unique South Australian experience, we would love to welcome you onboard.
👉 Book your journey for Easter and the upcoming school holidays
👉 Experience the magic of heritage rail in the Flinders Ranges
👉 Be part of the story that our volunteers bring to life every day
We look forward to welcoming you to Quorn and sharing this very special experience with you.