Blog
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
BEHIND THE SCENES | Workshop Update
Another productive Pichi Richi Railway Workshop Working Bee on 8 August, with our volunteers continuing important work on W934 and 873.
🚂 W934: Work included
- fitting L/R pistons to piston rods,
- machining and thread cutting piston rod nuts,
- drilling retaining pin holes and fitting pins,
- refitting the rear L/H cylinder cover,
- remachining a damaged regulator
- rod thread and
- refitting the L/H gauge glass assembly.
🔧 873: Work continued on conversion back to chopper couplers, battery box rust repairs, cleaning the engine compartment and locomotive cab, machining four lugs for safety chains at Ironbank Works, and modifying the exhaust stack to its original height to allow fitting through the shed doors. That’s an enormous amount of skilled work achieved by a small team of volunteers!
👏 A huge thank you to Jarrod, who organises our Workshop Working Bees and provided this update, and to Ethan, Chris, Glenn, Gus and Mark for giving their time and skills.
Two more Working Bee weekends are planned this month — we’ll keep you updated on the progress!
#PichiRichiRailway #BehindTheScenes #RailwayVolunteers #RailwayRestoration #QuornSA #FlindersRanges #volunteers #trainlovers #heritage #history
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
BEHIND THE SCENES | Workshop Working Bee Update
There’s been an enormous amount of work happening behind the scenes at Pichi Richi Railway, with our latest Workshop Working Bee on 8 August 2026 continuing work on W934 and 873.
A huge thank you to Jarrod, who organises our Workshop Working Bees and provided this latest update, and to Ethan, Chris, Glenn, Gus and Mark for their assistance.
With a relatively small team of volunteers taking on a substantial workload, a great deal was achieved.
🚂 W934
• Fitting of L/R pistons to piston rods
• Finish machine and thread cut piston rod nuts
• Drill retaining pin holes in piston nuts and fit pins
• Refit rear L/H cylinder cover
• Remove and remachine damaged thread on regulator rod
• Refit L/H gauge glass assembly
🔧 873
• Continue with conversion back to chopper couplers
• Clean out battery boxes and repair rust
• Clean out loose debris in the engine compartment
• Deep clean locomotive cab
• Profile cut and machine four lugs to attach safety chains, with machining undertaken at Ironbank Works
• Modify exhaust stack to original height to allow fitting through shed doors It’s quite a list — and a great example of just how much skilled, hands-on work our volunteers undertake behind the scenes to maintain, restore and care for our historic railway fleet.
👏 Thank you to Jarrod and all the volunteers involved for generously contributing their time, skills and knowledge. And the work isn’t finished yet!
We still have two more Workshop Working Bees planned over two weekends this month, as work on these projects continues.
We’ll keep taking you behind the scenes and sharing the progress. 🚂🔧
#heritage #PichiRichiRailway #behindthesceness #workshop #RailwayRestoration #quornsa #flindersranges #southaustralia #tourism #preservationmatters #southaustralia #trainlovers #volunteersmakeadifference #volunteersneeded #mechanical #history #historymatters
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Introducing a brand new premium heritage experience, the Commissioner’s Explorer
Travel like a Railway Commissioner.
For an afternoon 50 guests will have the rare opportunity to step aboard one of the beautifully restored Commissioner's carriages "Flinders, Sturt or Light” and enjoy an unforgettable journey through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass.
These carriage were specially designed so senior railway officials could inspect the railway in comfort while travelling through regional South Australia.
On Friday 25 September 2026, you'll experience this remarkable piece of living history behind heritage locomotive YX141, travelling from Quorn to the beautiful Tickle Belly Hill.
Along the way, our passionate volunteers will share fascinating stories and unique commentary about the Commissioner's Train, the railway and the rich history of the Pichi Richi Pass, making this much more than a train journey—it's a step back in time.
After arriving at Tickle Belly Hill, relax and enjoy a delicious Australian themed afternoon tea, and the warm country hospitality the venue is renowned for before returning to Quorn.
Whether you're fascinated by railway history, love heritage travel or simply enjoy unique South Australian experiences, this promises to be an afternoon to remember.
Bookings open soon online... either by booking via facebook or bookings on this website page.
If you are interested in travelling on this experience please ring Flinders Ranges Tourist Information Centre on (08)86200510 to put your name and number or persons traveling to secure your seat.
- DATE: Friday 25 September 2026
- * DEPART QUORN: 1:00pm
- * RETURN: Approximately 4:30pm
- * $215 per person
- #TrainExperience #travel #AfternoonTea #experience #southaustralia #steamtrain
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Have you ever seen horses travelling on a heritage train? 🚂
Take a look through some wonderful photos on our socials (facebook and instagram) and you'll discover one of Quorn's most unique traditions – horses travelling aboard their own specially designed carriage on the historic Pichi Richi Railway before riders set off on an unforgettable trail ride through our spectacular countryside. The smiles say it all. For local horse enthusiast Jenni, it all began with one simple question...
"Would anyone like to ride with their horses on a train and trail ride back to Quorn?"
While horse train rides had been enjoyed by riding groups many years ago, they hadn't taken place since 2008.
Having experienced them herself and remembering just how special they were, Jenni felt it was time to bring the tradition back.
In 2022, she spoke with friends at Pichi Richi Railway, gathered together a small group of experienced riders, and with the generous support of local property owners, organised the first ride back through the breathtaking country surrounding Quorn.
The response was overwhelming. Around 12–15 riders shared a day filled with friendship, stunning scenery and the unforgettable experience of seeing their horses comfortably travelling aboard the heritage train. Looking through these photos, you can see the excitement on everyone's faces and why this experience has become so memorable.
The success of that first ride inspired another in 2024, with even more like-minded riders enjoying a different trail back to Quorn, creating new friendships and lifelong memories along the way. Now, in 2026, the tradition continues.
For Jenni, it's about far more than the ride itself. Riders spend time in Quorn enjoying our cafés, pubs and local businesses before the grand finale of loading their horses onto the train. It's a sight that fascinates visitors, with many stopping to watch and photograph this remarkable experience.
"I don't think there's anywhere else quite like Quorn where we're fortunate enough to enjoy an experience like this," says Jenni.
A heartfelt thank you to Jenni for her passion, vision and dedication in bringing this wonderful tradition back to life, and to the local landholders and everyone involved in making it such a memorable experience.
👀 Keep an eye on our website and social pages. Another horse train adventure is planned for later this year, and we'll be sharing another story about this unique experience in the coming months. You won't want to miss it! "
#PichiRichiRailway #Quorn #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #HeritageRailway #HorseTrailRide #RegionalSouthAustralia #VolunteerDriven #UniqueExperiences #visitsouthaustralia #media #abc #brentonragless #fun #social #quorn #media #horsetrails #cosi #southaussiewithcosie
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Sometimes the most treasured pieces of railway history arrive in unexpected ways.
During the recent Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale, we had a wonderful conversation with a visitor to our stand about South Australia's railway history. He later contacted us and kindly shared a memoir written by his late mother, Mrs C. M. Archer, recalling her childhood in Terowie during 1925.
Mrs Archer was just ten years old when her father, a Supervising Engineer with Thompson & Co. of Castlemaine, was sent to Terowie to oversee the assembly of the new NM class locomotives for the Commonwealth Railways. Through her eyes, we experience life in Terowie nearly 100 years ago—from staying at the Royal Hotel and attending the local school to witnessing one of Australia's most important railway towns during the break-of-gauge era.
We sincerely thank Mrs Archer's family for allowing us to share these remarkable memories with the wider community. We hope you enjoy reading them.
A personal memoir by Mrs C. M. Archer
"My Time in Terowie, Early in 1925 my Fathers employer Thompson and Co. of Castlemaine Victoria , our home town, sent him, as Supervising Engineer, to Terowie in S.A. where a big gantry (right) had been built to assemble 22 NM class locomotives for Commonwealth Railways. Terowie was the break of gauge for the Transcontinental line where passengers travelling between Perth and Sydney changed trains to complete the journey.
My mother and I went over in August and stayed for 5 months at the Royal Hotel. It was unusual for a 10-year-old girl to become boarder, and the proprietor Mrs Hayes and her 2 spinster daughters made great fuss of me. I attended the Terowie Public School (below right) and enjoyed yet another teaching experience. My father and Mr. C. Wright became friends, and Mum used to walk up to the school on most afternoons and enjoyed a cup of tea and a chat with Mrs Wright.
There were 3 children in the family, and Beryl 9, and I became good friends, and explored the flat dry country where we collected some interesting stones – garnets, low grade rubies, crystals and other samples. Dad had a tray made for me, which I kept under the bed with simple labels attached. In fact, the Commissioner of Railways, on one of his progress visits saw my collection, and on his next visit, whether from Perth or Adelaide, I’m not sure, brought a more sophisticated lot of stones and minerals to add to my display.
Terowie was hot, dry, dusty in December, so Mum and I returned to Castlemaine whilst Dad remained in S.A. for another 4 months.
Notes on the Commonwealth Railways NM Class Locomotives.
The NM class was a class of 22 narrow-gauge 4-8-0 steam locomotives built by Thompson & Co., Castlemaine, Victoria between 1925 and 1927 for the Commonwealth Railways.
They were designed along the lines of the Queensland Railways C17 class, but with larger tenders and vacuum brakes.
Purpose and Service The NM class was introduced to serve the Central Australia Railway (1,067 mm gauge) between Port Augusta, South Australia, and Alice Springs, a remote, arid route with challenging gradients, ie the Pichi Richi Pass.
They hauled both freight and passenger services, including the famous Ghan through the Pichi Richi Pass.
The locomotives were well-suited to the line’s demands, with a tractive effort of about 19,200 lbf (85 kN).
During the 1949 Australian coal strike, 18 were temporarily converted to burn oil.
Technical Specifications.
Wheel arrangement: 4-8-0 Gauge: 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)
Weight:~82 t
Boiler pressure: 160 psi (11 bar)
Cylinders: 17 in × 22 in (430 × 560 mm) Grate area: 18.5 ft² (1.7 m²)
Coal capacity:~6.5 t
Water capacity: ~13,600 L Operational History
First delivery: June 1925 Operators: Commonwealth Railways (NM15–NM28, NM31 NM38)
Withdrawal: 1954–1956, replaced by NSU-class diesel-electrics.
Notable use: NM34 was the last serviceable NM, making a ceremonial run in 1967. Preservation Two NM class locomotives survive:
NM25– Restored to operational condition by the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society, now hauling heritage “Old Ghan” trains. NM34– Preserved in static display at the National Railway Museum, Port Adelaide. Legacy The NM class remains a symbol of Australian narrow-gauge heritage, representing a period when steam power was vital for remote, arid rail lines. Their design was a pragmatic choice, adapting a proven state railway model to the unique demands of the Central Australia Railway Reproduced from my Mother’s notes by her son Warwick Archer, Brighton SA " .
We extend our sincere thanks to Mrs C. M. Archer's family for preserving and sharing these memories. If you have family stories, photographs or railway memories relating to Pichi Richi Railway, Terowie, Quorn or the former Commonwealth Railways, we'd love to hear from you. Please get in touch—we're always keen to help preserve South Australia's rich railway heritage for future generations.
#trains #history #terowie #railway #visitsouthaustralia #explore #memories #family #living #facts
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🚂 Thank You, South Australia's Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale!
What an incredible four days it was! A huge thank you to everyone who visited the Pichi Richi Railway stand at the 2026 South Australia's Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale.
It was a pleasure meeting so many passionate travellers, railway enthusiasts, families and future adventurers, and sharing the story of one of South Australia's most iconic heritage railways.
A very special thank you to Cosi from South Aussie with Cosi (Channel 7) for stopping by to say hello and sharing one of his favourite South Australian experiences.
🎥 Be sure to watch this video and listen to what Cosi has to say about Pichi Richi Railway! His kind words mean so much to our volunteer team and remind us why we're so passionate about preserving and sharing this unique piece of South Australia's railway heritage.
We'd also like to thank the many families and children who visited us as part of the Little Wanderers Trail. It was wonderful seeing so many smiling faces exploring the show, discovering new adventures and learning more about the many experiences South Australia has to offer.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated Pichi Richi Railway volunteers, whose enthusiasm, knowledge and warm hospitality helped make the event such a success. Whether chatting with visitors, sharing stories on the Main Stage or welcoming guests to our stand, you represented our railway with pride. We are incredibly grateful for your time, passion and commitment. Finally, we'd like to extend our sincere appreciation to the wonderful team at Caravan and Camping SA, organisers of this fantastic event.
Thank you for creating such a welcoming, professional and well-run show, and for providing tourism operators like us with the opportunity to connect with thousands of visitors. Your friendly and supportive team made us feel welcome from bump-in to pull-down, and we are grateful to have been part of such a successful event.
With more than 20,000 people coming through the gates over the four days, the show was a wonderful celebration of outdoor adventure and South Australian tourism.
It was fantastic to see visitors exploring the latest caravans, camper trailers, tents, camping equipment and outdoor products while planning future road trips and discovering the incredible destinations, attractions and experiences our beautiful state has to offer.
We were also proud to promote not only Pichi Richi Railway, but our valued corporate sponsors, local businesses and the wider Flinders Ranges community. Working together to showcase regional South Australia is something we're passionate about, and events like this provide a wonderful opportunity to encourage more people to visit, stay longer and support our local communities.
If we met you at the show, thank you for taking the time to stop and chat.
We hope to welcome you aboard soon for an unforgettable heritage rail journey through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass between Quorn and Port Augusta, in the heart of the Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
🎟️ Book your journey and experience the magic for yourself: https://www.pichirichirailway.org.au
Thank you once again to everyone who helped make this event such a memorable success.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing the magic of Pichi Richi Railway with you soon!
#PichiRichiRailway #VolunteerPowered #SouthAussieWithCosi #CaravanCampingSA #LittleWanderers #SteamTrain #HeritageRailway #Quorn #PortAugusta @caravanandcampingsa #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #VisitSouthAustralia #SupportLocal #RegionalSouthAustralia #ExploreSouthAustralia #FamilyAdventure #RailwayHeritage #Channel7 #TrainTravel #AustralianHeritage #RoadTrips #OutdoorAdventure
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
🌟 Come and see us at the South Australia's Caravan & Camping Outdoor Sale - 23/7/2026 - 26/7/2026
If you're looking for inspiration for your next adventure, make your way to the South Australia's Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale Show at the Adelaide Showground at Wayville There really is something for everyone!
From caravans, motorhomes and camping equipment to holiday destinations, regional experiences, walking trails, 4WD adventures, boating, fishing and so much more, you'll find hundreds of ideas all under one roof.
Please show your support for the many businesses, tourism operators, clubs and volunteers who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to create an outstanding event for visitors.
While you're there, we'd love you to drop in and say hello to the team at Pichi Richi Railway at Stand D26 in the Duncan Pavilion.
We'll be sharing the story of our iconic heritage railway, the beautiful Flinders Ranges, and why this remarkable part of South Australia deserves a place on your travel bucket list.
We're also right next to the Walking SA stand, where you can discover some of the wonderful walking trails throughout the Flinders Ranges and across South Australia.
🎤 Live presentations daily: 10:30am – 10:50am
Something for the children - We are proud to be part of the Little Wanderers Trail
Whether you're planning your next holiday, looking for a weekend escape, or simply want to enjoy a fantastic day out, we encourage you to visit, explore and support the exhibitors who make events like this possible.
See you at the Adelaide Showground!
Buy your tickets to the show HERE before you go
#southaustralia #roadtrip #caravanandcampingsa @caravanandcampingsa #CaravanCampingSale #southaustralia #flindersranges #flindersrangesandoutback #visitquorn #roadtrips #littlewanderer #trainlovers #heritagetrains #familyfun #travel #getaway #visitsouthaustralia #tourism #getaway
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Introducing Tracks Through History
The Official Pichi Richi Railway Podcast We're excited to announce the launch of Tracks Through History, a brand-new podcast from Pichi Richi Railway.
For more than 50 years, our dedicated volunteers have worked to preserve and share South Australia's railway heritage. Now, we're bringing those stories to you in a whole new way. Each episode will take you behind the scenes to discover the people, projects, history and passion that keep one of Australia's most iconic heritage railways alive for future generations.
🚂 Episode One – The Restoration of the Goods Shed Our inaugural episode explores the remarkable restoration of the historic Goods Shed. Hear Adam and Brian share the stories behind this significant project, the challenges overcome, the dedication of our volunteers and why preserving this important piece of railway history matters. Whether you're a railway enthusiast, history lover, volunteer, member or simply curious to learn more about Pichi Richi Railway, we invite you to sit back, tune in and enjoy the journey.
🎧 Listen now via the Pichi Richi Railway website, where you can choose your favourite platform.
Available now on: ✅ Spotify ✅ YouTube Podcasts 🍎 Apple Podcasts is coming soon!
If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love your support.
Please: 👍 Follow the podcast
❤️ Share it with your family and friends
💬 Let us know what you think in the comments Every listen, follow and share helps us preserve and share the remarkable stories of Pichi Richi Railway with audiences across Australia and around the world.
This is just the beginning… we can't wait to share many more stories with you through Tracks Through History.
🎙️ Listen now: HERE
#podcast
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School Holidays are Here in South Australia
Looking for a unique family adventure these school holidays?
Step aboard the Pichi Richi Explorer and enjoy a half-day heritage steam train journey between Quorn and Woolshed Flat.
The countryside is looking spectacular after the recent rains, with the Flinders Ranges greener than ever.
☀️ Steam trains
🌿 Stunning scenery
👨👩👧👦 Fun for the whole family
☕ Food and drinks available at Woolshed Flat
📅 Check out our upcoming departure dates and book your adventure today HERE
#PichiRichiRailway #SchoolHolidays #SouthAustralia #FlindersRanges #FamilyAdventure #HeritageRailway #SteamTrain #VisitSouthAustralia
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Why visit Pichi Richi Railway at the upcoming Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale?
If you're heading to the Caravan and Camping SA Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale, be sure to stop by and say hello to the friendly volunteers from Pichi Richi Railway at Booth D26 in the Duncan Gallery.
Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a Flinders Ranges holiday or your next big road trip, we'd love to help you discover one of South Australia's most memorable heritage rail experiences. Why visit the Pichi Richi Railway stand?
🚂 Discover why Quorn and the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass should be on your travel itinerary.
🌿 Learn about our heritage rail journeys through some of South Australia's most beautiful countryside.
📚 Browse our exclusive merchandise and railway history books.
🏆 Find out about our nationally award-winning restoration of Carriage 470.
☕ See the unique Coffee Pot (model train) – Did you know the Coffee Pot Train we run in Quorn is the only one of its kind in the world.
🙋 Meet our friendly volunteers, who love sharing local knowledge, railway history and travel tips for Quorn and the Flinders Ranges.
Whether you're looking for inspiration, planning your next getaway or simply love heritage railways, we'd love to help you include Pichi Richi Railway in your next adventure.
While you're there, be sure to explore everything the South Australia's Caravan, Camping & Outdoor Sale has to offer. From the latest caravans, motorhomes and camping equipment to travel destinations, accessories and outdoor inspiration, there's something for everyone.
📍 Booth D26 – Duncan Gallery
📅 23–26 July 2026
📍 Adelaide Showground
Come and say hello—we can't wait to meet you.
Purchase your tickets online to the Caravan Camping & Outdoor Sale before you go - LINK HERE
#PichiRichiRailway #CaravanCampingOutdoorSale #CaravanCampingSA #ExploreSA #VisitFlindersRanges #Quorn #SteamTrain #HeritageRailway #RoadTripSA #SouthAustralia #CaravanLife #CampingSA #caravancampingsale #caravanandcampingsa #quorn
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Behind Every Journey is an Incredible Volunteer Crew 🚂💙
The last weekend in June the Afghan Express was in the safe hands of a wonderful volunteer crew, with Driver Andrew, Fireman Darren, Guard Ethan and Arnold trainee fireman - welcoming passengers aboard for another memorable journey between Port Augusta and Quorn.
For our volunteers, it's about so much more than operating a heritage railway.
They genuinely enjoy the camaraderie of working together, meeting visitors from near and far, sharing the fascinating history of the old Ghan line, and seeing the smiles on passengers' faces as they experience one of South Australia's most iconic rail journeys. And what a time to visit!
The Flinders Ranges are looking spectacular, with lush green landscapes creating a stunning backdrop to every journey.
It's a beautiful reminder of just how special this part of the world can be.
If you missed the Afghan Express this time, don't worry—it will be back running again in August. In the meantime, we've got plenty happening these school holidays!
Our popular Explorer Train will be running from Quorn to Woolshed Flat and return, offering a relaxed half-day heritage rail experience that's perfect for families, friends and visitors of all ages.
🎟️ We encourage you to book ahead and secure your seats early.
While you're here, don't just ride the train—make a getaway of it!
Stay a little longer and explore the historic township of Quorn, discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Flinders Ranges, support local businesses, and experience everything this remarkable region has to offer. After all, the Flinders Ranges was named the second-best region in the world to visit by Lonely Planet—and once you've experienced it for yourself, you'll understand exactly why.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon!
📍 Book your journey today and start planning your Flinders Ranges adventure.
Photo Credit: H Magarey & L McGill
#trainlovers #visitsouthaustralia #quorn #portaugusta #visitflindersranges #internationaltraveler #interstatetraveler #landscape #volunteers #friendships #togethermakingadifference #fun #fellowship #memorablemoments #wanttovolunteer #adelaideairport See less
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Pichi Richi Railway Proud to Support the Pichi Richi Marathon What a fantastic morning in Quorn as Pichi Richi Railway once again proudly supported the annual Pichi Richi Marathon.
Recently At 8.45am, Driver Dave Southon departed with a full train carrying around 60 competitors to Willows Halt, where runners began the popular 10.5km event back to Quorn.
For many participants, travelling to the start line by heritage train is a memorable part of the experience and one of the unique features that makes this event so special.
Congratulations to all 376 participants who crossed the finish line this year. We were especially delighted to see four Pichi Richi Railway members achieve an incredible result in the 10.5km event, finishing 1st – Todd, 2nd – Andrew, 3rd – Jarrod and 4th – Arnold. Members Dani and Pat Mackay also completed the full marathon - 42.2kms on the day.
What a fantastic achievement – congratulations to you all! 👏
Also congratulations to the 10.5km winner - Curtis Rogers.
We were also thrilled to receive this lovely message from the marathon organisers:
"Thank you for your ongoing support for the Pichi Richi Marathon. This year saw a stellar 376 participants cross the finish line. The train to the 10.5km start line remains a major drawcard and our big point of difference. The train was packed full and we heard some great feedback. We look forward to continuing this great partnership with planning now underway for the 45th Pichi Richi Marathon on Sunday 27 June 2027."
Thank you to everyone involved in making the day such a success, including our volunteers, Driver Dave Southon, the marathon organising committee and every competitor who took part.
We are proud to continue supporting this iconic Flinders Ranges event and look forward to welcoming everyone back again in 2027.
📸 Photo credits: H. Magarey and Terilisa Kerley-Hartley Southon.
#PichiRichiRailway #PichiRichiMarathon #Quorn #FlindersRanges #HeritageRailway #SouthAustralia #VisitFlindersRanges #RunSA #RegionalSA #VolunteerPowered #CommunityPartnership #ExperienceQuorn #flindersrangesvisitorinformation #flindersrangescouncil #charity
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All Aboard for Christmas in July – High Tea & Heritage Rail
Join Pichi Richi Railway and Tickle Belly Hill for a festive Christmas in July experience combining heritage rail travel, delicious food and warm country hospitality.
Step aboard the beautifully restored historic Barwell Brill Railcar, which first entered service in 1928 before being restored and returning to operation with Pichi Richi Railway in 1990, and enjoy a scenic journey through the breathtaking Pichi Richi Pass before arriving at Tickle Belly Hill for a festive Christmas in July High Tea.
Relax with friends and family as you indulge in a delicious selection of savoury and sweet treats, accompanied by live music, Christmas decorations and a special visit from Santa.
Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed to Tickle Belly Hill, renowned for creating memorable experiences, delicious food and warm country hospitality.
Surrounded by the beauty of the Flinders Ranges, you'll enjoy a festive Christmas-themed High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury and sweet treats, live music, Christmas decorations and a special visit from Santa. Together, Pichi Richi Railway and Tickle Belly Hill invite you to enjoy a unique Christmas in July celebration combining heritage rail travel, festive indulgence and the magic of the season.
Event Details
📅 Saturday 25 July 2026
🚂 Train Departs Quorn: 10:00am
🎄 Christmas in July High Tea at Tickle Belly Hill
🚂 Train Returns to Quorn: Approximately 2:00pm
💲 $100 per person
Your Festive High Tea Includes Tea, Coffee or Soft Drink on Arrival
Savoury Selection • Turkey, Cranberry & Brie Finger Sandwich • Smoked Salmon, Dill, Pickled Onion & Cream Cheese Finger Sandwich • Honey Ham, Pickles, Cheese & Mustard Mini Croissant • Chicken & Leek Vol-au-Vent • Roast Pumpkin, Feta & Caramelised Onion Parcel • Mini Quiche Lorraine
Sweet Selection • Scones with Jam & Cream • Sticky Date Pudding Cheesecake • Cherry Ripe Slice • Black Forest Cupcakes • Rum & Raisin Truffles • White Chocolate & Cranberry Cookie • Gingerbread
Bookings are essential and will be taken via the Pichi Richi Railway booking system. HERE
Dietary requirements must be advised at the time of booking in the special requests field.
Bookings close at midnight on Wednesday 22 July 2026 to allow final catering arrangements. Seats are limited, so gather your friends, embrace the festive spirit and enjoy a memorable Christmas in July celebration filled with steam, scenery, history and seasonal cheer
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Some places deserve more than just a quick stop... and Quorn is definitely one of them.
Nestled at the gateway to the spectacular Flinders Ranges, Quorn is a town best experienced at a slower pace.
Whether you're visiting during the upcoming school holidays or planning an escape later in the year, allow yourself time to discover everything this historic country town has to offer.
Step aboard Pichi Richi Railway's heritage Explorer train for a memorable journey between Quorn and Woolshed Flat, then spend some of your days exploring the many experiences waiting around town.
Wander the heritage streets, enjoy a coffee or bite to eat at one of Quorn's welcoming cafés, visit the new Spirit of the Flinders Bakery, browse the unique local shops, explore the beautiful community native gardens and discover why so many visitors fall in love with this friendly country town.
Take time to visit Flinders Gin, where handcrafted gin is created in beautifully restored historic farrier's stables dating back to the 1890s—a wonderful example of Quorn's rich history being preserved and celebrated.
Stretch your legs on one of the local walking trails, soak up the stunning Flinders Ranges scenery and finish your day watching one of our unforgettable country sunsets.
Once darkness falls, don't miss the magical Quorn Silo Light Show, where changing projections share local stories and create an unforgettable evening experience.
The best part?
There are plenty of wonderful accommodation options in and around Quorn, making it easy to stay a little longer and truly immerse yourself in everything the region has to offer.
With the school holidays just around the corner, our Explorer train will be running between Quorn and Woolshed Flat, making it the perfect family adventure, couples' getaway or weekend escape.
Take a little extra time. Stay a little longer. Experience everything Quorn has to offer.
🚂 Ride the train.
🌄 Explore the Flinders Ranges.
🌿 Discover our history.
🌅 Stay for the sunsets.
❤️ Leave with memories that will last a lifetime. 👇 Check out more info HERE discover even more about Quorn and the beautiful Flinders Ranges, then start planning your getaway today. We look forward to welcoming you aboard Pichi Richi Railway and to explore Quorn soon