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- Written by: Julie Johnson
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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- Written by: Julie Johnson
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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- Written by: Julie Johnson
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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- Written by: Julie Johnson
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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- Written by: Julie Johnson
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
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Where is Quorn,
It was one of the questions we were asked most often at the recent Adelaide Model Railway Exhibition at the Wayville Showground.
So, rather than just tell you, our wonderful volunteer Wayne has kindly answered it for everyone.
🎥 Take a moment to hear Wayne explain where Quorn is located, how easy it is to get there from Adelaide, and the heritage train experiences waiting for you once you arrive.
Whether you're visiting from overseas, interstate or right here in South Australia, we hope this short video helps you plan your next adventure with us.
🚂 We look forward to welcoming you aboard in the beautiful Flinders Ranges
#PichiRichiRailway #Quorn #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #VisitSouthAustralia #SeeSouthAustralia #ExploreSouthAustralia
#Australia #SeeAustralia #VisitAustralia #HolidayHereThisYear #TravelAustralia #AustralianTravel #HeritageRailway #SteamTrain #SteamTrains #TrainTravel #RailwayHeritage #HeritageTourism #RegionalSouthAustralia #OutbackSouthAustralia #RoadTripAustralia #DiscoverAustralia #ExploreMore #BucketListTravel #TourismAustralia #TravelTheWorld #InternationalTravel #VisitRegionalAustralia #VolunteerPowered
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
We're proud to be part of the Aussie Travel Code ...
When you're planning your journey on the Pichi Richi Railway, we want you to enjoy everything our incredible Flinders Ranges region has to offer—and travel safely, respectfully and prepared.
The Aussie Travel Code is packed with handy local information, including travel updates, road conditions, weather, safety tips and regional advice to help you make the most of your visit.
Before you travel, take a few minutes to check it out and help us keep this remarkable region special for everyone.
Happy travels, and we'll see you onboard!
Check it out HERE
#flindersranges #partners #tourism #travelsafely #helpful #resource #southaustralia
#travelourway #gday #adelaideairport #4wd #camping #traveling #experience #staysafe #environmentallyfriendly
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Award-Winning Restoration – Carriage 470
What an incredible achievement for our dedicated Carriage Department volunteers, who have been recognised with the ATHRA (Association of Tourist and Heritage Rail Australia) Passenger Vehicle Restoration Award for the restoration of Carriage 470.
Since 2020, volunteers have committed their time, skills and resources to restoring this historic South Australian Railways carriage, originally built at Islington in 1911 and preserving an important piece of railway heritage for future generations to enjoy.
The restoration was truly a labour of love:
🔹 14,000 volunteer hours contributed
🔹 160 window catches restored
🔹 40 windows and 40 shutters restored
🔹 1.5 kilometres of timber used to line the ceiling
🔹 14,000 wood screws installed
🔹 560 litres of paint applied This award recognises the dedication, craftsmanship and perseverance of the many volunteers who contributed to the project, including Alan Ainsworth, Geoff Annear, Mike Brett, Don Bryker, Bruce Collins, Geoff Cox,
Chris Dunbar, Matt Dunbar, Dave Fisher, Kath Fisher, Dean Foster, Wayne Hoskin, Rob Jones, Travis McDonald, Paul Moffitt, Eric Platt, Les Potter, the late Ray King, and many others who lent a hand along the way. Thank you to everyone involved in preparing and submitting the award nomination, and thank you to ATHRA for recognising the restoration of Carriage 470 with this prestigious national award. Congratulations to all involved in this remarkable project and thank you for helping preserve an important piece of South Australian rail history
Photo credit: Kay Cawthorne; Peter Taylor and other volunteers.
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Out with the old, in with the new ...
Some projects may not be glamorous, but they are incredibly important to the future of Pichi Richi Railway and the experience of our passengers.
In May, work began on removing the old toilet facilities at Woolshed Flat to make way for modern, more accessible amenities for our visitors.
A special mention to Liam, who undertook the demolition work and helped get the project underway. What many visitors don't see is the enormous amount of planning, organisation and volunteer effort that takes place behind the scenes to bring projects like this to life.
From concept and approvals through to construction, transport, installation and final handover, many hands have played a part in making this improvement a reality.
On 6 June 2026, we celebrated the official opening of the new facilities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the handover of the keys to our President, Clive.
The new toilet block was constructed off-site before being transported to Woolshed Flat, representing a significant investment in the future of Pichi Richi Railway and the comfort of our passengers. Every improvement, big or small, helps strengthen our railway for future generations and enhances the experience for those travelling with us today. A heartfelt thank you to all of the volunteers, supporters and contributors who helped make this project possible.
Your dedication continues to make a lasting difference.
👏 Well done to everyone involved.
📸 Leanne McGill
#PichiRichiRailway #VolunteerPowered #WoolshedFlat #KeepingHistoryAlive #HeritageRailway #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #CommunityInAction #volutneers #toilets #southaustralia #tourism #ticsa #tourismaustralia #trainlovers #travellers #AccessibleDesign #visitsouthaustralia #gday #history
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Workshop Progress at Pichi Richi Railway
There's always something happening behind the workshop doors at Pichi Richi Railway, and recently our volunteers continued work on both W934 and 873.
Recent progress includes:
• A new valve spindle for W934's main steam stop valve being prepared.
• 873 looking more complete with its pilot and traditional chopper coupler now fitted.
• New batteries delivered to Quorn for installation on 873.
Every job, big or small, helps preserve an important part of South Australia's railway history for future generations to enjoy.
A huge thank you to our dedicated volunteers who generously give their time, skills and knowledge to help preserve and maintain our heritage locomotives and rollingstock. Their efforts help keep South Australian railway history alive and ensure these historic trains can continue to be experienced by visitors for years to come.
If you'd like to see what happens behind the scenes, learn new skills, share existing ones, or simply lend a hand, we'd love to hear from you.
📩 Find out more via the Support Us tab on our website or send a message to this page.
Photo Credit: Jarrod Smythe
#wanttovolunteer #engineers #carpenters #youth #trainlovers #maintenance #support #community #southaustralia #family #restoration #history #tourism #volunteers #volunteersmakeadifference #weekend #together #PichiRichiRailway #VolunteerPowered #WorkshopUpdate #RailwayRestoration #HeritageRailway #Quorn #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #volunteers #visitsouthaustralia
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
Volunteers Making Tracks at Pichi Richi Railway
A big thank you to the Coromandel Valley Men's Fellowship Group who recently spent four days in Quorn helping with a range of important maintenance projects across the Pichi Richi Railway.
For the third year running, twelve volunteers travelled north to enjoy the unique experience of working on a heritage railway while contributing their time, skills and enthusiasm to help preserve an important part of South Australia's history.
Working alongside Pichi Richi Railway volunteers including Neil Palmer, Andrew Magarey, John Hall, Brian McKay and others, the group assisted with track maintenance near Lake Knockout, repairs to the historic Goods Shed, weed control around the depot and station precinct, preparation of timber for locomotive operations, and equipment maintenance.
The visiting team brought with them a wealth of experience from a wide range of professions including engineering, farming, aviation, IT and youth work, proving once again that many hands make light work.
Of course, it wasn't all work. The weekend also included shared meals, an early morning hike to Devils Peak, some AFL viewing, and time spent enjoying the spectacular Flinders Ranges and the warm hospitality of the Quorn community.
Heritage railways are built on partnerships, friendship and volunteer spirit.
We sincerely thank everyone involved for their contribution and look forward to welcoming the Fellowship Group back to Quorn again in the future.
❤️ Preserving history together — one project, one sleeper and one friendship at a time.
Want to Volunteer & learn more - Click HERE
#trains #volunteers #togetherwemakeadifference #southaustralia #travel #holidays #volunteeringisfun #collectiveimpact #maintenance #trades #help #southaustralia
#tourismsa #visitsouthaustralia #travelourway #gday
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
We're a Quality Tourism Accredited Business
Pichi Richi Railway is proud to be a Quality Tourism & Sustainable Accredited Business.
Our operations, facilities, visitor experiences and sustainability practices have been independently assessed against national quality tourism standards, giving you confidence when you book with us.
From our heritage steam and diesel trains to our stations, volunteers and visitor experiences in the spectacular Flinders Ranges, we're committed to delivering a memorable and high-quality experience every time you travel with us.
This accreditation recognises the dedication of our volunteers, members and supporters who work tirelessly behind the scenes to preserve South Australia's railway heritage and share it with visitors from near and far.
🚂 Travel with confidence.
🌄 Experience the Flinders Ranges.
❤️ Discover living railway heritage.
Find out more about accreditation information here
📷 Photo credit: J Batchelder
#PichiRichiRailway #QualityTourism #QualityTourismAccredited #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #HeritageRailway #VolunteerPowered
#QualityTourismAccredited #AustralianTourism #AdventureTourism #CrossCountryTours #ATDW #SATC #TICSA #satc #tourismaustralia
#internationaltraveler #internationaltraveller #interstatetraveler #usa #uk #vietnam #japan
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- Written by: Julie Johnson
More Than Just Trains... It's a Community
In April, Pichi Richi Railway held its Annual General Meeting, with a wonderful turnout of members and volunteers coming together to reflect on another busy year and help shape the future of our railway.
Following the AGM, members stayed on for a General Meeting, with plenty of discussion, ideas and updates shared.
Of course, no gathering would be complete without taking time to enjoy some food, conversation and camaraderie along the way!
Our members play an important role in helping preserve and grow this unique piece of South Australian heritage. Through their support, they help ensure future generations can continue to experience the magic of heritage rail travel through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass.
Have you ever thought about becoming a member?
Membership gives you the opportunity to:
✔ Have a say in the future direction of the Society through voting rights
✔ Receive our quarterly Patter magazine and regular newsletters
✔ Connect with a community of passionate railway enthusiasts and volunteers
✔ Enjoy one complimentary Explorer train journey each membership year
Whether you'd like to become actively involved, stay informed, support heritage preservation or simply enjoy the benefits of membership, we'd love to welcome you aboard.
To learn more about membership options and rates to support us. Click HERE
Together, we're keeping history on track...
#PichiRichiRailway #SupportUs #BecomeAMember #HeritageRailway #VolunteerPowered #QuornSA #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #RailwayHeritage #CommunitySpirit #PreservingHistory #HeritageTourism #RegionalSA #VolunteerLife #KeepingHistoryOnTrack #PichiRichiRailway #SupportUs #BecomeAMember #HeritageRailway #VolunteerPowered #QuornSA #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #RailwayHeritage #CommunitySpirit #PreservingHistory #HeritageTourism #RegionalSA #VolunteerLife #KeepingHistoryOnTrack