Commissioner's Train

Step aboard the South Australian Railways Commissioner’s Inspection Train for a unique heritage railway experience through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass. With just 50 guests, enjoy an afternoon journey from Quorn to Tickle Belly Hill behind restored SAR steam locomotive Yx141, built in 1892.

In 1929–30, the South Australian Railways (SAR) selected three existing carriages and converted them for use by senior railway officers on inspection tours of the northern narrow-gauge railway network. The three carriages – Flinders, Sturt and Light – have all survived and are now part of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society’s collection.

Your journey begins at Quorn behind restored SAR steam locomotive Yx141, originally built in 1892. Travelling through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass, the train continues to Tickle Belly Hill, where you can step ashore and enjoy an Australian-themed afternoon tea.

One of the three carriages, Flinders, remains in its original Commissioner’s Train configuration. Converted as an Officer’s Inspection Car in 1929–30, it contains a sleeping compartment with its own en suite, while large observation windows and seats at each end were provided for viewing the railway and countryside. Light was the kitchen and dining car, Sturt was an 6-berth officer's sleeping car, and both have since been adapted for passenger use but retain their connection to this historic train.

Along the way, our volunteers will share stories of the railway and the people who travelled these lines, before you disembark at Tickle Belly Hill for an Australian-themed afternoon tea. After time to relax and enjoy the country atmosphere, rejoin the train for the return journey to Quorn.

With only 50 guests on each service, the Commissioner’s Train offers a more intimate way to experience the Pichi Richi Pass, combining steam travel, railway history and country hospitality in a single afternoon.

• Half-day heritage steam train journey from Quorn through the Pichi Richi Pass
• Travel aboard the three-carriage SAR Commissioner’s Inspection Train: Flinders, Sturt and Light
• Restored SAR steam locomotive Yx141, built in 1892
• Approximately 3.5 hours return, Quorn to Tickle Belly Hill (35 km)
• Australian-themed afternoon tea at Tickle Belly Hill included
• Departs Quorn at 1.00 pm and returns at approximately 4.30 pm
• Route map

Steam locomotive Yx141 is planned to operate this service. Motive power may be altered when necessary for operational reasons.

Timetable

2026

2027

Current year fares

Bookings

See the bookings page for booking information.