Ride the legendary Gulflander for an iconic outback rail experience

Road Trip

The Gulf Savannah region of Queensland is a tapestry of rugged landscapes, rich history and unparalleled experiences.

The Gulflander train in North West Queensland.

Nestled in the heart of this region is the home of the legendary tourism train – The Gulflander.

Affectionately known as the ‘Tin Hare’, this 1950s rail motor travels between Normanton and Croydon from April to October each year (depending on the weather).

A trip aboard the Gulflander is a unique and intimate experience with a maximum of about 90 passengers.

Tours range from one to five hours’ duration, with a tour to suit every Gulf Savannah adventurer!

Our Officer in Charge (also known as train driver) will keep you entertained with amusing stories of colourful characters, local trivia, and point out the abundant wildlife, plants and landmarks along the way.

The railway line was originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton with the rich goldfields of Croydon, but today the Gulflander is a tourism icon and a working tribute to the early peoples of the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Said to go from “nowhere to nowhere”, this heritage-listed railway line opened in 1891.

The construction of the line is an ingenious engineering feat and even today, retains most of the original rail and sleepers, and is the only Queensland railway still measured in miles.

A trip on the Gulflander is more than a rail journey – it's a living piece of Queensland history, a once in a lifetime experience for young and old.

The Gulflander’s capacity is limited, so be sure to book ahead by phoning 1800 577 245 or visiting the website.


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