Puffing Billy train journey lifts ban on historic tradition

Puffing Billy train journey lifts ban on historic tradition
By Alexandra Coulton


Train travel enthusiasts will be overjoyed to learn that a much-loved tradition is returning to Melbourne’s iconic Puffing Billy train rides.

Those travelling on the historic train journey can now sit on the sills of the steam train’s open-side carriages for the first time in four years.

The first train to run since the ban was overturned rolled out of the station with both kids and adults with their legs out on 3 February.

“It’s been a labour of love for our team, partners, and supporters, and we are absolutely delighted to be able to offer the iconic sitting on the sills experience to adults and children aged from four to thirteen once again,” said Peter Abbott, CEO of Puffing Billy Railway.

“Nothing beats the ride through the towering forests, around bends, over bridges and streams, waving at passers-by, all the while sitting on the carriage sill as Puffing Billy steams gently along the tracks.”

Puffing Billy Railway has provided adventures through Victoria’s stunning Dandenong Ranges for over 120 years and is a beloved part of Melbourne’s history.

The company banned passengers from dangling their legs over the side of the train in 2018 after the train collided with a minibus. Nobody was injured in the crash, but according to the Age, 16 people were taken to hospital.

The ban caused backlash amongst locals and passengers with fond memories of the practice.

Sitting on the Sills trains run from Belgrave to Lakeside.

Located only a 60-minute drive from the east of Melbourne’s CBD, Puffing Billy is located between the famous regions of the Yarra Valley, Phillip Island and Mornington Peninsula.

In other Puffing Billy news, lunch can now be ordered from the new state-of-the-art Lakeside Visitor Centre café menu, where guests can dine in prior to departure, or fill their picnic baskets with tasty treats to enjoy on the journey.

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