QUEENSLAND Rail’s Sunshine Express put on a show on the weekend with heritage carriages being hauled by historic Queensland Built BB181/4 steam engine, affectionately known as Bety, to the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.
People from far and wide queued with anticipation to board at the North Ipswich Railway workshops eager to participate to travel in style from a bygone era.
Upon arrival, people were invited to step on board and take in the craftmanship of ornate timber and leather seating.
Those that were fortunate enough to be in the premier class carriage also admired the overhead sleeping quarters and comfort and style of this past work of art.
With a blast of the whistle and steam, we depart the railway workshops station and make the unusual trek through one of Ipswich’s largest shopping centres, before crossing the heritage rail bridge over the Bremer River and off into the countryside.
Passengers view many different rural lifestyles as kangaroos burst from the bush and begin a startled race alongside.
Bety’s a charmer, as locals are captivated and feel compelled to wave and photograph as she passes with a full head of steam.
Slowing as we call into Rosewood as a firetruck meets us and tags along to meet the current rural fire regulations.
Our friendly Australian Railway Historical Society – Queensland Division (ARHS) staff then make coffee and people settle back to enjoy the ride, taking in the sights and sounds with the gentle roll of the carriages.
Refreshingly people relax and relegate their mobile phones to photos only and engage in good old-fashioned conversation.
Passing through historic tunnels and emerging onto the Lockyer plains, witnessing an array of wildlife, with whistle blowing through waving farming communities as we take in the sights of the famous salad bowl.
Bety begins to slow and chug like the little engine that could, as we climb the range, working up a sweat, while inside attentive ARHS staff serve cheese platters and your choice of beverage.
After viewing spectacular range views, we arrive at Toowoomba Station where those that choose to do so undertake their own activities before the trip back.
With most taking advantage of their package including fine dining and bus transfers to view spectacular Carnival of flowers gardens that we come to expect from this premier local event.
ARHS staff tend to all needs as we make our way back to Ipswich and passengers reflect on a remarkable day in our region.
• The writer was a guest of Queensland Rail.
