Discover Ipswich Magazine 2020

HERITAGE

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Train adventures

S H A R E T H E F U N ! # D I S C O V E R I P S W I C H

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Ipswich has a long history of rail. The first train to run in Queensland set off from The Workshops – as they were called – to what is now known as Grandchester over 100 years ago.

For decades The Workshops were the centre of rail construction, maintenance and technology for Queensland’s rail industry. Thousands of workers constructed hundreds of trains right here in Ipswich. Now Ipswich remembers that past by bringing the romance of rail into the modern era – find out how you can re-live the past too.

Refuel at the on-site cafe and explore historic buildings and beautifully restored locomotives. Take a museum heritage tour or have a go on the diesel simulator. 2. Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway from 60 reviews. Re-live the romance of steam train travel with a trip aboard one of the Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway’s vintage carriages. They run smaller 15 minute loops, perfect with younger kids or a one hour and 45 minute picnic train with a stop-over at Swanbank where you can find a shady spot for a picnic, bring your own food or enjoy a

range of food trucks. Pop into the station for heritage railway gifts and let the kids run free in the children’s playground. You can also jump on board a heritage bus out to the Cooneana Heritage Centre. 3. Grandchester Model Steam Railway On the first Sunday of the month the Grandchester Railway Station is opened to the public for tours. It’s also when you can jump on board the Grandchester Model Steam Railway which is fun for all ages. See the scaled down versions of the steam trains, only half an hour from Ipswich.

1. The Workshops Rail Museum from 271 reviews.

This award-winning museum offers something unique for children as it comes with a Little Nippers area for toddlers to get hands on. Older kids will love the interactive displays at the Sciencentre.