Puffing Billy: Belgrave to Lakeside historic train starts after COVID lockdown

Popular tourist railway Puffing Billy is set to start steaming through the scenic hills again after 250 days benched. Here’s what you need to know to catch a ride.

Puffing Billy is back on track.

Hills iconic railway Puffing Billy is set to start steaming through the Dandenong Ranges again after months in lockdown.

Families can book their trips for Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, travelling from Belgrave to Lakeside, with the train’s wheels set to roll from November 28.

The popular tourist steam engine has been off the tracks for 250 days but during that time team members have been preparing the seamless return to services maintaining and clearing 24km of track, trestle bridges, and servicing locomotives.

Railway chief executive Steve O’Brien said visitors could feel confident about escaping to the timeless wonder of Australia’s favourite steam train with a COVID safe plan in place, as well as increased safety and sanitising processes.

“We’re excited to welcome back all guests to Puffing Billy and have been truly humbled by the outpouring of support received during our temporary closure,” Mr O’Brien said.

“We have been working carefully behind-the-scenes to minimise the number of contact points between customers, staff and volunteers and preparing our COVID safe plan.

“This time of temporary closure has also given us the opportunity to introduce new COVID safe experiences that we now look forward to sharing with the community.”

He said family and friends also had the option of enjoying private and comfort by booking a private carriage.

He said Puffing Billy Railway encouraged all patrons to follow the advice and directives of government health authorities when visiting.

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