The Ghan returns to Darwin as service gets back on track post-COVID

THE Ghan pulled into Darwin Passenger Rail station yesterday evening for the first time in five months as Australia’s most beloved train got back on track.

THE Ghan pulled into Darwin Passenger Rail station yesterday evening for the first time in five months as Australia’s most beloved train got back on track.

Ninety-one-year-old passenger Edward Dowsett shares his birthday with the maiden journey of the iconic train and said it was his first time on the main model, having been on smaller models during previous journeys.

“It was really marvellous, it was an eye-opener. I’ve seen all the Ghans but I’ve never been on the main one, the big one,” he said.

“I’ve been on all the old Ghans, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and it all fell into place.

“It’s great sharing a birthday with The Ghan, you’ll never forget it.”

After a five-month hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, The Ghan once again arrives in Darwin. Passenger Edward Dowsett was on the journey for his first trip. Pictures: Che Chorley

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As he pulled into Darwin, Mr Dowsett pulled off his jumper, excited by the tropical warmth and was ready to see his granddaughter Bronwyn Van Dijk, who he had come to visit with his daughter Deralee Dowsett, who flew up yesterday morning.

Ms Van Dijk has followed in her grandfather’s footsteps — he too once called Darwin home.

“Adelaide’s freezing and even in some of the cabins it’s cold,” Mr Dowsett said.

“I used to work and live up here and I did for years.

“It’s so good to be back here again.”

After a five-month hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, The Ghan once again arrives in Darwin. Picture: Che Chorley

The first trip since the coronavirus pandemic had just 93 passengers, compared to the usual number of close to 300, spread out over 23 carriages instead of 39.

Social distancing measures were also in place, with the same amount of restaurant and lounge carriages as a fully booked journey to ensure people were spaced across the train.

Journey manager Stacey Chau said passengers and staff alike were excited to hit the railway track and head to the Northern Territory after five long months.

“It’s been really exciting, the train crew have been pretty keen to get back on board and it was so good to see the guests back on board enjoying it,” she said.

After a five-month hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, The Ghan once again arrives in Darwin. Picture: Will Zwar

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“The last trip was mid-March, so we shut down for five months working on different procedures to get it back in place and now we’re finally back on the tracks.”

“We’re just happy to get back on track with the tourism industry.”