Qld Rail marks 160-year milestone with historic steam engine rides

Steam locomotives have thundered back into Brisbane's Roma Street station after a six-year absence as Queensland Rail celebrates its 160th birthday.

Queensland Rail turned 160 on Thursday with workers and rail fans celebrating alongside original steam locomotives at Roma Street station.

For the first time in six years, passengers will have the chance to ride a steam train in the heart of Brisbane.

Steam engines will run regular 50 cent services from Roma Street as part of the Ekka from Roma Street to Exhibition station on People’s Day Wednesday August 13.

On Thursday, a pair of heritage steam engines, No. 1089, or “Bety” the BB18 ¼ and classmate No. 1079, arrived at Roma Street to a packed platform of fascinated railfans, young and old.

Steam train arrives at Roma Street Station celebrating 160 of Qld Rail service. Picture: Liam Kidston

Bety was running under her own steam and would soon depart hauling a special Birthday train to Pinkenba along some of the first lines laid in the 1800s.

The first section of Queensland railways opened between Ipswich and Grandchester on 31 July 1865.

Minister for Transport Brent Mickelberg said he was proud to celebrate rail heritage.

“I want to acknowledge all of those who have served the public on the railways so well over these years,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“Every kid loves steam trains thanks to Thomas the Tank Engine and my kids would have loved to be here today.”

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg during a news conference at Roma Street Station celebrating 160 of Qld Rail service. Picture: Liam Kidston

Driver Peter Cohen said the team at Ipswich’s Queensland Museum Rail Workshops had done a great job restoring and prepping the locos and coaches for main line work on the busy city network.

“I’m very fortunate to be able to drive these magnificent machines, they always draw a crowd,” he said.

Rail fan Riley said he loves trains because they “bring people together”.

Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said the operator was proud to connect communities for 160 years.

“We know how crucial the introduction of the railway was to the development of our great state,” Ms Stapleton said.

Queensland Rail CEO Katarzyna Stapleton during a news conference at Roma Street Station celebrating 160 of Qld Rail service. Picture: Liam Kidston

“There is a huge rail-loving community and we know they have been asking for steam train trips to celebrate this significant milestone.”

Originally published as Qld Rail marks 160-year milestone with historic steam engine rides