Puffing Billy Railway anniversary celebrations marked a major milestone for one of Australia’s best-known heritage steam railways, with the 125th anniversary observed on Sunday 14 December.

Puffing Billy Railway anniversary: 125 years on track
Monbulk member, Daniela De Martino attended Puffing Billy’s 125 anniversary on Sunday, 14 December. (Supplied)

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Monbulk member Daniela De Martino, representing the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, joined an inaugural Community Open Day to recognise the railway’s history and its enduring ties to the local community.

“Puffing Billy is a living piece of our history that continues to bring so much joy to so many,” Ms De Martino said. She described it as a Victorian icon that not only draws visitors, but also supports local jobs and businesses while showcasing the Dandenong Ranges. “On Sunday we celebrated 125 years of memories and the incredible volunteers and staff who make this experience possible.”

Visitor demand for the Puffing Billy Railway anniversary year

Puffing Billy welcomes over 487,000 passengers annually, and more than 11 million people have experienced the railway since its reopening in 1962, as outlined by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions. The iconic rail journey is currently sold out for months in advance, reflecting its place as a premier Victorian attraction.

The railway remains a community focal point, with more than 300 volunteers supporting up to six daily journeys through the Dandenong Ranges to keep services running.

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Community Open Day activities along the heritage steam railway

To include locals in the anniversary program, residents living within a 10-kilometre radius of Puffing Billy Railway stations were encouraged to join the festivities, with complimentary train services provided, as reported by Ranges Trader Star Mail.

Across the stations, community groups added their own touches to the day. Highlights included a barbecue hosted by the Country Fire Authority at Menzies Creek and a bush band performance at Gembrook.

Puffing Billy Railway chief executive officer Stefanie Straub said the 125-year mark is also about the relationship the railway has built with its community. “Celebrating 125 years of Puffing Billy Railway is more than marking a milestone; it’s about honouring the deep and lasting connection we share with our local community,” she said. “Puffing Billy has always been more than a train; it’s a living part of our region’s story.”

Signature events and how to book tickets

The railway’s program includes the annual running festival, the immersive night light show Trail of Lights, Day out with Thomas featuring Thomas the Tank Engine themed rides and activities, and the Polar Express Christmas Ride—an interactive festive experience with a Santa meet-and-greet—featured on the Puffing Billy Railway events calendar.

To plan ahead and check availability—especially while Puffing Billy tickets are sold out for months in advance—bookings are available via the Buy Puffing Billy Tickets page.

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