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| THE GREAT TRAINS OF AUSTRALIA |
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THE GHAN |
* Route: Adelaide – Alice Springs – Darwin Duration: 2 nights in either direction Distance: 2979 kilometres Frequency: Once weekly Adelaide to Darwin. Twice weekly Adelaide to Alice Springs. The Ghan. It’s an odd name for a train but in Australian history it is a living legend. The legend has soared to new heights with the extension of The Ghan journey to Darwin. When The Ghan first departed Adelaide for Alice Springs, it was always intended that it would one day travel through to Darwin. More than 70 years on, that dream has become reality. Boarding The Ghan in Adelaide or Darwin, experience one of the most fascinating great train journeys of the world. Connections are available on the Indian Pacific and The Overland for guests travelling to or from Sydney and Melbourne. Enjoy 2 nights aboard this great train in either direction. Marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes from fertile countryside surrounding Adelaide to the rusty hues of the Red Centre, onto the tropical splendour of the Top End. The Ghan is the ultimate journey through the heart of the continent. Guidepost Travel can provide you with tour and sightseeing options from Alice Springs and Darwin.
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THE INDIAN PACIFIC |
* Route: Sydney - Adelaide - Perth Duration: 3 nights in either direction Distance: 4352 kilometres Frequency: Twice weekly in both directions The Indian Pacific gives you two oceans on one of the world's longest and greatest train journeys. But most of your cruising will be across the vast continent of Australia. From the spectacular Blue Mountains to the treeless plains of The Nullarbor, where the train travels the world's longest straight stretch of railway track (478 kilometres), see unique landscapes unfold and spot a fascinating array of wildlife from the comfort of the lounge or your cabin. Guidepost Travel can provide full details of travel options and costs on the Indian Pacific. Get up close and see the sights of some of our most famous outback towns when you enjoy an optional off-train sightseeing tour. The great train offers these tours during scheduled stops at Broken Hill, Adelaide and gold rich Kalgoorlie. A remote outpost on the Nullarbor Plain called Cook presents a further opportunity to stretch your legs.
Book The INDIAN PACIFIC here
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THE OVERLAND |
* Route: Adelaide – Melbourne, Melbourne – Adelaide Duration: Daylight Service in both directions Distance: 828 kilometres Frequency: Three times weekly in both directions The Overland commenced service in 1887, pioneering intercapital rail travel between Melbourne and Adelaide. The century old name came from the term "Overlander", an adventurer who had travelled across the country. In recognition of its history, The Overland’s emblem is the Kookaburra, symbolic of a new day and new beginnings. The Overland today remains a comfortable and convenient way to travel between these two southern cities.
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XPT'S OF NEW SOUTH WALES |
* Magnificent views, a warm and friendly atmosphere and a journey in comfort are all trademarks of traveling with CountryLink. When you board one of the XPTs or XPLORER you can be confident that your trip in one of the world's best rail fleets will be an experience to remember. Through huge windows, the panorama and drama of the Australian landscape will unfold before you. Once aboard, the most you'll have to do is decide which snacks, meals or refreshments you'd like to enjoy. Our on-board crews are trained to help make your journey an enjoyable one, so don't hesitate to ask them for any assistance. CountryLink is proud to show you the wonders of New South Wales, Brisbane and Melbourne and wishes you a very special journey. Now sit back, relax and share the CountryLink XPT/XPLORER experience. The CountryLink XPT (Xpress Passenger Train) was first introduced to New South Wales in 1982. In 1993, brand new carriages were delivered and the existing carriages were completely refurbished with new seats, carpet and curtains. The CountryLink XPT travels from Sydney to Brisbane, Melbourne, Dubbo and Grafton. Based on British Rail's Intercity 125, the CountryLink XPTs were built in Australia and have been adapted to Australian conditions. Guidepost Travel can arrange your travel anywhere on the Countrylink network.
Book all COUNTRYLINK XPT & COACH services here
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THE SUNLANDER
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* The Sunlander shines bright as one of Australia's longest running and most endearing rail journeys. For 50 fabulous years, several times a week, The Sunlander has weaved its way along Queensland's incredible east coastline. It's a relaxing, comfortable journey that runs between Queensland's tropical capital, Brisbane, and laid back Cairns, where the Great Barrier Reef meets the timeless Daintree wilderness. Your holiday experience aboard The Sunlander begins the moment you step aboard and continues all the way. While the surroundings are comfy and cosy, and the ever changing scenery is sensational, it's the warm and very social atmosphere that makes The Sunlander so special. If it's an all inclusive indulgence you're seeking, then the premium Queenslander Class service is for you. For the more budget conscious traveller, The Sunlander offers a variety of choices, with roomettes, twinettes and general seating. And no matter where you are onboard, you're never far from great food and refreshments. Comfort, flexibility and a great social atmosphere have made The Sunlander one of Australia's great journeys and a firm favourite with travellers between Brisbane and Cairns. This scenic journey, which snakes its way along Queensland's east coast several times a week, offers travel options to suit every traveller from the most discerning through to the budget conscious. For those who crave the creature comforts, Queenslander Class is the only way to travel. This premium, all inclusive style of travel features first-class accommodation, fine dining in an exclusive restaurant car, entertainment and local commentary, personalised service, and a host of extra special touches to ensure a memorable journey. Contact Guidepost Travel for information on the Sunlander.
Book THE SUNLANDER here
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SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK |
* An Outback adventure starts with a journey on the Spirit of the Outback. This fascinating 1,300 km journey between Brisbane and Longreach offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia, combined with interesting commentary, a social atmosphere and an authentic dining experience. From the comfort of a sleeper or seat, passengers will wonder at the ever-changing landscape as the train moves from the coast into the heart of the Outback with its rugged mountains, wide-open plains and historic towns. Onboard dining is an experience in itself with the restaurant car serving hearty Aussie meals, while the club and lounge cars are ideal for a relaxed drink and chinwag with fellow passengers. The touring opportunities at each destination are endless with a host of attractions including the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, Outback Heritage Centre and Qantas Founders Museum. So jump aboard the Spirit of the Outback and discover the real Australia. If you really want to experience the Queensland Outback, there's no better way than aboard the Spirit of the Outback. This fascinating 1,300km journey between Brisbane and Longreach takes you back in time to give you a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia.
Book the SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK here
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QUEENSLAND TILT TRAINS |
* Discover Queensland's tropical delights in comfort aboard the country's most innovative train, the Tilt Train. Travelling between Brisbane and Cairns twice a week and Brisbane and Rockhampton six times a week in each direction, the Tilt Train is a comfortable and convenient way to access the many tourist destinations of Queensland.
The Tilt Train is fast becoming the most popular way to explore Queensland's wealth of coastal destinations in comfort and style. After all, the Tilt Train is Australia's most modern train and makes it so easy to reach the gateways to great holidays. Some of the fantastic holiday experiences include whale watching at Hervey Bay, spectacular Fraser Island, the Great Barrier Reef off Lady Elliot Island, and turtle hatching near Bundaberg. Travelling along the coast is extremely comfortable and quietly relaxing aboard the Tilt Train.
Passengers aboard the Brisbane/Cairns service enjoy business style seating, with personal entertainment screens, laptop connections and personal power supply, with the option of seated meal service, or dining in the Club Car. If you're planning a shorter journey between South-East and Queensland's Central Coast, the Tilt Train can connect you with most major holiday destinations. And this service offers you the choice of Business or Economy seating. Phone or email Guidepost Travel for immediate bookings on Queensland's Tilt Trains.
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THE GULFLANDER |
* The Gulflander is said to go from nowhere to nowhere. In fact the train travels from Normanton to Croydon in the Gulf Country of northern Queensland. The line is about 150 kilometres long and was completed in the late 1800’s. The line has an interesting construction feature. Steel sleepers were used on the line. They were hollow and packed with mud. This avoided the need for ballast on the track. Most of the sleepers are still in place. The line was designed to cope with floods during the wet season. Floodwater and debris flows over the line. This left the track intact after the floods subside.
Steam locomotives were used until 1922 when rail motors were introduced. The present four-car rail motor is known as “the old tin hare”. This nickname was also applied to rail motors on the Sydney rail system.
The Gulflander is said to be more an adventure than a train ride. The train crews are qualified guides and will stop the train and talk about points of interest. Morning tea and interpretative walks are provided at Blackbull along the line.
The Gulflander leaves Normanton at 8.30 am on Wednesdays and arrives at Croydon about 1.30 pm on the same day. The train returns on Thursdays. Croydon is an old gold mining town with a number of historic buildings. A new station is being constructed at Croydon.
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THE SAVANNAHLANDER |
Savannahlander - the outback rail experience
* The Savannahlander is a classic 1960 Rail Motor which travels between Cairns and Forsayth, giving passengers one of the great rail experiences of the world as it rattles its way from the coast, up the scenic Kuranda Railway, through World Heritage listed rainforests, the through the savannah to outback Australia. "The Silver Bullet" as the train is affectionately known, was state-of-the-art when it was brought into service. Now it reflects the pace and grace of a by-gone era, while at the same time offering a unique experience to people adventurous enough to make the journey.This grand-old-lady travels at a sedate pace, and stops at suitable locations for the driver to point out interesting landscape features to the passengers. For "the locals" of the outback, The Savannahlander is still a vital communications link, while for the fortunate visitor to the region, it offers a unique rail experience, and an insight into one of the most diverse and fascinating regions of Australia. Guidepost Tours have tours into outback Queensland incorporating tours on the Savannahlander
Book SAVANNAHLANDER travel and tours here
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THE INLANDER |
* A historic journey from the tropical city of Townsville to the mining centre of Mount Isa, The Inlander offers the opportunity to experience the heritage and natural treasures of North Queensland's rugged, yet beautiful inland. This 977 km trip, enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort, travels through Charters Towers, across the Great Dividing Range and through the mining towns of Hughenden and Julia Creek before delivering passengers into the heart of Australia. There is so much to do and see from Mount Isa including the prehistoric exhibits at the Riversleigh Fossils Interpretive Centre and tours of underground mines. So hitch a ride aboard The Inlander for a historic journey from the tropical city of Townsville to the big mining centre of Mount Isa. It's a fascinating 1,000km journey that takes you through an array of historic mining towns like Hughenden, Julia Creek and Charters Towers. Guidepost Travel can advise on touring through outback Queensland. Ask about special rates on accommodation. When you're not taking in the view, or striking up a conversation with fellow passengers, you can always enjoy the two lounge cars with audio and video entertainment. A journey aboard The Inlander presents the perfect opportunity to experience the heritage and natural treasures of North Queensland's rugged, yet beautiful inland.
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THE WESTLANDER |
* Discover the pioneering spirit of Australia's Outback with a journey aboard The Westlander. This scenic journey from Brisbane travels across the Great Dividing Range and through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs before arriving in Charleville, the largest town in south-west Queensland. Enjoy a comfortable journey in a choice of sleeper or seat, with a welcoming club car offering appetising meals and the chance to meet fellow travellers. An array of Outback experiences awaits in and around Charleville, including the new Cosmos Centre, a dedicated stargazing observatory; the Royal Flying Doctor's Service Base; and the opal fields of the south-west. Come aboard The Westlander and discover the true pioneering spirit of Queensland's Outback. The air-conditioned Westlander offers you a choice of First Class and Economy seating and sleepers, and the certainty of an unforgettable travel experience. The journey runs between Brisbane and Charleville and once underway, you soon leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind as you travel across the incredible Great Dividing Range. Very soon, you will travel through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs at relaxed pace bound for far western reaches and famous Charleville, the largest town in South West Queensland, and gateway to unlimited Outback experiences. Charleville is the perfect stepping stone to any number of different outback attractions. You can head off and visit a working property and after an exciting day of new discoveries, try a hot and steamy, yet thoroughly relaxing, artesian spa. Then, when night falls, view the stars with crystal clear clarity at the eyeopening Cosmos Centre. Let The Westlander take you there to experience life on the land, the wonders of the universe and the true colours of Queensland.
Book THE WESTLANDER here
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