About Us

Who is DownsSteam?

DownsSteam is a community-based, solely volunteer-run organisation dedicated to establishing a tourist railway for the Darling Downs region. Founded to preserve and actively restore the last remaining steam locomotive built at the historic Toowoomba Foundry Company, C16-106 Southern Cross Works No. 28, this locomotive was constructed around 1914.

The DownsSteam Dream

DownsSteam plans to operate regular passenger services that become part of an integrated tourism transport trail across the Darling Downs. Our guests will experience fine food excursions, sampling the best our region has to offer from Warwick and Stanthorpe. Shorter trips to Nobby and Pittsworth help celebrate our regions rich heritage and growth across the Darling Downs.

A Little Bit of History

John Peel, a local train enthusiast and Special Project Officer with the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce Inc, was aware that steam locomotive 106, built by the Toowoomba Foundry and housed at the Ipswich railway workshop, was awaiting restoration. 

In July 2000, the Chamber held a meeting with Queensland Rail (Former) CEO Mr. Vince O’Rourke to discuss the development of Federation Park at the Toowoomba Railway Station. This project aimed to enhance Toowoomba’s Heritage Precinct after a multi-million dollar restoration of the railway station. During these talks, Mr. O’Rourke agreed to return locomotive 106 to Toowoomba for restoration.

Further investigations revealed four carriages, belonging to the Australian Railways Historical Society, in a state that could be restored. Subsequently, discussions with (Former) Mayor Di Thorley and (Former) Councillors Ramia and Shelton led to a commitment from the Toowoomba City Council (now Toowoomba Regional Council) to assist. The Australian Historical Rail Society also committed their support to this project.

To gather support from the known dedicated band of steam train lovers, a public meeting was held. Following this, a committee was formed to undertake this massive project. This committee has now been formalised as a Company Limited by Guarantee.

The Journey So Far

DownsSteam’s Achievements

Since forming in 2001, DownsSteam has worked steadfastly to establish an active rail precinct on the former Drayton sidings.  We have been able to acquire a large rolling stock fleet including "Pride of Toowoomba" a steam locomotive C16 No. 106; "Brisbane Surburban" a stainless steel branchline diesel locomotive railmotor, and "Sunlander" air-conditioned coaches.