Private Charters
Experience the Magic of Rail Travel, Your Way.
Chartering a train with DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about stepping back in time and creating your own unforgettable rail adventure. Whether you’re planning a group tour, club outing, corporate retreat, or a special celebration, we’ll tailor the journey entirely to you.
From the timetable and route to the catering and stops, everything is custom-designed. You choose the destination, pace, and theme and we bring your dream journey to life through Southern Queensland’s stunning countryside.
Why Charter with DownsSteam?
A Private Train, All to Yourselves
A chartered train means exclusive access, your group has the entire train! No set schedules, no crowded carriages just your own heritage rail experience, at your own pace.
Past charters have included:
- Tour operators and travel groups (local and international)
- Probus, seniors, and enthusiast clubs
- School and sporting groups
- Corporate and private events
Add themed journeys, live entertainment, local tours, or special event tie-ins. It’s your itinerary, we make it happen.
Authentic Heritage Fleet
Our lovingly restored trains offer old-world charm with modern comfort:
- Vintage Rail Motor – Seats up to 60 passengers (ideal for smaller groups or short trips)
- Classic Steam Train – Seats up to 172 passengers (about 150 for maximum comfort)
We even bring our own steps and platform gear, so you can disembark at quaint country stops, no stations required!
Taste the Country & Support Local Communities
We partner with regional towns along the route to provide off-train catering from homemade morning teas to hearty pub lunches. You’ll enjoy genuine country hospitality while supporting local businesses and sampling fresh regional produce.
Charters can also include a visit to the DownsSteam Museum in Drayton (Toowoomba) for a guided tour and heritage experience.
Sample Charter Experiences
Toowoomba to Clifton Pub Lunch (Half Day)
Duration: 5–6 hours (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
A relaxed country outing ideal for clubs or social groups.
- Morning tea on board
- Pub lunch at Clifton Arms Hotel or O’Shanley’s Irish Hotel
- Free time to explore Clifton’s museum and local shops
- Return scenic journey to Toowoomba
Group Size: Up to 60 (railmotor) or 172 (steam)
Custom Options: Add morning tea, local guide, or museum visit.
Stanthorpe Wine & Food Tour (2 Days, 1 Night)
A perfect escape into the Granite Belt’s cool-climate wine country.
- Travel from Toowoomba to Stanthorpe via Warwick
- Winery tastings, art galleries, and gourmet local dining
- Overnight stay in Stanthorpe
- Optional visits to cheese makers or orchards before return
Tip: Visit in March for the Apple & Grape Harvest Festival or in July for Snowflakes in Stanthorpe!
Toowoomba to Goondiwindi (3 Days)
An extended adventure combining heritage rail, silo art, and country hospitality.
- Stops at Clifton, Warwick, and Yelarbon’s famous silo murals
- Overnight stays in Warwick and Goondiwindi
- Optional Cotton Farm tour or town walks
- Return via scenic Southern Downs
Customise your itinerary, extend your trip, add local events, or create a themed journey!
Destinations You Can Explore
From rolling farmlands to wine country and outback plains, our charter routes include:
- Toowoomba & Drayton: Home of DownsSteam Museum
- Warwick: Historic sandstone city & famous Rodeo
- Stanthorpe & Ballandean: Wineries, food, and national parks
- Inglewood & Yelarbon: Olive farms and stunning silo art
- Goondiwindi: Border town charm & “Gourmet in Gundy” festival
- Thallon: Outback town with breathtaking mural silos
Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day adventure, every DownsSteam charter immerses you in Southern Queensland’s landscapes, history, and hospitality.
Sit Back and Enjoy the Journey
On the day, we handle everything from schedules and safety to catering and commentary. You simply climb aboard, relax, and enjoy your private rail adventure.
Whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or just reminiscing about the golden age of rail, a DownsSteam charter is a journey you’ll never forget.
Ready to Start Planning?
Booking & Pricing
How to Book
Fill out our Charter Enquiry Form or call us today to discuss your perfect heritage train experience.
Provide details: dates, group size, destinations, and any special requests.
Our team will craft a tailored itinerary and quote for your group.
Pricing Guide
Every charter is bespoke; costs vary depending on distance, train type, and duration.
Short 1.5 - 2 hour charters: From around $1,000 (ideal for school or museum tours)
Full-day or multi-day tours: Custom quoted based on inclusions and route
Charters become very cost-effective for larger groups, and we’ll help tailor your trip to suit your budget.
Please note: bookings should be made at least two months in advance, especially for steam train charters.
