Train Journeys
All aboard the Mary Valley Rattler!
There’s no better way to explore the Mary Valley than aboard the Mary Valley Rattler. Our unique heritage steam train has been lovingly restored and will transport you on a trip back through time as the Rattler steams through the scenic Mary Valley hinterland. Find yourself rocking, rolling, and leaning into an abundance of gentle curves, as the iconic steam train travels through the picturesque small town of Dagun on the journey to the historical town of Amamoor. This is a train trip you would have never experienced before!
Passengers can design their own memorable experience on the Mary Valley Rattler. Choose your train journey from our fleet of heritage steam and diesel trains, on the Classic Rattler Run, Tasting Train or Ride with the Driver. Then, continue your romance of the railway, upgrading your ride with an experience package designed to suit the whole family – even your fur-friends are welcome to enjoy a magical day with us.
The Classic Rattler Run
Our Classic Rattler Run takes passengers on an exciting adventure on our C17 steam train from Gympie Station through the scenic Mary Valley and remarkable small town of Dagun, before arriving at the Amamoor Heritage Station.
Have a chat with the train drivers and the volunteer tour guides before you board the train. Then wait for the whistle and sit back and relax as you begin your nostalgic rail journey through one of the most beautiful parts of Queensland.
At the quaint community of Amamoor, a delightful historic town, you can watch the fascinating process of the turning of the engine on the turntable and explore the local stores before returning to Gympie Historic Station.
If you’re staying nearby and looking for things to do on the Sunshine Coast or experiences near Hervey Bay, then come along and take a tour of the Mary Valley aboard the historic Rattler! View our schedule and timetable here or book now.
Upgrade your classic ride
There are many ways to experience the Classic Rattler Run! Our passengers have the option to simply hop on board our standard carriage or upgrade to one of our other unique experience packages including the VIP Club Car, Ride & Dine, Pets on Board or the Lightup & Workshop Tour.
VIP Club Car
The ultimate VIP experience for those looking to enjoy the best of the Mary Valley Rattler. Upgrade to the VIP Club Car to ride the twists and turns of the hinterland in style.
VIP Booth
Enjoy a meet and greet with the train driver, priority preboarding and allocated booth for six people (shared booth or private booth for 4 people) seating on the Rattler 1038 Carriage before setting off on the 40km journey through the Mary Valley to arrive in the quaint town of Amamoor.
Pets on board
We know that your four-legged furry friends are a big part of your family, which is why we want your pup to come along for the ride! Our special pet carriage is configured for comfort and is available via upgrade.
Silver Bullet High Tea
The latest in the Mary Valley Rattler’s fleet of heritage trains is the Silver Bullet railmotor. These beautifully restored trains are living up to their name by offering a silver-service experience for passengers as they glide through Queensland’s picturesque Mary Valley.
Departing Gympie every Friday at 10am, the Silver Bullet High Tea Experience is a must-do adventure for people who love to combine a spectacular landscape with a gourmet high tea.
Start with a glass of bubbles, enjoy locally made sweet and savoury treats, and there’s unlimited tea and coffee flowing through the two-hour journey. Beers, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase along the way from the dedicated service team.
The Mary Valley offers some of the most luscious landscapes you will see, as you wind through hills and over bridges on your way to the historic village of Dagun.
This is an exceptionally atmospheric experience that captures the best of heritage Queensland, while indulging in some sweet and bubbly treats.
Footplate Friends Experience
Ride with the driver
Calling all train enthusiasts, history buffs and thrill seekers – enjoy some time in the world of a Mary Valley Rattler train driver! Upgrade to our Footplate Friends Experience and ride with the drivers through the scenic Mary Valley. This is a once in a lifetime experience that can’t be missed!
Enjoy one of the most unique Mary Valley activities on offer and become part of the train crew for the day and experience a historic steam experience in the best seat! Start your journey by joining the train crew for their morning briefing before the Rattler departs on its tour. Sit back and enjoy the views accompanied by morning tea and lunch with the crew, as well as a return trip with the steam train footplate cab ride.
You will even walk away with your very own Mary Valley Rattler high vis vest, cap, and pin. Plus, make your mark in history – all guests will be included in the Footplate Friends Gallery! Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!