Two historic steam trains will race through the suburbs as part of the 2025 Transport Heritage Expo this October long weekend (4-6 October 2025).
The Great Train Race will see 124-year-old steam locomotive 3001 go head-to-head against the 108-year-old heritage express locomotive 3526, departing from Central Station on Saturday 4 October.
The two trains will then compete along the T4 Illawarra Line, with the victor to be declared at Hurstville, before the trains return passengers back to Central Station.
“There are not many places in the world you can operate and experience two historic steam trains race through the heart of a major city,” said THNSW CEO, Andrew Moritz.
“We’re grateful for the ongoing support of the NSW Government in working with us to once again showcase our state’s rich transport history through this award-winning annual event!”
The race forms one of many attractions set to appear at this year’s Transport Heritage Expo, including:
- Heritage Train Rides: Enjoy a 1-hour steam train ride to Hurstville and back, climb aboard a charming 1960s vintage railcar, tour the Botany freight line, or ride through the underground and across the Harbour Bridge on a 1970s silver electric train to Lavender Bay.
- Vintage Bus Rides: Take a 30-minute round trip around Sydney’s CBD aboard a beautifully restored double-decker bus from the Sydney Bus Museum.
- Harbour Steam Cruises: Set sail on a 45-minute harbour cruise aboard the Waratah or Lady Hopetoun, two 120-year-old Sydney Harbour veterans.
- Central Clock Tower and Mortuary Station Tours: Climb the iconic Central Station Clock Tower or explore beautiful Mortuary Station—but act fast, tickets for these experiences are extremely limited.
- 1960s Dining Car Experience: Enjoy a 1-hour tea sitting aboard the Southern Aurora, featuring high tea service by the Hydro Majestic Hotel.
- Driver’s Cab Visits and Heritage Displays: Explore a collection of heritage carriages and locomotives on display, or relax and enjoy the live atmosphere as heritage trains arrive and depart Central Station throughout the weekend.
Tickets for this year’s Transport Heritage Expo go on sale this Friday 29 August at www.transportheritageexpo.com
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Tickets are available for media and must be confirmed prior to joining the train.
Content: Key images and vision available here.
Contact details:
DAVID BENNETT
Head of Engagement
[email protected]
0417 44 55 33
HARRY STRANGER
Communications Officer
[email protected]
0413 424 652
