Queensland Rail is celebrating Cloncurry’s 150th year and rich rail history with an historic steam train journey across North West Queensland to the annual Cloncurry and District Show in June.
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Tickets are now on sale for the steam train service departing Townsville on Monday June 12 and arriving in Cloncurry for the show on Friday June 16, before the return journey to Brisbane.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the Cloncurry Show was one of the biggest on outback North West Queensland’s events calendar for Cloncurry’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
“There are 150 good reasons to visit North West Queensland in June and immerse yourself in an authentic, all stops to Cloncurry outback steam train experience,” Ms Trad said.
“The district show is an important economic and social event for Cloncurry’s celebrations, just as the arrival of the first steam train was 110 years ago this year.”
“QR’s steam train experience recognises the role rail played in the development of mining at Cloncurry and the region’s ability to move its mineral wealth to market quickly and efficiently.”
The return leg departs Cloncurry for Townsville on Tuesday June 20, and arrives at Brisbane’s Roma Street Station the following week.
Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell, said the show’s theme would centre on the town’s rich history, with rail playing a critical role.
“Rail lines spread across Cloncurry in various directions to service the rich mining and beef industries, cementing the railway’s importance in Cloncurry’s history,” Cr Campbell said.
“2017 is a year of celebrations for Cloncurry recognising the people and industries that have shaped Cloncurry to this day and the many years of rich history to come.
“The steam train is a great way to take a trip back in time and relive the experiences of years gone. I encourage everyone to come to Cloncurry and see the train visit in June.”
Member for Mount Isa, Robbie Katter said it was fitting that the iconic steam train would help celebrate Cloncurry’s rich transport history.
“Having the steam train in Cloncurry will give people an accurate reflection of the importance of Cloncurry’s rich history as a transport hub,” Mr Katter said.
“Cloncurry was the terminus when the trains first started in the Outback with the line to Mount Isa not being constructed until many years later.
“Organisers of the celebrations asked if I could assist in bringing the steam train to Cloncurry and I was delighted when the Transport Minister agreed.
“The steam train really paints the picture of the town’s and is a reminder of its long and proud association with the rail industry.
“I’m looking forward to celebrating with the great people of Cloncurry and hope they enjoy the steam train’s visit.”
For more information visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au or call 1800 753 150.
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
