In 2024, Journey Beyond announced that Vintage Rail Journeys was joining its portfolio of Australia’s iconic travel experiences. This acquisition has now been realised with Vintage Rail Journeys’ inaugural departure under Journey Beyond’s ownership.
Vintage Rail Journey’s 2025 season begins with the Riverina Rail tour, a train journey that travels through the picturesque surrounds of regional south west New South Wales. The five-day tour heads south from Sydney into the heart of Australia’s ‘food bowl’.
The red carpet was rolled out to welcome the excited guests who were treated to a glass of sparkling and delectable canapes, all while enjoying the vibrant sounds of live music before they departed Sydney Central Railway Station on Easter Monday 21 April.
David Donald, Executive General Manager of Rail at Journey Beyond expressed his enthusiasm, “We’re thrilled to invite guests to join us aboard for an unforgettable experience. Vintage Rail Journeys first adventure for 2025 explores vibrant regional New South Wales. It’s the most scenic way to experience the region. Guests for the first time will now enjoy all-inclusive meals and beverages in our dining carriage, lovingly crafted by our onboard chef with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a culinary journey whilst seeing the best of NSW’s scenery traveling primarily during daylight hours.“
The Riverina Rail tour adventure departs from Sydney and travels to Bowral, Junee, Coolamon, Murrami, Whitton, Griffith, Temora, Bundawarrah, Orange and the Blue Mountains before returning to Sydney. ”Off Train Experiences are a highlight and include a unique range of curated tours and experiences that tell stories and showcase the history, people and culture unique to the region.” David Donald said.
“We appreciate the support local communities show Vintage Rail Journeys guests and recognise the integral role the train plays in contributing to local tourism,” Donald added.
Vintage Rail Journeys represents a blend of nostalgia, history, exploration, and connection with regional Australia, adding a further rich layer to Journey Beyond’s portfolio of iconic Australian experiences. For the first time, guests aboard Vintage Rail will experience an all-inclusive journey with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and all beverages including beer, wine, and spirits included in the fare.
Riverina Rail Tour heads south from Sydney into the heart of Australia’s ‘food bowl’. Guests will receive a warm welcome from the communities of the Riverina, and learn about the produce grown, and the challenges and innovations from the region. It’s a real adventure travelling on rail lines which don’t have scheduled passenger services.
Riverina Rail Tour Inclusions
· 4 nights aboard Vintage Rail Journeys, departing and returning to Sydney encompassing Bowral, Junee, Coolamon, Murrami, Whitton, Griffith, Temora, Bundawarrah, Orange and the Blue Mountains
· 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Off Train Experiences include:
· Retford Park National Trust or Fairground Follies a Antique Mechanical Music Museum in Bowral
· Tour and lunch at a Coolaman artisan cheese maker
· From farm to fork and vine to wine, meet a collection of some of the best producers in the Riverina
· Stop at Mt Victoria, for an adventure on the Zig Zag Railway
Riverina Rail Tour 2025 season is now sold out, departure dates are still available for North Coast Rail Tour taking in the beautiful Hastings River in Port Macquarie, the breathtaking hinterland rainforest and eclectic community of the North Rivers region and uncrowded surf beaches of the Macleay Valley Coast.
Book your 2026 Vintage Rail Journey today, call 1300 421 422, visit www.vintagerailjourneys.com.au
