Cultural Attractions of Australia (CAOA), a collection of the nation’s most iconic cultural experiences, is delighted to announce the West Coast Wilderness Railway as the newest member of its distinguished collective.
Set against Tasmania’s rugged wilderness backdrop, the West Coast Wilderness Railway brings to life the stories of the region’s pioneering past, its enduring communities, and the landscapes that have shaped them. Operating from Queenstown and Strahan, the heritage railway follows the original 1890s line once used to transport copper to the coast and is one of the few places in the world where the unique Abt rack-and-pinion system still operates.
They have created three immersive experiences, ranging from 4.5-hour journeys through ancient rainforest to a three-day hosted adventure. Highlights include Beyond the Line, a premium steam journey combining the Rinadeena Rack & Rainforest trip with a progressive food service and guided storytelling, plus exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the Carswell Park workshops. At the other end of the spectrum, Live Like the Railway GM places guests in the shoes of the General Manager of the Railway over three days, offering a rare and personal insight into the running of this remarkable heritage operation. Other itineraries invite guests to pan for gold at Lynchford Station, traverse steep climbs on the Abt rack-and-pinion system, and hear first-hand the tales of boom-and-bust industry that shaped Tasmania’s West Coast.
Part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia program, CAOA brings together 18 of the nation’s landmark cultural attractions. From galleries and museums to historic sites and performing arts, the collective showcases the diverse stories that define Australia’s identity. Each member offers curated, behind-the-scenes experiences that add layers to travellers’ itineraries, connecting them with the people, histories, and the stories at the heart of these remarkable places.
Tourism Australia welcomed the announcement, noting its alignment with current travel trends. “The addition of the West Coast Wilderness Railway comes at a time when inbound visitors are increasingly seeking cultural experiences, with travel trends showing a strong preference for diverse and authentic encounters,” said Sally Cope Executive General Manager Industry, Tourism Australia. “The Railway offers travellers an unforgettable way to experience both Australia’s heritage and natural beauty and is a powerful example of how Cultural Attractions of Australia continues to showcase the very best of our country’s cultural stories to the world.”
Ian Robertson, General Manager of West Coast Wilderness Railway, said the Railway’s role was to honour local stories and traditions. “The West Coast Wilderness Railway winds through a land rich with history, heart, and community. Each journey honours the knowledge of local people, the strength of regional traditions, and the living culture shaped by generations. As part of Cultural Attractions of Australia, we invite travellers to engage with stories grounded in place, shared with pride, and carried forward by those who call this wilderness home.”
Cultural Attractions of Australia Executive Officer, Annabel Sullivan, added that the Railway is an especially meaningful addition for Tasmania. “We are delighted to welcome the West Coast Wilderness Railway to our collective. Their immersive journeys bring Tasmania’s pioneering stories and living culture to life in ways that are both authentic and deeply engaging. As travellers increasingly seek out experiences that connect them with place and community, the Railway offers a powerful addition to Cultural Attractions of Australia, further strengthening our Tasmanian representation alongside Mona and Port Arthur.”
With the Railway’s inclusion, CAOA now unites 18 members across Australia, offering travellers curated access to the nation’s most compelling cultural, historic, and artistic experiences.
