Also known as the ‘Tin Hare’, this legendary rail motor is one of the last great characters of the rail world. From wetlands and grasslands to arid Savannah territory, the Gulflander travels through countryside that most people will never see. This nostalgic rail journey is the perfect way to discover an area steeped in pioneering history and heritage. Normanton was the port for the Croydon Gold Rush and is a terminus of the Normanton Railway Station which features preserved Victorian architecture. Just 30 kilometres south west of Normanton is camp 119, Burke and Wills' most northerly camp. Croydon is a small town with a big history which started with the discovery of gold in 1885. With Barramundi fishing year round, Lake Belmore is located just four kilometres from Croydon. As the Gulflander only carries a small number of passengers, you will experience a friendly atmosphere which adds to the charm. Enjoy morning tea en route as the on board accredited Savannah Guides keep you entertained with trivia, species identification, amusing stories and colourful characters.
Affectionately said to go from ‘nowhere to nowhere’, the Heritage Listed Normanton to Croydon line was never connected to the state rail network and remains the only line in Queensland still measured in miles.
The Normanton to Croydon line was laid in a fashion not found anywhere else in the world. With an innovative sleeper design, seasonal flood waters flow over the line to lessen flood damage. Testament to the ingenuity of this design is that today much of the line is still the original rail and sleepers laid between 1888 and 1891.
The drivers and onboard staff of the Gulflander are accredited Savannah Guides. During your journey you will learn about the diverse Gulf landscape and its rich past. Fascinating trivia, species identification, amusing stories and colourful characters, staff aboard the Gulflander will keep you entertained throughout.
As a working tribute to the Gulf of Carpentaria’s early pioneers, the Gulflander is a once in a lifetime experience.
