- Queensland Rail began 160 years ago today, with the first section of rail opening between Ipswich to Grandchester on 31 July 1865.
- Two steam trains will greet rail fans at Roma Street with a community event at the station.
- First time customers have been able to board a steam train in Brisbane city since 2019.
The State's proud rail legacy will be on full display at Roma Street station today as Queensland Rail marks 160 years of continuous service - a milestone highlighting the importance of rail in shaping our State's growth and connectivity.
Two steam trains will return to the heart of Brisbane for the first time in six years, drawing crowds and rekindling memories of a golden era in Queensland's transport history.
The historic BB18 ¼ locomotives, the class known as "Bety", are part of the celebrations. One taking customers a on return journey to Pinkenba, while the other will remain open to the public to admire at Roma Street.
Since the first train journey between Ipswich and Bigges Camp (now Grandchester) in 1865, Queensland Rail has grown into a vital part of the State's identity - connecting communities, supporting economic growth, and helping generations of Queenslanders get where they need to go.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said Queensland Rail's anniversary was a celebration not just of the past, but of the future - a reminder of the important role rail continues to play across the State.
"For 160 years, Queensland Rail has kept communities connected, freight moving and our economy thriving," Minister Mickelberg said.
"From the first section of rail opening in 1865 with steam trains, to the construction of the rail line from Brisbane all the way to Cairns, the introduction of electric trains and now 50 cent fares becoming permanent, there's so much to celebrate as our State's rail turns 160.
"The future is exciting too with the Crisafulli Government delivering several major rail transport projects on the horizon – like the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail Project and The Wave on the Sunshine Coast - as we head towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said Queensland Rail had been the backbone of the State for 160 years.
"We're incredibly proud of our history, and we're just as excited about what's ahead," Ms Stapleton said.
"Queensland Rail continues to evolve to meet the needs of our growing State, and we are proud to connect communities.
"We know by how quickly this steam train event sold out that Queensland Rail holds a special place in the hearts of so many and we are so pleased that even those who missed out on a ticket were able to come to Roma Street station to celebrate the festivities with us.
"We have plenty more planned to celebrate turning 160 – including steam at this year's Ekka on People's Day and the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers diesel hauled heritage shuttles.
"Tickets for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers train trips are on sale today to celebrate our birthday. Make sure you take advantage of this picturesque journey to one of our prettiest stations – Spring Bluff."
