- Dozens of Mater Little Miracles families and train enthusiasts have taken a magical train journey through Brisbane's suburbs onboard the 'Santa Steam Express.'
- The event has raised more than $20,000 for Mater Little Miracles to improve outcomes for Queensland's most premature and seriously ill babies.
- The three heritage journeys are all part of celebrations for Queensland Rail's 160th birthday.
Christmas is on the right track with more than $20,000 raised for charity today thanks to Queensland Rail's epic steam train adventure the 'Santa Steam Express', and a very generous donation by Downer Group.
Hundreds of train lovers packed Roma Street station to witness the arrival of Santa and his elves onboard a heritage steam locomotive - known affectionately as 'Bety' - as well as festive entertainment.
Those who were lucky enough to get a ticket for the sold-out event joined in the onboard celebrations as 'Bety' embarked on three trips throughout the day, transporting 900 people in total on a magical and scenic journey from Roma Street station throughout Brisbane's suburbs.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to Mater Little Miracles, part of the Mater Foundation, to deliver joy and hope to the families of babies cared for at Mater Mothers' Hospital Neonatal Critical Care Unit (NCCU) in South Brisbane.
'Snow' much fun was also had by Mater Little Miracles families who were invited onboard as special guests for the event.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said they were so pleased to raise more than $20,000 for the well-deserving charity.
"We want to thank Downer Group - who has generously donated $10,000 to the very important cause benefiting premature and sick babies", Ms Stapleton said.
"That incredible donation coupled with ticket sales from the event means we are collectively able to donate more than $20,000 in total to Mater Little Miracles.
"Queensland Rail is all about supporting and connecting the communities in which we operate and we are so pleased to be able to help.
"This Christmas-themed event has wrapped up a year of 160th birthday celebrations for Queensland Rail, which has included steam train trips for our birthday in July and at this year's Ekka."
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said the partnership between Queensland Rail and Mater Little Miracles was a very special one.
"Funds raised will support the purchase of a state-of-the-art ventilation system which gently supports the breathing of the very smallest babies in Mater's NCCU," Mr Thomas said.
"We couldn't think of a better Christmas gift to support our NCCU babies and families, so thank you to everyone who got on board this year's 'Santa Steam Express'!"
Downer Group's Chief Operating Officer for Rail Stephen Kakavas said that they were delighted to be able to help such a worthy cause.
"Downer has a long history of supporting the communities in which we work," Mr Kakavas said.
"We've been manufacturing trains in Queensland for more than 150 years and are proud to team up with Queensland Rail to make such a significant difference to the lives of some of its youngest citizens."
