Historic steam locomotives and machinery of all shapes and sizes will come to life this weekend at the NSW Rail Museum during the award-winning Thirlmere Festival of Steam.
The annual Festival is expected to attract more than 25,000 people to the Wollondilly Shire across over the weekend of 16 and 17 May, celebrating the sights, sounds and spectacle of steam in all its forms.
From heritage steam train rides and vintage industrial machinery to live blacksmith demonstrations by Eveleigh Works, the event will also feature a colourful street parade and an operational steam truck presented by the Powerhouse Museum.
Transport Heritage NSW CEO Andrew Moritz says the event is a remarkable showcase of heritage steam technology from across New South Wales.
"The historic locomotives and engines featured at the festival showcase a strong part of our state's engineering history from the late 18th century through to the 1950s," Andrew said.
"This year, we're especially excited to showcase locomotive 3265 on steam train rides, following its full overhaul completed in April through our partnership with the Powerhouse Museum."
Now in its 37th year, the Thirlmere Festival of Steam is a celebration of steam technology that powered New South Wales for over a century. The event was recognised as Best Visitor Economy Event at the inaugural Western Sydney Tourism Awards last year.
On Saturday 16 May, the NSW Rail Museum will offer a full day of family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can enjoy steam train rides, step inside the driver's cab of a steam locomotive, watch the action from atop a Ferris wheel, explore the steam and vintage park, and take a spin on the mini‑train.
At Thirlmere Sportsground, the Family Carnival will add even more colour to the day, with classic carnival rides and activities for all ages, with a sensory-friendly session from 10am-12pm.
The festivities continue into Saturday night with the rare spectacle of three steam locomotives leading a single train on two special evening runs. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display over Thirlmere Sportsground at 8pm.
On Sunday 17 May, the entire village will make way for market stalls, the annual street parade, live entertainment, and more steam train rides and activities at the NSW Rail Museum.
Tickets are now on sale at www.thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com.au.
– Ends –
Tickets available
