Bathurst is preparing to celebrate 150 years since the railway arrived in the city, with a full weekend of steam-themed events planned across the June long weekend.
Running from 6–8 June, the Steam Weekend celebrations will feature steam train journeys aboard the 3526 steam locomotive, thanks to Transport Heritage NSW.
Visitors will have the opportunity to travel on the historic locomotive throughout the weekend, with steam train ticket holders also receiving a 20 per cent discount on admission to the Bathurst Rail Museum. Tickets available at www.thnsw.com.au/experiences/bathurst.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a mini re-enactment of the original 1876 railway opening will be held at Bathurst Railway Station on Saturday, 6 June, recognising the important role rail has played in the region’s development and history.
On Sunday, 7 June, the Bathurst Rail Markets will take place at the museum from 9 am to 2 pm, with market stalls, food and local products expected to attract visitors and locals alike.
A major feature of the weekend will be the Steam Social on Saturday evening, celebrating the strong social history connected to Bathurst’s rail community.
Held at the Bathurst Rail Museum from 6 pm to 9 pm, the event will include live music from the Mitchell Conservatorium’s CONnections Big Band, with guests encouraged to dress in swing-era fashion.
The Railway Institute building, which now houses the museum, was once an important community space for railway workers and their families, regularly hosting dances, social gatherings and community events throughout the early and mid-1900s.
Cocktail-style refreshments will be available during the evening, along with a bar operated by Reckless Brewing Co.
Steam Social tickets are $30 for general admission and $25 for museum members, with bookings available online https://events.humanitix.com/steam-social or at the museum.
For more information on all Steam Weekend events, visit www.museumsbathurst.com.au/150years.
Photos: Mitchell Conservatorium’s Connections Big Band will be providing the tunes for the Steam Social.
