Step into a timeless world of wonder with Australia’s favourite steam train, Puffing Billy, located in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and only one-hour east of Melbourne. Built in 1900 to serve the local communities that lived in the hills, carrying anything from passengers to timber, livestock, potatoes and plants, the Railway is now a major tourist attraction that invites visitors to come and experience a century old tradition every day of the year, except Christmas Day, thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 600 volunteers. Take in the magic of steam train travel from the moment you arrive, with the sight of the historic locomotives being prepared for departure at the station, the smell of steam billowing out of the vessel’s chimney and the evocative sound of the train’s whistle. Before long, our friendly conductors will help you on board the open-sided carriages for a serene ride over the hills, across the iconic timber trestle bridges, down the valley and into the forest on the original mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook.