RailFest 2024

About RailFest 2024

Pichi Richi Railway is firing-up their operating fleet to display in and around Quorn. They’ll also run short trips for passengers to experience heritage rail travel and steam power, and also offer include a tour behind the scenes to visit their locomotive workshop.

In July 1974, they ran their first train between Quorn and Summit on the original narrow-gauge railway line, completed in 1879 through Pichi Richi Pass. This first section of Port Augusta and Government Gums Railway later became the Ghan Railway to Alice Springs. A new standard gauge railway line was built to the west of the Flinders Ranges. In the 1950’s, and authorities planned to pull up the line, bridges and demolish the drystone walls.
In 1973 the Society was established, conserved these valuable heritage assets and then acquired locomotives and rolling-stock and began running steam-powered trains.

Passengers on the railway, are a key tourist destination for visitors who enjoy magnificent scenery, local produce and the unique atmosphere of the town and surrounding area.
All the Society’s locomotives, rolling stock, catering, customer service, management, marketing, museum, restoration, regulatory compliance departments are managed by volunteers.
In 2023 they won silver at the SA Tourism Awards – Tourist Attraction and were recognised for their contribution to heritage railway and regional tourism.
They are accredited by the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR).