What’s Happening?
Queensland Rail has completed restoration works on the Ballandean rail siding, located on the Southern Darling Downs.
This project reinstates a vital turnaround point for trains, enabling heritage groups like the Southern Downs Steam Railway (SDSR) to extend services from Toowoomba, Warwick, and Stanthorpe to Ballandean.
Starting in February 2025, heritage rail services will resume, with bus connections to Wallangarra set to commence in July 2025.
Why It Matters
The restoration of the Ballandean siding is a major milestone for heritage rail tourism, the Granite Belt region, and volunteer-run railways.
It revives a key section of the historic Stanthorpe-to-Wallangarra line, which was heavily impacted by bushfires last year.
The project reconnects communities, promotes tourism, and preserves Queensland’s rich rail history.
Local Impact
Ballandean, renowned for its wineries and natural attractions, will welcome visitors arriving via heritage rail services.
The enhanced access is expected to boost tourism and revitalise the local economy.
Families and enthusiasts alike will enjoy affordable and nostalgic journeys through the picturesque Granite Belt region.
By the Numbers
- 135 sleepers and 68 turnout sleepers were replaced as part of the Ballandean siding restoration project.
- Heritage train tickets will be priced from $20 for adults and $10 for children, ensuring affordability for all.
- Bus connections from Ballandean to Wallangarra will cover the 15-minute journey, linking visitors to station tours and Girraween National Park by mid-2025.
Zoom In
Kelvin Hutchinson, Chairman of the Southern Downs Steam Railway’s ‘Downs Explorer’ Heritage Rail Experience, emphasised the significance of the project: “We are thrilled to see the reopening of the Ballandean siding – it unlocks endless possibilities for us to connect heritage rail enthusiasts with the heart of the Granite Belt once again. Ballandean is renowned for its stunning wineries and natural beauty, and welcoming visitors back to this charming village and the Granite Belt region is an absolute delight.”
Hutchinson highlighted the range of family-friendly heritage rail experiences and added, “Our first services to Ballandean from Stanthorpe and Warwick are scheduled for February 2025.”
Zoom Out
Scott Cornish, Queensland Rail’s Head of Regional, reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to heritage rail and community connectivity: “At Queensland Rail, we are all about connecting communities, and this also shows our commitment to supporting heritage travel. We know how important this Stanthorpe-to-Wallangarra line is for the community, and that’s why we have listened and carried out these works to enable services to run to Ballandean once again. Heritage rail holds a special place in our hearts, and Queensland Rail remains steadfast in our support for our volunteer-based heritage partners.”
What to Look For Next
The first steam train services from Warwick and Stanthorpe to Ballandean are set for February 2025, bringing rail enthusiasts and families to the region.
By July 2025, a bus connection will link Ballandean to Wallangarra, offering guided station tours, meals on the platform, and exploration of Girraween National Park.
Ticket available HERE.
