Hunter Valley Steamfest 2011

The  Hunter Valley Steamfest is Australia’s premier festival of steam and will be held on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 April. It is held in the Maitland Railway Station precinct, in Maitland, NSW, Australia. Steamfest 2011 will feature all of the previous years favourite activities with a few new surprises.

Steam engines 3642, 3265 & 3526 will be making a return in 2011, offering steam train rides as in the days gone by.. An expanded Steanfest Rally Ground near Maitland Station on the New England Highway will feature traction and static engine displays, Mini train rides, vintage machinery and Interpretive Tours. Rally ground entry is Adults $2.00 and Children (under 16) are Free.

The Powerhouse Museum marquee will feature a Hornby Model display, Cogs the Robot and a speakers program. Kids Adventureland will be the spot for face painting, coal shoveling and a range of children’s activities.

Around the town there will be a host of attractions to see. The Our Town Model Display will feature models and displays from many different fields such as railways, ships & tugs, cars, military vehicles, aircraft, houses and much more. There will also be the Steamfest Show 'n' Shine car display,  Richmond Vale Railway Museum exhibitions and rides, guided walking tours, Morpeth Fiery Food Festival, and the Outdoor Cinema.

The Steamfest markets featuring over 120 stalls, will sell everything from arts and crafts to fresh local produce and everything in-between. There’s no need to bring lunch as the food court will cater for all tastes.

In 1983 the last coal operating steam haulage freight service was closed on the South Maitland Railway Line, effectively ending a century old institution.  In response to this closure, in 1986 the first Hunter Valley Steamfest was held.

Steam had played an integral part in the development of the Hunter Valley, and it was felt that the tradition of steam should be kept alive for future generations through this event.  The first Steamfest was organised by a dedicated group of community volunteers whose vision was that Steamfest would become an annual fixture in the City’s calendar. 25 years later I think they can safely say their vision was realised.

For more information see the website: 
http://www.steamfest.com.au/