Sunday 24 March 2013

Hunter Valley Steamfest 2013

The Maitland Toyota Hunter Valley Steamfest is Australia's premier festival of steam. The 28th Annual Steamfest will take place at the Maitland Railway Station precinct over the 13th & 14th April 2013.

Highlights of this magnificent steam filled weekend include, the ever so popular Great Train Race on Sunday morning, the Grand Parade on the Rally Ground covering the evolution of transport through time and the Steamfest Bazaar with over 100 stalls.

Specialty train excursions in 2013 include the Barrington Bullet, Kids Party Train and following the success of 2012, the Stroud Road excursion will ensure residents from Dungog and surrounds can also enjoy the excitement of Steamfest. 

Steamfest History


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.  27 years later it is thought that it can be safely said their vision was realised.

CityRail Hunter has a long history of involvement with Maitland's Hunter Valley Steamfest. Each year City Rail, RailCorp and their staff proudly support the event. Without this assistance, it would not be possible for thousands of people to travel to and from the Maitland area and fully experience their train journey using a mix of modern electric & diesel trains as well as the heritage trains of yesteryear.

Where

The excitement of Hunter Valley Steamfest all will happen around the Maitland Railway Station precinct which is located in Church St and Railway St Maitland.

Getting to Steamfest

By Train

Don’t want the hassle of finding a parking space? You don’t have to. CityRail’s Hunter line trains will be operating a special Steamfest weekend timetable which includes half hourly services, so you’ll be able to get off right in the heart of where the action is at Maitland Station.

CountryLink also provides daily services to Maitland from Sydney and regional NSW. A modern fleet offer a choice of economy or first class seating and a wide range of facilities including air-conditioning, ergonomically designed seating and a buffet serving hot and cold meals, snacks and drinks. Seats from some destinations can only be booked a day prior. For further information, phone 132232 or visit www.countrylink.info

By Car

If you are unable to take advantage of public transport and will be driving to Steamfest we recommend you park in Maitland Park or in one of the free carparks in Ken Tubman Dr.


More Information
Website - http://www.steamfest.com.au/

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