10 August 2009
GREAT RAILWAY JOURNEYS OF AUSTRALIA STEAMS INTO MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND
A new exhibition exploring the development of Australia's rail network and some of the most famous railway journeys in the country is on display at the Museum of Tropical Queensland in Townsville.
Great Railway Journeys of Australia, developed and presented by The Workshops Rail Museum, a campus of the Queensland Museum, draws on the Museum's collection of objects, photographs, posters, art and documents and involved a number of loans from other institutions.
Director of the Museum of Tropical Queensland Peter McLeod said since the introduction of the railways in Australia over 150 years ago, train travel has played an important role in Australian cultural life.
"Great Railway Journeys of Australia is presented in two parts - 'Connecting the Cities and States' and 'Great Passenger Journeys of Australia' - both significant components of the rail in Australia story," Mr McLeod said.
"While the first section explores the development of the bourgeoning railway industry in Australia, the second section delves into the spectacular results of the back breaking work of our pioneering forefathers."
The exhibition also details and presents the stories of world famous passenger journeys which Australia is proud to call its own, from the Old and New Ghans to the Trans Australia Railway and the Indian Pacific.
Tourists could now immerse themselves in Australia's nature - from lush tropical rainforests to the harsh conditions in the nation's outback - all in air conditioned comfort from their private cabin, with hot and cold running water and showers plus three course meals served in the Dining Car by the on board catering staff.
Director of The Workshops Rail Museum Andrew Moritz said the exhibition promotes life-long learning for people of all ages with children's interactive elements that guide visitors through the various aspects of the exhibition.
"Passenger journeys played an integral role in the development of the tourism industry in Queensland," Mr Moritz said.
"The advent of the 'Lander' trains - Inlander, Midlander and Westlander - in the 1950s allowed tourists to experience the diverse beauty and character of the State like never before.
"Current day passengers are still treated to a unique travel experience by rail in Queensland on services such as Queenslander Class on the Sunlander, Tilt Train and Spirit of the Outback."
The exhibition is supported by Visions of Australia, an Australian Government Program supporting touring exhibitions by providing funding assistance for the development and touring of cultural material across Australia.
The national tour of Great Railway Journeys of Australia is made possible by QR and Great Southern Railway.
For further information and ticket prices, call (07) 4726 0600 or visit www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au.
Entry into the Museum of Tropical Queensland is free for residents of local councils through the Council Community Pass, generously supported by Townsville, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Hinchinbrook councils.
The Museum of Tropical Queensland, a campus of Queensland Museum, is open from 9.30am to 5pm daily. Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and the morning of Anzac Day.
