The journey will feature both steam and diesel locomotives from the 1950s.
Steamrail Victoria’s Echuca Overlander will depart Bendigo Station at 9:30am, powered by steam locomotive R711 ‘The City of Bendigo’ and vintage diesel locomotive S301 ‘Sir Thomas Mitchell’.
During the day’s stopover in Echuca, the locomotives will operate 55-minute return journeys towards Rochester, covering 21 kilometres along the Campaspe Plains to the 229km post from Melbourne for locals.
The R711, built in Glasgow in 1951 and first steamed on August 28, 1951, spent its life hauling passenger and freight trains along with the occasional special until it was finally withdrawn from service in August 1965.
“The vintage diesel locomotive is there for a bit more horsepower for the train, especially coming out of Melbourne,” Steamrail Victoria operations team member Noah Clancey said.
“Some carriages pulled by the train go back to around 1908, so they are well over 110 years old.
“There certainly is no technology, but there are a lot of creature comforts in the beautiful, comfortable old carriages.
“All of the carriages have opening windows, so if it is a hot day, you open the windows up to let the breeze in, otherwise, you can sit back and listen to the sound of the steam engine and see the world go by.”
The heritage-style compartment carriages feature wood veneer panelling, pressed tin ceilings, and opening windows.
Passengers can enjoy refreshments from the onboard bar and kiosk and purchase souvenirs during their journey.
The return service departs Echuca at 4.35pm, arriving in Bendigo at 6.10pm.
Tickets can be purchased at steamrail.com.au/tours
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