DownsSteam Toowoomba

DownsSteam is a volunteer-driven, community-led organisation proudly operating a tourist railway delivering unique heritage rail experiences across the Darling Downs.  

Founded to preserve and actively restore the last remaining steam locomotive built at the historic Toowoomba Foundry Company, C16-106 Southern Cross Works No. 28, this locomotive was constructed around 1914.

DownsSteam operates regular passenger services as part of an integrated tourism transport trail across the Darling Downs. Our services include family-friendly steam shuttle trips from Toowoomba Railway Station to our heritage Drayton Museum precinct, as well as steam shuttles between Drayton and Wyreema.

In addition to these short journeys, we offer popular “pub lunch” rail experiences to local towns including Clifton, Pittsworth, Brookstead and Cambooya. More recently, we have expanded our range to include both day and overnight trips to the Stanthorpe region, featuring visits to local wineries and specially curated dining experiences.

John Peel, a local train enthusiast was aware that steam locomotive 106, built by the Toowoomba Foundry and housed at the Ipswich railway workshop, was awaiting restoration. 

In July 2000, the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce held a meeting with Queensland Rail to discuss the development of Federation Park at the Toowoomba Railway Station. During these talks it was agreed to return locomotive 106 to Toowoomba for restoration.

Four more restorable carriages belonging to the Australian Railways Historical Society were found and a commitment of support from the Toowoomba Regional Council and Australian Historical Rail Society helped the project progress.

A public meeting was held to gather support from the known dedicated band of steam train lovers, a committee was formed to undertake this massive project, and DownsSteam was born!

Since forming in 2001, DownsSteam has worked steadfastly to establish an active rail precinct on the former Drayton sidings.  We have been able to acquire a large rolling stock fleet including steam locomotives  "Pride of Toowoomba" C16 No. 106 and "Peter Ford"  BB18¼ No.1037, "The Commissioner" a stainless steel branch-line diesel locomotive railmotor, and "Sunlander" air-conditioned coaches.

Recent additions to our rolling stock include 1086, which is actively under restoration and DH41, which will be restored as a recovery locomotive.