Thirlmere Festival of Steam makes a welcome return this March

The village of Thirlmere will come alive with the welcome return of the much loved Thirlmere Festival of Steam this March.

Building on 30 years of proud history, the new look festival will take place over two days and feature more steam locomotives than ever before.

The festival is being delivered thanks to a new partnership between Wollondilly Shire Council and Transport Heritage NSW, operators of the NSW Rail Museum.

Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould said, “We’re proud to be able to host the state’s premier steam event here in Wollondilly.”

“After an extended period of challenges including bushfires and COVID restrictions, this will provide a boost for tourism and the local economy as well as bringing back one of the community’s favourite events,” he said.

Transport Heritage NSW CEO Andrew Moritz said, “We’ll have at least six historic engines in steam throughout the weekend at the NSW Rail Museum, including the recently overhauled, Legend of Steam Locomotive 3801.”

“In addition to steam train rides, visitors can enjoy cab visits, steam machinery, live steam models and more all weekend at the NSW Rail Museum.”

On Saturday 12 March, the NSW Rail Museum will be open with a variety of steam train rides, driver’s cab visits, a steam and vintage park, mini-train rides and more. A special family friendly event will also take place at Thirlmere Sportsground, with carnival rides and activities from 3.00pm.

On Sunday 13 March, the whole village will come to life with market stalls, a street parade including the NSW Police Band, live performances, as well as steam rides and other activities at the NSW Rail Museum.

For more information, including tickets, visit the Thirlmere Festival of Steam website. 

Media Contacts: Belinda (Council) 4677 9715 Rail Museum/Train Rides: David (THNSW) 0417 445 533