Future of Savannahlander Tourist Train Uncertain Amid Mounting Repair Costs
The operator of Queensland’s iconic outback tourist train, the Savannahlander, says its survival hinges on the state government’s willingness to fund extensive repairs to multiple damaged rail bridges.
The Savannahlander carries tourists on a four-day return journey from Cairns through the tropical rainforest and into the Gulf Savannah, visiting historic mining towns like Einasleigh and Forsayth, about 250 kilometres inland. Along the way, passengers enjoy attractions such as Chillagoe caves, Undara lava tubes, and Cobbold Gorge, with overnight stays in local accommodations.
However, extensive flood and bushfire damage over the past three years has forced the first and last sections of the rail line to close, leaving passengers to travel parts of the route by road.
Crucial for Tourism and Small Towns
Simon Terry, owner of Cobbold Gorge and the Goldfields Hotel in Forsayth, described the Savannahlander as one of Australia’s most iconic rail experiences, noting that Forsayth hasn’t seen a train arrival since late 2023 when an aging wooden bridge was destroyed.
“The train has always been a vital support for tourism in the area, bringing much-needed income to small towns. To lose it from the itinerary is devastating,” Mr. Terry said.
Hundreds of Millions Needed for Repairs
Michael Lee, operations manager for Cairns Kuranda Steam, which runs the Savannahlander, is seeking a 10-year commitment from Queensland Rail to restore the 425-kilometre line. While no final funding decision has been made, Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg estimates the total repair cost at $152 million, while Queensland Rail warns it could be as high as $300 million over the decade.
“I’d like to see independent assessments of the repair costs, but it’s safe to say it’s well over $100 million for the full restoration,” Mr. Lee said.
Damage to the section between Kuranda and Koah has already forced the Savannahlander to begin its trips from Mareeba, instead of Cairns. The shift has also required setting up a temporary and more expensive maintenance facility at Mount Surprise.
The train’s operating contract is due for renewal at the end of this year, and negotiations are ongoing between Cairns Kuranda Steam and Queensland Rail.
“I’m willing to continue operating for another year even if we remain cut off from Cairns,” Mr. Lee said. “But long-term, this arrangement isn’t sustainable for ongoing rail motor maintenance.”
Communities in Limbo
Driver Wil Kemp said the situation leaves communities and staff in a difficult position.
“It might not make financial sense on paper, but when you see how much this train means to the small towns it serves, it starts to make sense,” he said.
Simon Terry added that without full access to the line, developing comprehensive tourism packages becomes far more difficult. Mr. Lee emphasized that repairing the Copperfield River bridge should be prioritized, as this would allow the train to reach within 15 minutes of Forsayth, opening up the scenic Newcastle Range.
Tourism numbers have dipped slightly due to the partial closures, with coaches filling in for the missing sections. However, some tourists have still praised the experience despite the disruptions.
Queensland Rail’s Ongoing Investment
The Savannahlander has been operating for 30 years and remains the only train servicing the Kuranda-to-Forsayth route.
Queensland Rail says it continues to support the service, investing $4.5 million annually to maintain the Mareeba-to-Forsayth section.
“Queensland Rail spends millions every year to maintain the line,” said regional network head Scott Cornish.
