‘Silver bullet’ boost to outback tourism attractions
Two 52-year-old ‘silver bullet’ railmotors that ferried passengers around Brisbane’s southside and south-east Queensland are set for a new lease of life with a new tourist attraction officially opened in Longreach.
After more than three decades in service before being retired, the 17 metre long, 12.5 litre AEC engine-powered rail motors will now ferry tourists around the stunning flood plains of the Thomson River as part of the new Outback Rail Adventure.
The $2.7 million tourism infrastructure project is estimated to attract an additional 6,000 visitors annually, generating $3 million for the visitor economy annually.
Supported by funding from the Queensland Government’s Outback Tourism Infrastructure Fund, the rail motors have been leased from Queensland Rail and will be the cornerstone of a series of new attractions bringing the romance of rail to the Outback.
New maintenance facilities and rail sidings to house the historic vehicles have been built in Longreach by Outback Aussie Tours, whose owners Alan and Sue Smith have been operating tours in the region for more than 35 years.
The rail tours will start with day trips between Longreach and Ilfracombe, Darr River including sunset and dinner options. Once established, there are future plans for a series of multi-day experiences.
Alan Smith from Outback Aussie Tours, which will operate the Outback Rail Adventure, said it was great to finally add another unique attraction to Outback Queensland’s tourism offerings.
“We have such a great number of attractions here in Longreach and surrounding localities for visitors to come and enjoy,” he said.
“In the first phase of the Outback Rail Adventure we will be offering the Great Darr River Run, the Silver Tail Sunset, the Historic Ilfracombe Excursion and the Old Bluey’s Flyer.
“All going well future phases will include trips to Barcaldine, Emerald and Winton.”
The $10 million Outback Tourism Infrastructure Fund was established in 2018 to grow tourism and create jobs in Outback Queensland. In total, 16 infrastructure projects were funded with a total value of $17.9 million.
The Fund has supported more than 230 jobs with the 16 projects forecast to attract an additional 110,850 visitors annually, generating over $100 million in overnight visitor expenditure each year.
The Outback Rail Adventure will be one of 29 new experiences on offer this year across Outback Queensland with new attractions, new events and revamped accommodation.