When a steam train visits Warrnambool for the first time in 14 years on Saturday, it may be the first of many visits.
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Organiser Eddie White said the trip was so popular he could have probably sold twice as many tickets. “I said that I was going to organise one and one only, I think I’ll do it again,” he said.
The R711 pulling 1950s-era Spirit of Progress carriages will bring 220 passengers.
It will be put on the turntable soon after it arrives about 1.25pm and will depart at 6.55pm.
A vintage car display and BBQ will be held in the car park overlooking the turntable from 1pm-6pm, and the model railway club will open its Merri Street clubrooms from noon-5pm for a miniature steam engine display.
Warrnambool City Council has organised a number of tours for passengers to choose from while they are here.
Mr White said future trips may be another day trip, or a weekend trip offering short shuttle rides to locals.
“It definitely will happen again. Don’t know when,” he said.
He may even bring down the old red rattlers on another trip, but because they are so old they can only travel at 80km/h, making it a slower journey.
