Remember the good old days of travel? Well the old-fashioned service coupled with style and that exclusive feel is back on board. A newly restored fleet of 1960’s ex-Southern Aurora sleeping carriages have been returned to their original condition, ready to transport you back in time. These rail journeys are a celebration of Australia’s railway history, diverse outback landscapes, regional history, rich culture and the people that helped make this unique sunburnt nation what it is today. Get away from the big cities and explore regional New South Wales and beyond.
History 1962-1993
The iconic Southern Aurora began traversing the tracks between Sydney and Melbourne in 1962 and quickly became a roaring success being the first train on the revamped passenger line to offer a luxury overnight service with First Class sleeping carriages. This meant it was no longer necessary to change trains at the border station of Albury from Victorian broad-gauge to NSW standard-gauge trains for both passengers and freight and provided daily departures in each direction. There continued to be a high demand for berths until late in 1964 when jet aircraft were introduced between Melbourne and Sydney, therefore enticing many passengers to be lured by the excitement and speed of a new way to travel by plane. The progressive decline in demand continued throughout the 1970’s until 1986 when the Southern Aurora amalgamated with the then Spirit of Progress to form both the Melbourne Express and Sydney Express. These services remained until 1993 when it was then replaced by the XPT. Rail preservation groups kept most of the Southern Aurora carriages until 2017 when they were purchased by Vintage Rail Journeys and ready for a complete restoration and subsequent return to service as the Aurora Australis.
Twinette Roomette
On board
The Aurora Australis boasts both Roomette (single use) and Twinette Cabins (2 to a cabin) that convert from day sitting lounge chairs to a night time bedding configuration with the Twinettes offering a lower and upper bunk for sleeping arrangements. Roomettes are located in the single compartment carriage offering a panoramic window to view all of the beautiful passing scenery plus a handy vanity to freshen up. Shared ensuite and shower facilities are located at the end of each carriage and are serviced after every use. Twinettes feature seating for up to three people and a private ensuite with a shower, toilet and vanity with uplifting Kudos Spa amenities. Both cabin types are serviced daily with an evening turn down service. The train stops at night for added comfort while sleeping and you travel on rail lines not used for passenger service. Further features include air conditioning, USB adapter power outlets, drinking water in every cabin, shelving and hanging closet, all bedding, a 30kg per person luggage allowance and access to a convenient galley in each carriage for self-service morning and afternoon tea and homemade biscuits.
Lounge and Dining
The Aurora Australis offers an all-inclusive on board two-course dining experience with alcoholic beverages available at an additional cost to purchase for the tour duration. The Dining restaurant features a regionally inspired menu freshly prepared by on board chefs and in support of local producers where possible. Each table is set as seating for four* with consideration given to your preferred seating time and seating with travel companions. The Lounge Car has a specially developed bar menu for each tour and is perfect for a pre or post dinner drink and chat with your fellow travellers or perhaps to make lifelong friends. The resident wine expert behind the bar can offer formal or informal wine tastings and help make your experience the best it can be. You can be involved in the enjoyable on board entertainment in the form of a quiz or scheduled experiences or perhaps just enjoy a book as the rugged countryside scenes go by.
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More Experiences
On board it’s the little things that make this experience even better. A daily newsletter outlining the upcoming day’s events is a welcome added extra including visiting destination facts and information, handy reminders, advice and tips plus a convenient map (if applicable). Each itinerary also gives you unique daily encounters during the exclusive Off-Train Experiences that give such a fantastic insight into the destination and its history with highlights including the Blue Mountain Villages, a ‘Riverboat Postman’ cruise on the Hawkesbury River, historic Goulburn, Emeri De Bortoli’s Private Garden and the tranquil water setting of Port Macquarie.
The Aurora Australis provides rail tours unlike any other. Vintage Rail Journeys supports everything about regional New South Wales down to its crew, produce used and all important time spent in its spectacular locations. It embraces the benefit of slow travel and is 1960’s boutique rail that transcends expectations. Your vintage carriage awaits.
Testimonials
"This was our first rail journey holiday in Australia. We have extensive travel experience since 1969 mostly overseas and we list this experience on the top of our list.The cabin with upper and lower bunks and private facilities was a pleasant challenge even at our age (79 yrs & 80 yrs) Friendly and professional customer service,meals and excursion were all of the highest standard. We are now looking at selecting another rail holiday for 2022. Thank you Vintage Rail for our great experience." Theo & Beverly, Golden West Rail Tour
"Vintage Rail Journeys provided an interesting itinerary: great staff and service; good food; and interesting off-train experiences." Catherine, Golden West Rail Tour
"I loved everything. The food was excellent and so was the service. Was very impressed." Roy, Golden West Rail Tour
"Crew, cabin and tour staff great, all efficient and helpful. Food taste, quantity and presentation good. Excursions varied and interesting. Highlights both at Temora and Peter Piccolo and Griffith." Ken, Riverina Rail Tour
"Provided great, excellent, friendly staff. Organisation of the tours was very professional. The tours were a good cross section of local information and very informative." John' Riverina Rail Tour
Click here for our Vintage Rail holidays or contact Holidays of Australia & the World on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au. Read more about the Golden West Rail Tour, Riverina Rail Tour and North Coast Rail Tour.
Image credit: Vintage Rail Journeys, Destination NSW
* these configurations may change due to COVID-19 requirements.
