The Westlander train today celebrates its golden anniversary after 50 years of servicing commuters between Brisbane and Charleville in South-West Queensland, Transport Minister Paul Lucas has announced.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Transport & Main Roads, Paul Lucas
tran...@cabinet.qld.gov.au
--====----====----====----====----

24/08/04

Mr Lucas said passengers and Queensland Rail staff would celebrate the milestone with a piece of cake on the train's arrival at Charleville Station tomorrow (25 August 2004).

"The Westlander first commenced services along the Brisbane to Charleville route on 24 August 1954, replacing the Western Mail which had operated since 1888," Mr Lucas said.

"Catching the Westlander is one of the easiest and most interesting ways to experience a scenic journey across the Great Dividing Range, through the Darling Downs farmlands before arriving in Charleville - the gateway to Queensland's outback.

"When introduced, the Westlander represented the very latest in rail technology and made the journey to and from south west Queensland much more comfortable for travellers.

Mr Lucas said the Westlander was one of 3 air-conditioned trains built at Commonwealth Engineering in Brisbane in the early 50s, but was the last of the three to come into service.

The other two trains, The Sunlander and Inlander, commenced services in 1953 and still have services operating today.

"When first introduced, the Westlander was hauled by a diesel locomotive between Brisbane and Roma and then two steam locomotives for the remainder of the journey," Mr Lucas said.

"In fact, one of the locomotives that pulled The Westlander, is now stationed at a Southport park on the Gold Coast.

"Today's Westlander carries about 10,000 passengers a year, with many passengers wanting to experience a slice of life in the Outback."

Mr Lucas said the Westlander journeys between Brisbane and Charleville twice a week, taking 17 hours.

The train offers passengers a choice of sleeping accommodation or seating, with a dining car serving meals and snacks throughout the journey.

Media Contact: Sonya Gillece 3237 1942 / 0407 131 654

*****NB: A photo opportunity with QR staff and passengers enjoy morning tea will commence at Charleville Station on the Westlander's arrival on Wednesday 25 August at 11.50am. The train will depart Roma Street Station in Brisbane on Tuesday, August 24 at 7.20 pm.*****