It’s an icon and nothing brings back more childhood memories than going on a ride on Puffing Billy. The smell of the engines and the clunks and grinds of machinery as you enter the Belgrave platform, is all part of the experience. Add in the volunteers dressed in traditional uniforms blowing whistles and waving flags - you feel like you are part of the Thomas the Tank Engine story.

The most popular return trip is the Belgrave to Lakeside and back. Along the way you will cross the historic Monbulk Creek trestle bridge, wave at the friendly locals from their backyards and spot the Cardinia Reservoir in the distance. For the best view, sit on the platform side as you board at Belgrave. Make it even more special and head all the way to Gembrook OR jump on at Emerald. The combinations are only limited by the current running timetable.

A return trip to Emerald will make up a whole day activity - you will need to allow 3 hours at a minimum and the first trains of the day usually leave at 10:30am. For the Little Ones - nap time might need to be on the train ride back to Belgrave or skipped altogether. So pack a picnic to devour by the lake and Mamma says, all you have to do is enjoy the ride. TOOOOOT!

Mamma's lil' tips:

Snacks. Pack plenty of snacks and then some more. Food is a great distraction for those little ones who might needed to be stretched in the attention-span department.
Pack a picnic blanket that can be used in a number of different ways. 1. At the lake with your picnic. 2. To sit on the leather seat that can heat up, and 3. For warmth on the cooler days - it can get a bit breezy in the open carriages.
Sitting on the sills is BACK! For kiddos ages 4 up, with a responsible adult, may sit on the windowsills again on services between Belgrave and Lakeside.
Menzies Creek has a TRAIN MUSEUM at the station! Entry is free for those with your train ticket.
Don't wear your best party clothes. There will be plenty of soot flying around and you will find some on railings and in the carriages. Don't be surprised to be shaking off your hair later.
There is plenty to do at Emerald lakeside including the new visitors centre, complete with a great cafe and museum; go for an explore of the walking trails, play on a paddleboat or over the summer head to the wading pool.
Of course if you don't think your kids are up for a full Puffing Billy experience - there is also Day Out With Thomas which is PERFECT for the little guys!