Discover the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway

Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway (RCHSR) was established in 1992 by a group of people interested in preserving and operating a steam locomotive that once hauled coal and briquettes from the Red Cliffs railway siding to the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission pumping station on the Murray River.   The organisation was incorporated in 1995.

Tourist & locals regularly  ride on the a 1.8 km narrow gauge railway re-built on part of the former Victorian Railways branch line from Red Cliffs to Morkalla.   The principle attraction is the Kerr Stuart steam locomotive “Lukee”  built in 1901 and restored to operating condition after being in static preservation in Red Cliffs since 1953.

The RCHSR rolling stock consists of “Lukee” and a diesel locomotive “Harry”, passenger cars, wagons, and an inspection car.

RCHSR operates on the first Sunday in each month (except on days of total fire ban or extreme heat) and relies entirely on the contributions made by volunteer workers.

During the cooler months of the year there is always plenty of maintenance to be done.  The replacement of sleepers is ongoing.  This requires a dedicated core group of volunteers, as this work is critical to the ongoing success of the railway.

The continuing success of the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway can only be achieved from active membership.  So if you live in the Sunraysia region we would love to have you on board.  We will train you in all aspects of running a railway, from ganger to driver, everyone is equal.  We also welcome new members to help in the shop or if you have a trade qualification your expertise and guidance would be very welcome.

History

The Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway operates a steam train which has significant historical and cultural importance to Red Cliffs. Unique to Sunraysia, it is the only tourist steam train in the area and one of the few small gauge railways throughout Australia. The important role played by this train in the early days of Red Cliffs has endeared it to the locals.  Now fully restored it is the only one of its type left in the world.

The locomotive, a Skylark Class, named “Lukee”, was built by Kerr, Stuart & Company, at the California Works, Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire, England in 1901, for service with T.A. Martin & Co., Calcutta.

After two years service in India, the locomotive was returned to England for rebuilding, then shipped to the Mount Zeehan Silver Lead Mines on the west coast of Tasmania.

It remained there until 1921.  It was then purchased by the South Australian Government for use on the Cobdogla-Loveday project, carting aggregate and cement from the wharf at Cobdogla to the Humes Pipe Works, at Loveday.

It was acquired in 1924 by the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission of Victoria, and transported from Cobdogla to Red Cliffs by the steamer “Renmark”.

 

The locomotive was in regular service from 1924 to 1954, transporting briquettes from the Victorian Railways siding at Red Cliffs to the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission of Victoria Pumping and Power Station at Cliffside.

It was later obtained by the Red Cliffs Rotary Club for preservation as an historical item, and placed in a reserve near the Red Cliffs Kindergarten. At a later stage, the locomotive was moved to Jacaranda Street, Red Cliffs, where it was on display for a number of years.

Between 1984 and 1987 it was restored by the Sunraysia Steam Preservation Society to running condition.

It was then stored until a permanent home was found.  In early 1992, the South West Reserve was selected as the permanent site to operate the locomotive as a tourist train.

A committee of management was formed, with representatives from the community and the Red Cliffs Rotary Club, who have overseen the development of a tourist railway.

On the first Sunday of each month this historic locomotive will take you on a 30 minute ride leaving the restored Irymple Station, now known as Karadoc, past vineyards and on to Thurla Station.  The engine is uncoupled and moved on to a turntable, turned around then recoupled, before commencing the return journey home.

Help preserve part of Sunraysia’s fascinating rail history by becoming a member of the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway.  Your support and contribution will greatly assist in our ongoing maintenance.

Driven by Volunteers

The heart and soul of the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway are our dedicated volunteers. These passionate individuals donate their time, skills, and enthusiasm to keep the railway running. From engineers and conductors to maintenance crews and station staff, our volunteers are committed to preserving railway heritage and providing an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Interested in joining our team?  We're always looking for new volunteers!

A Family Tourism Experience

The Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway is a perfect family outing. We offer an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Children will be thrilled by the sights and sounds of a real steam train, while adults will appreciate the rich history and nostalgic charm.  Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and create memories that will last a lifetime.  We are dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and accessible tourism experience for every family that visits us.

"A fantastic day out for the whole family.

The volunteers are so friendly and knowledgeable!"