DownsSteam Toowoomba

DownsSteam is a community-based, solely volunteer-run organisation dedicated to establishing a tourist railway for the Darling Downs region. 

Founded to preserve and actively restore the last remaining steam locomotive built at the historic Toowoomba Foundry Company, C16-106 Southern Cross Works No. 28, this locomotive was constructed around 1914.

DownsSteam plans to operate regular passenger services that become part of an integrated tourism transport trail across the Darling Downs.

Our guests will experience fine food excursions, sampling the best our region has to offer from Warwick and Stanthorpe.

Shorter trips to Nobby and Pittsworth help celebrate our region's rich heritage and growth across the Darling Downs.

John Peel, a local train enthusiast was aware that steam locomotive 106, built by the Toowoomba Foundry and housed at the Ipswich railway workshop, was awaiting restoration. 

In July 2000, the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce held a meeting with Queensland Rail to discuss the development of Federation Park at the Toowoomba Railway Station. During these talks it was agreed to return locomotive 106 to Toowoomba for restoration.

Four more restorable carriages belonging to the Australian Railways Historical Society were found and a commitment of support from the Toowoomba Regional Council and Australian Historical Rail Society helped the project progress.

A public meeting was held to gather support from the known dedicated band of steam train lovers, a committee was formed to undertake this massive project, and DownsSteam was born!

Since forming in 2001, DownsSteam has worked steadfastly to establish an active rail precinct on the former Drayton sidings.  We have been able to acquire a large rolling stock fleet including "Pride of Toowoomba" a steam locomotive C16 No. 106; "Brisbane Surburban" a stainless steel branchline diesel locomotive railmotor, and "Sunlander" air-conditioned coaches.