Puffing Billy Park and Playground

Welcome to Puffing Billy Park and Playground, located in Emerald, Kilvington Drive, 13. As an establishment, park, and point of interest, we are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, with a special focus on safeguarding children and young people.

Come and reconnect with family and friends in the beautiful surroundings of the Dandenong Ranges. Take a trip down memory lane as you introduce the next generation to the unforgettable history of Puffing Billy Railway. It's a tradition that holds a special place in the hearts of almost every Melburnian, with memories of chugging through the forest, rolling hills, and open farmland, legs hanging over the side. And now, after a temporary suspension, we are thrilled to bring back the beloved activity of sitting on the carriage sills!

At the Lakeside Visitor Centre, you'll find a cultural hub that combines the natural beauty of the area with the authentic sights, smells, and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway. With world-class facilities, it's the perfect place to start your journey.

We offer daily journeys from Belgrave to Lakeside, and on weekends, you can also experience the breathtaking routes from Belgrave to Menzies Creek, Belgrave to Gembrook, and Lakeside to Gembrook. To ensure a smooth experience, all visitors are required to book their tickets online.

Step onboard our open-sided carriages and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Dandenong Ranges. Lush fern gullies brush past as towering Mountain Ash trees create a canopy overhead. For a truly indulgent experience, pre-purchase a delicious grazing box and enjoy it as you ride over hills, through valleys, and into the lush forest. Or, if you prefer, set up a picnic in Emerald Lake Park and savor your afternoon snacks.

For a touch of elegance, why not pre-purchase Devonshire Tea with your Belgrave - Menzies Creek train journey? Sit down at the Menzies Creek Museum's Lil Toot Cafe and delight in freshly baked scones, velvety cream, sweet jam, and a hot beverage of your choice.

But Puffing Billy Park and Playground is not just about the train rides. We invite you to dine in our modern café, explore the walking trails, go swimming (during summer!), or rent a paddleboat to enjoy the cool waters of Lake Treganowan. Discover steam artifacts in the Lakeside Hall before hopping on board your steam train, or even host a private event in one of our function rooms.

And for those looking for a different kind of adventure, we have partnered with COG BIKES Australia to offer bike rentals from our Lakeside Station bike hub. Explore the Dandenong Ranges on two wheels and make your visit even more fun!

Education is also a priority for us, and we offer a range of programs for students of all ages. From Early Years to Year 11 VCE, our programs incorporate various learning activities that explore history, STEM, sustainability, cultural connection, tourism, design, and technology. Bookings for 2023 are now open, and we have exciting new programs waiting to be discovered!

As part of our commitment to the community, we have introduced the Locals Pass, exclusively available to residents within a 10-kilometer radius of any Puffing Billy station. This pass gives you the opportunity to learn more about the railway, its activities, and signature events.

At Puffing Billy Railway, we take the safety and well-being of children and young people seriously. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing a caring, nurturing, and safe environment for all. All team members undergo a thorough background check before their engagement, ensuring the highest level of security. Our children are our focus, our future, and we encourage everyone to speak up if they have any concerns.

So come and be part of our story at Puffing Billy Park and Playground. Whether you're looking to build lifelong friendships, contribute to the community, or simply enjoy a day out in the magnificent Dandenong Ranges, we would love to hear from you. Join us as we continue to run on our original mountain track, preserving the rich history of this iconic Victorian landmark.