Oct 12, 2024
Dogs on a Steam Train - We have been on the Rattler several times but this was the first time we could take our two dogs. Had an absolutely wonderful time and our dogs thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Staff were very friendly and helpful. We had a compartment all to ourselves with the dogs hanging there heads out the window all the way. Anyone who is looking for a different experience with there pets , this is the one !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 9, 2024
A great day out. - We are went to the station the night before as I am a photography nut. There was only a couple of people there for a dinner so we were able to wander to our hearts content and got some great shots.
We decided to do the VIP experience, and the train ride experience was well worth it......not sure about the lunch at the end (see comments at the end).
We had a lovely cheese platter on board, and a free stubbie holder with a bottle of water was on our table when we boarded. Our volunteer Bruce was very funny and told us about the history on various parts of the journey. He also told us when there was going to be an opportunity for a good photo. But be warned, you CANNOT lean out the windows as they are old and very heavy and can drop down suddenly (which has happened according to Bruce). So if you're with children, keep your eyes on them. We thought we were having lunch on the train but you get lunch when back at the station at the end of the ride. The train stops at Amaroo where there is a quick chance to grab a drink or a little bite to eat, but you have to be quick as it's a 40 mins stop only. If you want to watch how the train turns on the turntable (I'd recommend it), you might have to forgoe your drink or snack.
With the VIP package, your free lunch and drink is preselected when you buy your tickets. But be warned, your drink is already opened by the time you get back for lunch, which we were angry about as we didn't know how long the drinks been opened for.
We had ordered the chicken wrapped in bacon on a bed of potato, and were very disappointed. The potato was tasteless, I dont know what part of the chicken they used but it wasn't the breast, and there were some kind of dried/fried strips of what looked like a piece of yellow grass.
All in all, the day was enjoyable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 5, 2024
Really nice trip - Really nice journey with the old Mary Valley Rattlor. We went there with our kids for the morning tour.
Very friendly staff, Jeff and Lee made a great Job on the train! Helpful, informative and funny!
I really recommend this trip for everyone who is in the region.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 5, 2024
70 plus couple touring Australia on a Harley Trike - What an awesome way to spend the morning. Very relaxing and great scenery and commentary. The staff and volunteers were only to happy to have a chat. We began by having the scone, butter and jam, yuuumy. Highly recommend 👌 👍
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Oct 5, 2024
Interesting and enjoyable trip. - Mary Valley Rattler was a great experience, boarding a steam locomotive at a heritage station which gives you the feeling of going back in time riding on a steam locomotive. We enjoyed the views of the countryside and the friendly locals who waved to us as we travelled by. We were greeted by friendly staff who made you feel welcome from the beginning of the trip to the end.
At Amamoor heritage station we watched as the Rattler was turned around on the turntable to make its trip back to Gympie.
Review provided by Viator
Sep 29, 2024
Lovely afternoon on the rattler - A lovely afternoon was spent chug a chugging along in the Rattler. Nice scenery, nice staff. Overall a lovely experience, highly recommend. You can even bring your pooch along. The cafe was awful though. No kitchen service for the plebs, only for VIP customers. Dried out, ancient looking food in the Bain Marie, unappetising salads, coffee was served barely warm and not very nice. Everything was too much trouble. All quite expensive, no value for money.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sep 25, 2024
Great day out - Great day out. All staffed by volunteers who are brilliant. We went as an adult family, plus a friend and three fur babies. The carriage was set up for dogs. We had such fun.
My only suggestion is to do this with a group.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sep 25, 2024
Fantastic look in travelling from a bygone era. - Fantastic afternoon experiencing travel from yesteryear. The staff were friendly and extremely helpful from the moment we walked into the station. The train crew were friendly and informative, and the light lunch and cheese board were excellent.
So happy we ventured a little out of our way to experience this attraction.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sep 26, 2024
Great trip with lovely scenery. - Great trip with lovely scenery. Staff were really helpful and informative. Would recommend for those looking for a nostalgic journey or with children to be entertained.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sep 30, 2024
Volunteers make this attractions special - The volunteers on the train made our experience really special. They were really keen to share their knowledge of the area.
I'd recommend avoiding the cafe at Gympie. The staff were incredibly rude - it seems like they get very stressed before the train leaves and that nearly ruined our experience. But you can get food and drink on the train trolley service and at Amamoor so I would suggest those instead!
Review provided by Tripadvisor