About Gulflander
The Gulf Savannah region of Queensland is a tapestry of rugged landscapes, rich history and unparalleled experiences. Nestled in the heart of this region is home of the legendary tourism train – The Gulflander. Affectionately known as the "Tin Hare," this 1950s railmotor travels between Normanton and Croydon during the months of April to October each year (depending on the weather).
Thousands of visitors journey from all corners of Australia and beyond each year, drawn to the Gulf Savannah as part of their caravanning or self-drive adventures – with the Gulflander always a highlight on their itineraries. Travel one-way or return from Normanton to Croydon station on our traditional departures on the Wednesday and Thursday or take a short journey to Critters Camp or Golden Gate. Check out the range of Gulflander experiences here.
Originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton with the rich gold fields of Croydon, today the Gulflander is a tourism icon and a working tribute to the early peoples of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Said to go from “nowhere to nowhere”, this heritage-listed railway line opened in 1891.
The line was built to withstand almost anything – including floods and termites. The construction of the line is an ingenious engineering feat, and even today, retains most of the original rail and sleepers, and is the only Queensland railway still measured in miles.
A trip on the Gulflander is more than a rail journey - it's a living piece of Queensland history, a once in a lifetime experience for young and old.
