Step into a different era on an SRHC dining train

By Billie Davern

Feb 24, 2025

On Saturday, February 22, Seymour Railway Heritage Centre (SRHC) granted me an unforgettable experience on one of its elegant heritage trains.

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I stepped into the dining car at Shepparton Railway Station and was immediately transported to an era of locomotive travel long since past.

A delicious mini pavlova nest was also on offer for dessert. Photo by Billie Davern

Not only are first-class passengers subject to the unique air of late 1930s travel, with the carriage being from the iconic Spirit of Progress, but while seated they receive an exquisite three-course meal.

After indulging in the delicious food thanks to Seymour’s The Brewer’s Table, I was able to sit back and watch the hills and gum trees, as well as the flowing Goulburn River, roll by.

The journey really gives travellers a chance to appreciate all that our region has to offer.

Passengers were waiting in the dining car on the train’s arrival, ready to indulge in an exquisite feast. Photo by Billie Davern

We arrived at Seymour station about 7.30pm and were given about an hour to explore Station St, providing valuable business to the pubs and cafes lining the street.

When I again boarded the train to head back to Shepparton, Seymour Railway Heritage Centre board member Matt Tennant gave me an exclusive tour of the train.

Beautiful gum trees and paddocks rolled by as we dined. Photo by Billie Davern

I was able to walk between the carriages, stepping into different eras as I did so, with the train being made up of carriages from varying locomotives, some dating back to the 1920s.

I finished the incomparable experience by feeling the wind on my face on the observation deck of the Yarra Parlour at the back of the train.

We boarded the train at 9pm to get a tour of the heritage carriages from SRHC board member Matt Tennant. Photo by Billie Davern

SRHC will be running another dining train on Sunday, March 9, from Seymour to Shepparton, giving passengers a chance to have a few hours to discover the cafes and pubs in Shepparton.

Passengers can either book first class, where they will receive an unforgettable dining experience on the Spirit of Progress carriage, or they can book a seat in the excursion section.

For more information on this timeless travel experience, visit SRHC’s Facebook page or go to its website at srhc.org.au/tours/