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Mary Valley Rattler Timetable — Everything You Need to Plan Your Visit

Mary Valley Rattler Timetable Guide

The Mary Valley Rattler is a heritage train experience in Queensland, Australia. Visitors from all over come to enjoy a historic steam train ride in the beautiful scenery of Mary Valley. The railway was once important for connecting the region to larger markets for selling crops and gold, leading to economic growth. Today, the fleet includes locomotives, railmotors, RRC carriages, and guard vans. 

Keep reading to learn more about the heritage train journey, the Mary Valley Rattler timetable, ways to get here, and much more!

Mary Valley Rattler Timetable

  • The Mary Valley Rattler train is operational on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. 
  • The train journey includes departure from Gympie and arrival at Amamoor, and also a return journey back to Gympie. 
  • The Classic Rattler Run uses a C17 Steam locomotive and the Rattler Tasting run lets you get aboard an RM76 Railmotor. 

Best Time to Visit Mary Valley Rattler

Mary Valley usually has a warm climate through the months of April to October with little rain and generally pleasant weather conditions. The weekdays tend to be less crowded than the weekends as well. 

Classic Rattler Run - C17 Steam Locomotive
Rattler Tasting Train - RM76 Railmotor Locomotive
Mary Valley Rattler

Operating Days: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. 
Duration: 3 hours

Journey Timings: 

Wednesdays and Saturdays
Departure from Gympie -
10 AM; Arrival at Amamoor - 11 AM
Departure from Amamoor - 12 PM; Arrival at Gympie - 1 PM

Sundays
Departure from Gympie -
10 AM; Arrival at Amamoor - 11 AM
Departure from Amamoor - 12:30 PM; Arrival at Gympie - 1:30 PM

Mary Valley Rattler

Operating Days: Thursdays
Duration: 3 and half hours

Journey Timings: 

Departure from Gympie - 10 AM; Arrival at Amamoor - 11 AM
Departure from Amamoor - 11:30 AM; Arrival at Gympie - 12:30 PM
Lunch at Gympie Station: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Mary Valley Rattler Stations

Here are all the stations that the Mary Valley Rattler travels through. 

  • Gympie
  • Dagun
  • Amamoor

Address: Historic Gympie Station, Tozer St, Gympie QLD 4570, Australia. Find it on Maps

Mary Valley Rattler

Gympie Historic Station

Board the train from a station built in 1913, and enjoy the Pagoda-style timber architecture of the historic station. The station today holds the famous Rusty Rails Café, the Booking Office, the Retail Store and the Museum open for visitors.

Mary Valley Rattler

Dagun

A rural town located in the Gympie region, the Dagun station is a small stop on the way to the Amamoor station. This picturesque town is usually only a stop on the Sunday Classic Rattler runs.

Mary Valley Rattler

Amamoor

After journeying through thick agricultural land, you arrive at a quaint town called Amamoor that borders the Amamoor State Forest, home to more than 120 bird species. Also, discover the famous restored turntable that turns the train 180° for its return journey.

Getting to Mary Valley Rattler Station

Mary Valley Rattler

By Car: This is the most efficient way to reach the Gympie station. Your navigation system should take you to your destination effortlessly. Free car parking spots are available on-site and in adjacent streets.

By Train: You can use the Queensland Rail City network to catch a train to the Gympie North Station from various locations in Queensland, including Brisbane. From here, you'll need to take a local bus or a taxi to reach the Mary Valley.

Mary Valley Rattler Route Map 

The train departs from Gympie to Amamoor and travels back to Gympie in about 3 hours. The entire journey takes about 3 hours. 

Travel through the rich farmlands of Australia, above the bridges on Mary River, and around the small hills of the valley. The train departs from Gympie, passes through a small town called Dagun, and arrives at Amamoor after a 1-hour journey. While Dagun also has a small station, the train only makes stops here on Sundays. 

mary valley rattler route

You can download the route map here.

Know Before You Go

Accessibility
Facilities
Cafe
Stay
Nearby
Mary Valley Rattler

Access for the Disabled

  • Special carriage: The Mary Valley Rattler experience is completely wheelchair accessible. You will be boarded onto a special carriage that has more space to easily park your wheelchair during the journey. 
  • Ramps: There are ramps and elevated platforms that allow easy boarding of the train.
  • Wheelchair: We recommend that you bring your own mobility support as wheelchairs aren’t available at the stations. 
  • Toilets: There are accessible toilets present at both the Gympie and Amamoor stations. 
  • Service dogs: You are also welcome to bring your service animal on board. 
  • Inform in advance: As special arrangements would need to be made for those with disabilities, ensure that you inform beforehand.
Mary Valley Rattler
  • Toilets: Washrooms are present at all railway stations.
  • On-board toilets: Only a few Rattler carriages have washroom facilities on board. 
  • Parking: Car parking is available on-site. 
  • Guides: Knowledgeable volunteer tour guides may be onboard to provide information about the history of the Mary Valley, the train, and the surrounding areas.
  • Pets on board: You can also bring your pets aboard the train. A special carriage with greater space allows you to let your pets also remain comfortable throughout the journey. Ensure that you inform the venue beforehand to make the necessary arrangements. You can carry up to 2 pets in a single group.
Mary Valley Rattler

The Gympie Station has a Rusty Rails Cafe that serves a variety of breakfast, lunch and beverage options made from locally sourced ingredients. Designed to resemble refreshment rooms in old stations, there is seating available both indoors and outdoors and also has the capacity to cater to up to 120 people. 

Rusty Rails Cafe Opening Hours

Wednesdays to Sundays: 8 AM to 2 PM; closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

Breakfast hours: from 8 AM

Lunch hours: 12 PM to 2 PM

Mary Valley Rattler
  • Great Eastern Motor Inn: The motel is located in Gympie, and is suitable for couples and families. They are a pet-friendly accommodation option. 
  • The Royal Hotel: Located on Gympie’s main street - Mary Street - the hotel is surrounded by bustling restaurants and shops, giving visitors plenty of options to explore the town. 
  • Amamoor Homestead: Located on a hilltop, this B&B has cosy and rustic country cottages for its visitors. The homestead is also pet-friendly. 
  • Amamoor Lodge: Just outside the Amamoor village, the Amamoor Lodge is perfect for those looking for boutique country holiday accommodation. 
  • Habitat Noosa Everglades Ecocamp: Located within a national park, you would have the option of glamping within nature. You could also enjoy powered or unpowered campsites, or waterfront camping with a lakeside view.
Mary Valley Rattler
  • Lake Alford Park: A beautiful park in Gympie with walking paths, playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and a large lake. It's a great spot for picnics and outdoor relaxation.
  • Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum: Learn about Gympie's gold mining history and the region's heritage at this fascinating museum. Explore exhibits, artefacts, and historical buildings.
  • Gympie Bone Museum: This unique museum showcases an extensive collection of animal skeletons and bones, offering an educational and unusual experience.
  • Skydive Sunshine Coast: Just an hour away from Gympie, the tandem skydive experience at Sunshine Coast allows you to discover this town from a new perspective. With a jumpmaster to control your fall, this experience is open to everyone!

Visitor Tips 

  • Pets allowed onboard: You can take your pets along with you on the journey as well in a specialised carriage. 
  • Private events: You can also book an entire coach for private events. 
  • Buy tickets in advance: It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance as the trains only operate 4 days a week and attract numerous visitors. 
  • Travel on cooler days: Air conditioning is not available in the carriages, so do plan your visit when the weather is pleasant. 
  • Food: You can carry your own food on the journey as well.
  • Weather-dependent operation: The operation of the steam locomotive is subject to weather conditions, volunteer driver availability or other external factors. 
  • Be wary of the smoke: Take necessary precautions if you’re likely to suffer from issues due to smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mary Valley Rattler Timetable

What is the Mary Valley Rattler timetable?

The Mary Valley Rattler is operational on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The train departs from Gympie station at 10 AM and returns from Amamoor at 1 PM. On Sundays, the journey is slightly longer and your arrival at Gympie will be at 1:30 PM. Get more information on the Mary Valley Rattler timetable.

How long does it take to visit Mary Valley Rattler?

The entire Mary Valley Rattler journey takes 3 hours to cover. If your tickets also include lunch, then the duration extends by half an hour.

Is it worth experiencing the Mary Valley Rattler journey?

Lovingly restored by the locals, the Mary Valley Rattler provides a nostalgic heritage experience with its authentic interiors, picturesque landscapes and delectable flavours, making it a rare and one-of-a-kind experience. Learn about how the Mary Valley railway line played a key role in developing the area and experience the bygone era of steam locomotives.

What is the route of the Mary Valley Rattler?

The Mary Valley Rattler train starts its journey at Gympie and goes through Dagun to arrive at Amamoor. The train is turned on the turntable at Amamoor, after which the train returns to the Gympie station.

Where is Mary Valley Rattler located?

The Mary Valley Rattler experience is located in the Gympie region of Mary Valley, in Queensland, Australia. The Gympie Railway Station is at Tozer St, Gympie QLD 4570, Australia. Find it on Maps.

How do I book tickets to Mary Valley Rattler?

We suggest that you book your Mary Valley Rattler tickets online to get great discounts.

How much does it cost to visit Mary Valley Rattler?

The tickets to Mary Valley Rattler Classic Train start from AUD 65 and the Rattler Tasting Train tickets start from AUD 125.

What is the best time to visit Mary Valley Rattler?

The months of April to October are usually dry and warm for a pleasant experience in the Mary Valley Rattler. If you wish to avoid crowds, the weekdays are preferable to weekends.

Can I visit Mary Valley Rattler in a group?

Yes, you can book an entire carriage of the Mary Valley Rattler in advance if you plan to visit in a group or even have a party.

Can I visit Mary Valley Rattler with children?

The beautiful sceneries, wildlife spotting, and the restored steam locomotive of the Mary Valley Rattler route make for highly educational experiences for children and are definitely worth enjoying with your kids.

Is Mary Valley Rattler wheelchair friendly?

Yes, the railway stations and the coaches of the Mary Valley Rattler are wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevated platforms.

Can I buy food and drinks at Mary Valley Rattler?

Yes, the Rusty Rail Cafe at the Gympie station serves food and beverages. You can also upgrade your tickets to experience the Rattler Tasting Train which includes a gourmet lunch at the Rusty Rail Cafe at the end of your journey.