Trains History
Woven into the very fabric of our modern lives, it's extraordinary to think of a time where trains existed only as a tool of industrial transport. Key to the acceleration of the Industrial Revolution, trains transformed global society as they contributed to the growth of cities and remote towns, expanded job opportunities and unlocked the potential for global and domestic travel.
Suddenly boarders were crossed with great efficiency, goods were traded across vast distances and the world truly seemed to open its doors for global communication, travel and economics. A far cry from the intricate railway networks and transports speeds that we enjoy today, its important to look back at the history of trains to learn from our journey and appreciate the distance modern society has travelled.
Australia's First Trains
Australia's first trains were built while the country was little more than spread out settled colonies and up until the mid-1800s, the main modes of transport were coastal shipping services and horse-drawn carts. The first steam railway was built in 1854 and operated between Melbourne and Port Melbourne. From there, various colonies rapidly developed further railway systems.
Famous Train Stations
From historic train stations complete with age old architecture to modern super structures and stations in the most amazing of places, Australia is home to a number of famous train stations. From Melbourne's Flinders Street Railway Station to Sydney's Central Railway Station and Kuranda Railway Station's unique scenic railway, discover some of Australia's most iconic train stations, railways and landmarks.
History of the Ghan
The Ghan is a famous Australian rail journey that operates between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin. Spanning 2,979km, the journey is a legendary rail service that has been operating since 1878. Originally known as the Afghan Express, The Ghan takes its name from the 19th century Afghan camel drivers who arrived in Australia and helped to explore the country's remote interior.