Home of the only operational
D17 Class Steam Locomotive
An authentic piece of Australian History in the heart of Ravenshoe
Step back in time and experience the magic of steam with Ravenshoe Railway Company Ltd — a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving the heritage and heart of the Ravenshoe steam railway.
For decades, our beloved steam locomotive “Capella” has been a symbol of pride for the community and a reminder of a bygone era. Today, our mission is to restore and operate the Ravenshoe–Tumoulin tourist heritage railway, so locals and visitors alike can once again experience the joy of steam travel through the Tablelands.
Our Story
Born from passion and perseverance, Ravenshoe Railway Company Ltd began as a small group of enthusiasts determined to keep our town’s railway heritage alive. What started as a local preservation effort has become a thriving community project — powered entirely by volunteers and supported by donations, fundraising, and goodwill.
From the restoration of “Capella”, the last operational D17 Class locomotive in the world, to the ongoing upgrades of our tracks and bridges, every achievement has been made possible by people who care deeply about keeping history on track and those that financially support our cause.
How can you help?
It takes people, passion, and persistence to keep the steam alive
— and there are plenty of ways you can be part of the journey:
Stay with Us
Stay at the Ravenshoe Railway Caravan Park or drop by our station to see our work in action.
Support Our Markets
The monthly Tumoulin Country Markets are run by our volunteers — come along or host a stall to help fundraise.
Stay with Us
Stay at the Ravenshoe Railway Caravan Park or drop by our station to see our work in action.
Support Our Markets
The monthly Tumoulin Country Markets are run by our volunteers — come along or host a stall to help fundraise.
A Living Piece of History
The Ravenshoe–Tumoulin line has a proud history dating back to the early 1900s. Once used to transport timber, freight, and troops during wartime, today it stands as a testament to the resilience and heritage of our community.
Every whistle that echoes around the town is a sound of hope — a sign that Ravenshoe’s steam railway is alive and on its way to full revival thanks to the dedication of volunteers and supporters like you.
Join the Journey
Be part of something extraordinary.
Whether you’re donating, visiting, or volunteering, your support helps ensure the Ravenshoe Railway continues to thrive for generations to come.
Together, we can keep Queensland’s highest steam railway alive.
