Vintage Rail Journey to Bathurst 1000 (2025)
Step aboard a unique rail adventure aboard the Southern Aurora, the iconic overnight passenger train that once connected Sydney and Melbourne from 1962 to 1986. Today, its original 1960s carriages have been meticulously restored, offering travelers the chance to rediscover the golden age of train travel through curated daytime journeys across New South Wales. With the train stationary overnight, you can enjoy peaceful rest before waking to explore charming regional towns, stunning landscapes, and the heritage-rich heart of Australia.
Experience the thrill of the Repco Bathurst 1000 in style with Vintage Rail Journeys. Travel aboard the iconic 1960s ex-Southern Aurora train for the most convenient and elegant way to attend Australia’s premier touring car race. Enjoy the comfort of staying onboard the train for three nights—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Convenient shuttle buses will take you to and from the Bathurst Circuit from the nearby Bathurst Railway Station, ensuring a seamless and memorable race weekend.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, these vintage rail tours promise a truly timeless escape.
Highlights & Inclusions
- 3 nights’ accommodation onboard the train
- Reserved Grandstand seat at the Bathurst 1000
- Transfers to and from the race
- All dinners are included onboard
- Breakfast on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
- All-inclusive drinks on board the train, including wine, beers, spirits, and many non-alcoholic options
Your fare excludes:
- Travel insurance
Day 1 | Sydney to Bathurst
Your Bathurst Race’n Rail adventure starts at Sydney’s Central, where you will check in at midday and be greeted with a welcome drink. Once onboard the Aurora Australis, you either choose to relax in the lounge carriage or settle into your cabin while we travel west from Sydney to Bathurst.
Lunch will be served onboard the train today by our charming hospitality attendants and talented team of chefs. In the afternoon, enjoy the live music onboard and test your knowledge in our Bathurst 1000 Trivia. Dinner will be served onboard, and the train will be stable in Bathurst overnight, ready for the Repco Bathurst 1000 tomorrow. (L, D)
Day 2 | Bathurst 1000
Enjoy breakfast onboard before you are transferred to the Mount Panorama Racetrack for day one of Bathurst 1000. Enjoy the race from your reserved grandstand seat. After a thrilling first day at the track, coaches will return you to the train where you will once again enjoy a carefully curated dinner onboard. (B, D)
Note: Guests are required to pay for lunch at the Racetrack.
Day 3 | Bathurst 1000
Enjoy breakfast onboard before you are transferred to the Mount Panorama Racetrack for day two of Bathurst 1000. Enjoy the race from your reserved grandstand seat, this time to enjoy the “big race day”. Be on the edge of your seat while this major event takes place and join the celebrations once the winner is finally crowned. Once the dust has settled, you will be transferred to the train where you will enjoy your final dinner onboard. (B, D)
*Note guests are required to pay for lunch at the Racetrack
Day 4 | Bathurst to Sydney
Enjoy breakfast onboard as you travel from Bathurst back to Sydney. Morning tea will be served onboard before arriving at Sydney Central Station. Your Race ‘n’ Rail Adventure now comes to an end. (B)
* The above itinerary is subject to change.
Departure Date: 10 Oct 2025
- Heritage Twin Cabin from $5,450 per person*
- Heritage Single Cabin from $5,130 per person*
Advertised pricing is subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.
Heritage Twin Cabins are designed to accommodate two guests, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey. During the day, the space transforms into a cosy three-seat lounge, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the passing scenery. At night, it converts into upper and lower bunk beds, with one guest needing to be able to climb a ladder to access the top bunk. Each cabin also features a private ensuite, complete with original 1960s fittings, including a fold-down hand basin and fold-down toilet, preserving the charm of vintage rail travel.
Heritage Single Cabins offer a comfortable and private space for solo travellers, featuring a day lounge with a footrest, a fold-down washbasin, and a mirror for convenience. As evening falls, the cabin transforms into a cosy bed, providing a restful retreat after a day of exploration. Guests in Single Cabins also have access to spacious shared bathrooms located at either end of the carriage, blending vintage charm with thoughtful amenities.
Lounge Carriage - the social heart of the train, invites you to unwind and connect with fellow travellers in a relaxed, welcoming setting. With all-inclusive travel, you can enjoy a selection of Australian wines and beers, as well as unlimited tea, coffee, soft drinks, and juices - all served as you sit back and take in the journey.
Dining Carriage - step into the original ex-Southern Aurora Dining Carriage, where the onboard chef serves hearty, delicious meals crafted with care and inspired by local flavours. Complement your meal with a selection of Australian wines, beers, and other beverages - all included in your fare.
Commences: Central Station, Sydney approx 12pm
Concludes: Central Station, Sydney approx 12pm