Families, train enthusiasts and curious first-time visitors will have the chance to experience one of the district’s most unique attractions when the Galston Valley Railway hosts its monthly public open days on Sunday, June 14 and Sunday, July 12.
Operated by the Hornsby Model Engineers Co-operative Limited, the volunteer-run railway features an extensive 5-inch gauge miniature railway stretching about one kilometre through a natural bushland setting near Hornsby.
Public running days are held on the second Sunday of every month, giving visitors regular opportunities throughout the year to enjoy rides on the miniature railway.
The railway has become a favourite destination for generations of local families, with visitors returning year after year to enjoy the trains, scenery and relaxed atmosphere.
According to Vice Chair Lindsay Day, new visitors are often struck by the combination of the railway’s natural surroundings and the experience of riding behind working model locomotives.
“New visitors to the Galston Valley Railway (GVR) are very appreciative of the blend of our sloping natural bush site with a 1 kilometre, 5-inch gauge railway running through it and our free picnic areas and support facilities,” Ms Lindsay said.
The attraction caters to both families and model engineering enthusiasts, with steam and diesel-powered miniature trains running throughout the day, as well as an elevated garden railway and displays of model engineering projects.
Many visitors return across generations, with the club noting that it is common to meet people who first visited with their own children decades ago and now bring their grandchildren to share the experience.
“The cooler weather in June and July adds to the atmosphere around the GVR with the steam exhausted from steam locomotives hanging in the air. Everybody rugs up and can feel the cool air on their cheeks,” she said.
Behind the scenes, the railway is maintained by a dedicated team of volunteers. A core group of “Wednesday Workers”, mostly retired members aged from their 60s to over 90, carry out maintenance and upgrades throughout the year, while younger members help operate the railway on public running days.
The club traces its origins back to the 1970s and continues to welcome new members interested in a wide range of hobbies and skills, from steam engineering and railway operations to 3D printing, electronics, clock restoration and model ships.
Visitors to the June and July running days will also get an early glimpse of preparations for the annual Galston 500 charity event, scheduled for August 29.
Inspired by the club treasurer’s personal journey with multiple sclerosis, the Galston500 has raised more than $77,000 for medical research since it began. This year, organisers hope to raise $20,000 for the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, which is marking its 30th anniversary in 2026.
This year’s theme is “Let’s Celebrate!”, with participants and visitors encouraged to dress in their favourite party outfits.
For anyone yet to discover the railway, the club has a simple invitation: “Come along and have fun with us!”
For more information about the Galston Valley Railway Open Days, visit their website at www.hme.org.au, email [email protected] or call +61 2 9653 1630.
For the Galston500, visit www.galston500.com
