STANTHORPE TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Granite Belt by Commissioner Railmotor — a full‑day heritage journey to Stanthorpe’s Apple & Grape Harvest
A full‑day heritage rail trip from Drayton to Stanthorpe that pairs travel in air‑conditioned 2000 Class Commissioner Railmotors with several hours at the Apple & Grape Harvest Festival.
Granite Belt by Commissioner Railmotor — a full‑day heritage journey to Stanthorpe’s Apple & Grape Harvest.
Step aboard beautifully restored Commissioner Railmotors for a relaxed, full‑day excursion from Drayton into the Granite Belt, then disperse into the colour and bustle of the Apple & Grape Harvest Festival — markets, tastings, parades and live entertainment combine with a scenic climb through ranges, farmland and vineyards for a day that blends heritage rail travel with regional celebration.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Markets, tastings and grape‑stomping
Spend several hours at the Apple & Grape Harvest Festival exploring more than 150 market and artisan stalls, sampling Granite Belt wine and cider, watching live entertainment and even joining in grape‑stomping and festival competitions.
Ride the air‑conditioned 2000 Class Commissioner Railmotors
Travel in classic 1960s comfort aboard fully air‑conditioned Commissioner Railmotors with spacious seating, panoramic cab viewing, onboard commentary and hospitality that make the journey as much a highlight as the destination.
A scenic return with included hospitality
This is a full‑day heritage rail experience with included morning and afternoon teas, onboard commentary and time to explore Stanthorpe’s festival precinct before a relaxed return trip through the ranges.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Depart early from Drayton and settle into comfortable, air‑conditioned Commissioner Railmotor seating as the train climbs the Southern Line through rolling farmland, vineyards and ranges. Arrive in Stanthorpe and disperse into the festival — markets, tastings and performances occupy several hours — then rejoin the railmotor in the late afternoon for a scenic, hospitality‑lined return to Drayton.
THE FESTIVAL
Markets, tastings and grape‑stomping
Spend several hours at the Apple & Grape Harvest Festival exploring more than 150 market and artisan stalls, sampling Granite Belt wine and cider, watching live entertainment and even joining in grape‑stomping and festival competitions.
THE TRAIN
Ride the air‑conditioned 2000 Class Commissioner Railmotors
Travel in classic 1960s comfort aboard fully air‑conditioned Commissioner Railmotors with spacious seating, panoramic cab viewing, onboard commentary and hospitality that make the journey as much a highlight as the destination.
THE DAY
A scenic return with included hospitality
This is a full‑day heritage rail experience with included morning and afternoon teas, onboard commentary and time to explore Stanthorpe’s festival precinct before a relaxed return trip through the ranges.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should take care
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Flat, comfortable footwear is strongly recommended for boarding and moving around festival precincts; morning and afternoon teas are included so you may wish to bring a small day pack for purchases.
Onboard commentary and hospitality are provided; morning and afternoon teas are included and additional light refreshments and snacks are available for purchase onboard. Onboard toilets are available on both railmotors.
This is a full‑day heritage rail experience designed for a relaxed pace with several hours ashore at the festival before a scenic return journey.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The approximate total duration is 12–13 hours for the return railmotor day trip.
What time does the train depart and where do I meet?
The service departs from Drayton in the early morning; passengers should arrive at Drayton Station at least 20 minutes before departure.
Are meals included?
Morning tea and afternoon tea are included in the fare; additional light refreshments and snacks are available for purchase onboard.
Is the trip accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately wheelchair access is not available; boarding requires the use of steps.
Are toilets available onboard?
Yes — onboard toilets are available on both railmotors.
Can I request a specific seat?
Advance seating requests will be endeavoured but cannot be guaranteed; the operator reserves the right to assign or reassign seats at any time for operational, safety or security reasons.
Are concession fares available?
Concession fares are not available for this trip.