Qld's Spirit of the Outback celebrates milestone

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Qld's Spirit of the Outback celebrates milestone

Qld's Spirit of the Outback celebrates milestone
By Chrissy Arthur

The Spirit of the Outback train that travels between Brisbane and Longreach in western Queensland has marked 20 years of service.

The Queensland Rail passenger train started its 1,300 kilometre service in 1993.

Birthday cake was served on board last night as the train left Roma Street Station in Brisbane.

Carol-Anne Nelson from Queensland Rail Travel says it has been an iconic train and has helped to grow inland tourism over the decades.

"Since it started, it has probably carried more than 500,000 passengers in and out of the outback," she said.

"I think the role has changed a lot.

"For me, it is really about supporting those regional communities.

"We've seen some great loads over the last 12 months.

"We are also trying to work a lot more closely with the tourism operators out in the outback to promote the service."

Ms Nelson says while long distance travel options are under review, the train continues to attract customers and support outback tourism.

"The Spirit of the Outback has a fantastic future in Queensland," she said.

"It is such an iconic service and it is really well connected into the tourism industry.

"The Queensland Government is looking and reviewing regional services.

"I think that is really about ensuring they are getting the best services out into those regional and outback areas of Queensland."

[techblitz]

will never forget the first class trip I took back in 2009 from emerald to bris. Had one of the single sleepers....very nice cabins.....blinds up all night watching the lightning from thunderstorms in the distance.