Train Reinstatement Project

After almost 15 months, we are delighted to advise that our miniature steam train rides have recommenced.

The incredible amount of work undertaken by Mark Sarah and Chris Sarah, along with periodic support from the outdoor team has seen the realisation of the ride’s return.

The upgrade works have involved refurbishment of our old favourite locomotive, Mighty Mike. Mighty Mike has been operating for more than 35 years and we now look forward to the next 35 years. Mighty Mike’s original designer and builder, Ross Bishop has also been very helpful in our quest to reinstate the train ride.

In addition to the refurbishment work on Mighty Mike, the new-look operation will see the introduction of all newly designed and constructed carriages. These carriages will offer more comfort and amenities for visitors and provide extra running commentary during rides.

A fully refurbished track is also a feature of the upgraded operations, all of which are necessary to deal with the imminent arrival (early 2025) of our new locomotive which was commissioned for construction in early 2023. The new locomotive will provide for additional passenger capacity during busy times as well as allowing for us to rest both locomotives periodically for essential maintenance and testing. This will also mean continuous operation of train rides against the old days when we needed to cease operations.

Cockington Green Gardens has been incredibly well supported by expert amusement device engineers, DRA Safety during our audit and upgrade processes. We particularly acknowledge Sina, Ryan and Mitch for all of their guidance and support.

Through our membership of Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association, we were incredibly fortunate to secure the services of Klaus Clemens of RMAus as specialist track engineers to oversee track refurbishment via multiple inspections and reports provided.

The reinstatement has also been supported with advice and guidance of Jonathan Kobus and Russell Jackson at Visit Canberra through liaison with the team at Construction Licensing and Governance whose cooperation and advice we also acknowledge.

Behind the scenes, Sally, Amanda and Susan have provided essential input without which the recommencement would not have been possible.

We are thrilled at the imminent return of our steam train operations and would ask that all visitors and prospective passengers bear with us as we recommence rides and introduce new systems.