Galston 500 is Back for a Huge Day of Miniature Train Rides

All Aboard! Tiny trains are taking on one seriously big challenge when the Galston 500 returns to Galston Valley Railway on Saturday 29 August 2026.

Perfect for little train enthusiasts, this once-a-year event sees teams of miniature locomotives tackle a combined 500 laps of the railway's 1-kilometre bushland track while raising money for Multiple Sclerosis research at The Westmead Institute for Medical Research.

What is the Galston 500?

It's an endurance race, miniature railway style! Throughout the day, teams operating 5-inch gauge miniature trains will work towards completing an enormous 500 laps around Galston Valley Railway's picturesque track. Visitors can watch the challenge unfold from trackside and cheer on the little locomotives as they clock up the kilometres.

Kids Can Ride the Trains Too

Watching is fun, but hopping aboard is likely to be the highlight for young train fans.

Public train rides will run from 10 am to 3 pm, with single rides costing $4 per person or an all-day ride pass available for $15. The railway winds for around 1 kilometre through natural bushland, with a mix of miniature locomotives taking to the tracks.

There'll also be food available on the day, with Galston Valley Railway's canteen and sausage sizzle traditionally keeping hungry passengers fuelled between rides.

Good to Know if You're Bringing Toddlers

There is no minimum age for the train rides, but little passengers need to be able to sit upright and face forward in their own seat. Babies cannot be carried aboard in arms or baby carriers, and children under 3 must ride with an adult aged 18 or over who also has a ride ticket.

And don't arrive in thongs or sandals — fully enclosed shoes are compulsory for everyone riding the trains. The site is set among bushland with slopes and steps, although there is a pram ramp providing access to the trains and picnic areas.

Visit Galston Valley Railway to book tickets.

Where:  Galston Valley Railway, 29 Mid Dural Road, Galston
When:   Saturday, 29 August 2026 | Gates open at 9.30 am; public train rides from 10 am to 3 pm
Cost:     Adults $10; children under 18 go FREE | Train rides: $4 per person per ride or $15 for an all-day ride pass

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