These school holidays, families can enjoy the perfect day out at Puffing Billy where the century-old tradition of sitting on the sills has returned, ready to create fond memories for generations young and old! In addition to chugging through the rolling hills of the Dandenong Ranges with legs dangling out the side, visitors can enjoy a suite of fun activities including bike hire, picnics and the Lakeside Visitor Centre’s first photographic exhibition.

A truly iconic experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, sitting on the sills allows visitors a close-up experience of the Sherbrooke Forest, home to the world’s tallest species of flowering plants, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.  The time-honoured tradition is available for everyone over the age of four, with adult supervision required for children aged 4-13 years.

Visitors can jump on two wheels and explore the beauty of the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Rail Trail! In partnership with local family-owned company, COG Bikes Australia, a range of bikes including standard trail bikes, e-bikes, balances bikes or children’s pedal bikes are available to hire from Puffing Billy’s Lakeside Station in Emerald Lake Park, ranging in price from $10 to $35. Those looking for adventure both on and off the train can pre-book their bike and collect it at Lakeside Station, while keen cyclists visiting Emerald Lake Park can hire a bike on the day, for the whole day.

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Those more interested in art can explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre which is housing its first photographic exhibition. From 2nd April, visitors can view the anthropomorphic work of local artist Karen Alsop from Story Art. The exhibition, named ‘Aussie Wildlife Adventures’ paints the picture of Australian native animals enjoying their adventure on Puffing Billy, while also educating guests about the dangers these animals face in the wild. This free exhibition can be observed between 9 am and 4 pm daily.

With Autumn the perfect time to take in the beautiful landscape and its changing colours, patrons are welcome to find a spot amongst the trees for a picnic. Both adult and kids picnic packs can be pre-booked from Puffing Billy and enjoyed in the Emerald Park Lake precinct.  

During the school holidays, Puffing Billy will be open every day. Limited tickets available – pre-book your family adventure today!

For more information on COG Bikes Australia, please visit: www.cogbikesaustralia.com.au/cog-bikes-lakeside-hire
For more information on, Karen Alsop, please visit: www.portfolio.storyart.com.au/

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