Hop aboard Queensland Rail’s heritage steam train for a nostalgic journey to the Ekka this August 2026. Departing from Roma Street Station on People’s Day, this affordable 50-cent ride offers local Brisbane families, kids, and train enthusiasts a memorable way to travel to Exhibition Station in true vintage style.
Steam Train Rides to the EKKA
Steam makes a grand return for Ekka 2026, with Queensland Rail’s much-loved heritage steam train offering special rides to the show on People’s Day, Wednesday 12th August.
For just 50 cents, passengers can board at Roma Street Station and enjoy a nostalgic journey to Exhibition Station aboard this beautifully preserved piece of railway history.
The iconic BB18 ¼ steam engine, affectionately known as ‘Bety’ will operate eight special runs between Roma Street station and Exhibition station on Wednesday, 12 August giving customers a heritage journey into Ekka in its 150th year. Customers will be ‘chuffed’ to learn the trip will only set them back their regular 50 cent fare to either hop on at Roma Street station to go to the show, or ride the return loop approximately every 30 mins.
Regular train Ekka loop services will also be operating around every 15 minutes on the Ekka Public Holiday, and approximately every 10 – 15 minutes on Saturdays, Sundays and weekday peak hours.
Seats are limited and rides are popular, so arriving early is recommended. As a heritage train, the carriages have limited space and accessibility, and times may vary slightly due to the age of the locomotive.
This charming ride promises to be a memorable and fun way for families, train enthusiasts, and Ekka-goers of all ages to travel to the show in true vintage style.
Steam Train Rides to the EKKA details
When: Wednesday 12th August, 2026
Ekka steam train timetable: Roma Street station to Exhibition station loop
- 9.06am – 9.36am
- 9.55am – 10.26am
- 10.37am – 11.06am
- 11.24am – 11.56am
- 12.05pm – 12.37pm
- 12.55pm – 1.26pm
- 2.06pm – 2.36pm
- 2.55pm – half loop service to arrive at Exhibition station and terminate.
Where: departing Roma Street Station to the EKKA
Cost: 50c fares apply
More information: here
