About the Great Southern

Step aboard the newest rail experience in Australia and prepare to explore a very special region in unparalleled style. Be among the first to experience this sensational all-new adventure, taking in buzzing cities, diverse landscapes and natural marvels, all in the renowned comfort and style of a Journey Beyond rail expedition.

With its rugged coastline, sun-kissed beaches, unique outback, and exhilarating capital cities, the stunningly diverse southeast feels like nowhere else in Australia. We take you there.

Operating 24 departures between December and February, the Great Southern invites you on a breathtaking journey. With its decades-old sister trains, The Ghan and the Indian Pacific, the Great Southern introduces a new journey for anyone with a taste for adventure.

History of the Great Southern

2019

The Great Southern, Australia’s newest long-distance rail journey, makes its inaugural trip from Adelaide to Brisbane, departing the City of Churches on 6 December. From South Australia to Queensland this multi-day journey travels along more than 2000km of tracks, passing through Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory along the way. A laid-back, premium experience, the Great Southern is a rail journey like no other.

The Great Southern in Numbers

average length of train 711M
average weight of train 1626 Tonnes
length of journey 2885kms
average speed 85km/hour (max speed 115km/hour)
symbol The Great Southern's symbol is a kangaroo
average number of carriages 28 carriages. Including guest carriages, crew quarters, Platinum Club, Gold Premium Lounge, Gold Premium Dining, Queen Adelaide Restaurants and Outback Explorer Lounges
average number of beds 21 Platinum Service beds, 70 Gold Premium bed,132 Gold Service beds and 39 crew beds
number of power vans 2 - each containing three 180kVa generators and providing electricity for approximately 14 carriages
number of locomotives 2
average diesel consumption 40,000 litres
Sign up to receive our latest news and exclusive offers