Illawarra Live Steamers: Miniature Train Adventures
Experience the charm of miniature trains! Family-friendly fun in North Wollongong's Stuart Park. Open select Sundays.
The Illawarra Live Steamers, located in North Wollongong's Stuart Park, is a captivating attraction for train enthusiasts and families alike. This non-profit organization has been sharing the joy of model engineering and live steam locomotives since the early 1960s, with the first official meeting of the club being held in April 1965. In the late 1970s, the club moved to its current site in Stuart Park, North Wollongong, with operations commencing in 1980. Visitors can experience the thrill of riding on miniature trains that wind through 1.5km of ground-level track, traversing bushland and wetlands. A 250m elevated track adds to the excitement, catering to various gauges of model trains. The club also features a Gauge 1 (45mm) dual mainline track in the center of the grounds. Illawarra Live Steamers operates public running days on the fourth Sunday of each month (except December). Gates open around 8:30 am, with trains running from 10:00 am until mid-afternoon. The train rides last for approximately 5-7 minutes. The organization also holds an annual Hot Pot Run, an invitational event for live steam enthusiasts. The Illawarra Live Steamers is more than just a train ride; it's a community of dedicated members who meticulously maintain the grounds and locomotives. The locomotives are roughly 1/12th scale models of their full-size counterparts. Some highly detailed models can take over 20 years to build. The steam locos work just like the real ones, with a coal fire and water to create the steam pressure. Visitors can enjoy the picnic grounds, complete with tables, BBQ facilities, and toilet facilities. A canteen is also available, selling snacks, drinks and ice cream.
Local tips
- Wear enclosed footwear to ride the trains. Thongs, sandals, and open-toe shoes are not permitted.
- Arrive early on public running days, as the train rides are popular and can get busy.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the beautiful grounds and BBQ facilities.
- Check the Illawarra Live Steamers' Facebook page for any cancellations due to weather.
A brief summary to Illawarra Live Steamers
- Virginia St, North Wollongong, New South Wales, 2500, AU
- +61242271645
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From North Wollongong Station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Exit the station and head east along Virginia Street. The Illawarra Live Steamers is located on the left, across from Stuart Park. Alternatively, several bus routes stop near the station, including routes 55A and 55C. A single trip Opal card fare costs around $3.50.
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Walking
From Stuart Park, cross Virginia Street to reach the entrance of Illawarra Live Steamers. The grounds are directly opposite the park's main area.
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Driving
From Wollongong, head north along the Princes Highway and turn left onto Virginia Street. The Illawarra Live Steamers will be on your left, across from Stuart Park. Limited free untimed parking is available at the North Beach car park, but it can be difficult to find a spot on weekends. Check signs for parking restrictions. Metered parking is available on Cliff Road. Spacer and Parkhound offer monthly parking options in North Wollongong.
