Slim Ekka fares for Wide Bay travellers

Published Friday, 13 July, 2018 at 10:19 AM

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Step right up and travel in comfort to Queensland’s largest annual spectacular – the Ekka – with half price fares available to Wide Bay residents on selected Tilt Train services to and from Brisbane from the 10th to the 19th of August.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said discounted fares would be available on selected Tilt Train services between Brisbane and Bundaberg, offering door to door access to Exhibition station throughout the Ekka. 

“The Ekka is a rite of passage for Queenslanders, and a great day out for the whole family,” Mr Bailey said. 

“From strawberry sundaes to Side Show Alley and Dagwood dogs, it’s definitely worth the trip.

“To celebrate, we are giving people throughout the Wide Bay the chance to leave the car at home and let the Tilt Train take the strain for half the normal fare. 

“Queensland Rail has proudly connected the Wide Bay Region to Brisbane by rail since 1881, and we are excited to bring back the popular Ekka Tilt Train services for the eighth year in a row. 

“Hundreds of customers have taken up this offer in recent years, and this is also the first year both Tilt Trains have returned to the network following a $28 million overhaul of the iconic long-distance trains which commenced in 2015, so we believe this offer will be even more popular in 2018.” 

The overhaul means Tilt Trains now feature Wi-Fi connectivity and makes this year’s trip to the Ekka the most comfortable and convenient yet. 

“You can plan your day out on the trip down and sit back and relax after all the fun is done while Queensland Rail drives you home,” Minister Bailey said. 

“If a one day trip isn’t enough for you, the discounted fares apply to both same day and different day returns, so there’s no reason not to make a weekend out of it. 

“Celebrating more than 140 years, the Ekka is one of the state’s most exciting events bringing the country and city together for a 10-day celebration of what makes Queensland great.”  

Half-price tickets to the Ekka go on sale 14 July, for travel during 10-19 August 2018 only.

Return Ekka Fares to Brisbane from:

Adult*

Child (4-14 years)*

Bundaberg

$89.00

$44.50

Howard

$79.00

$39.50

Maryborough West

$75.00

$37.50

Hervey Bay^

$91.50

$45.76

*Conditions apply. Valid for journeys to and from Brisbane only. (Detraining at Exhibition and joining at Brisbane Roma Street).
^Includes RailBus coach connection between Hervey Bay and Maryborough West.

For further information or bookings visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au or call 1300 655 826.

ENDS

Media Contact: Dominic Geiger, 0447355565