Preferred operator announced for Savannahlander

The Cairns Kuranda Steam Trains Group (CKST) has been named the preferred future operator of the Savannahlander tourist train service in Far North Queensland.

Transport Minister Steve Bredhauer said the proposal by the group was the best option for operating the historic service to fully integrate it into regional tourism and economic development.

"The Cairns Kuranda Steam Trains Group proposes to operate a similar service to Queensland Rail using the existing rail motor on the line from Cairns to Mt Surprise, initially with bus transfers to Forsayth," Mr Bredhauer said.

"The appointment of CKST as operator will be subject to the outcome of negotiations between the State Government and the group over details of the future service. All being well, CKST should take over from 1 July this year."

From July until the end of the year, Queensland Transport and CKST will examine the case for reinstatement of the Copperfield Bridge which was washed away in flooding.

The Savannahlander takes two days to journey about 425km along one of Australia's most scenic and historic routes. Queensland Transport has been assessing expressions of interest in taking over the operation of the tourist service. The State Government wanted to identify the best operator in order to maximise the train's contribution to regional tourism.

CKST has proposed a range of travel options which can be integrated with local tourist operations.

CKST is establishing a steam train service from Cairns to Kuranda. Directors of the group operate historic steam train services in New Zealand.

Media inquiries: Louise Foley, Senior Media Advisor (07) 3235 4826 or 0407 966 829 ... Marie Low, Media Advisor (07) 3237 1944 or 0408 725 308.