The Cockle Train

Congratulations to all the wonderful volunteers who maintain and run this great little train journey along the coast between Goolwa and Victor Harbor in beautiful South Australia. The SteamRanger Heritage Railway needs our support to continue this great tourism attraction. If you are in the area and the service is running, get on board for either a one-way or return trip. Dogs were allowed too!

What makes a trip to Victor Harbour worth the travel , it's finding out that a lovely steam train is operating trips to Goolwa and back while we were there . I wish someone could work out a way to bottle the smell of burning coal , steam and hot oil, it would be an instant winner with so many people. The loco and carriages were beautifully presented and cared for , and the staff at the stations and on the train , all volunteers apparently, obviously enjoy their work and go out of their way to help and entertain the passengers.The trip hugs the Coast for about half the trip and gives a wonderful view of the Southern Ocean. Relive life as it used to be , and treat yourself to a return trip on this great train journey.

Great experience with friendly, professional volunteers. There was a technical issue with a carriage during the return trip to Mount Barker, which was immediately rectified. Would recommend the trip to anyone.

We travelled from Victor Harbor to Goolwa return on the Steam Ranger today. It was absolutely the perfect day out with our two kids (6yo and 3yo). They loved the train rides and in between we were able to explore Goolwa which is a great town for wandering down the main street. It is a very easy walk from the train station into the town. We enjoyed fish and chips for lunch which we took to the local playground and us parents enjoyed a gin and tonic from Fleurieu Distillery when we were a little early getting back to the train station for our return trip. A really lovely day out with the family.

Great train ride. We travelled from Port Elliot to Victor Harbor and back. It's only a short trip but really scenic and enjoyable.

Victor Harbor is the final destination for a steam locomotive ride. We took the South Encounter route, starting from Mount Barker and arriving in Victor Harbor in the evening. We had about an hour to explore, grab a bite to eat, and then return to Mount Barker. It's a popular route where you can ride in historic carriages, pulled by a steam locomotive, and enjoy the envy of onlookers along the way. Make sure to book your tickets in advance from their website, as it's definitely in high demand. It's an absolute must-try experience!

I had a train set when i was young and i would always imagine myself onboard that little train. I'm very happy to experience it running through the oldest steel railway in Australia dating back 1854.

Lovely experience. We parked in Victor Harbour and took the 11am. Had lunch in Goolwa and went back with the 2.45pm. I would recommend the other way around as there is more to see in VH.

Wow! This was amazing! The volunteers were so friendly and knowledgeable about the trains and the history. My kids had a thousand questions and they patiently answered them all. It was excellent to be able to take a dog on board too, otherwise we would have missed out on this fantastic trip. Oh and the scenery is stunning!!!!

The shunting of carriages, the steam from the engine, and taste of soot infused air was second to none.I would recommend, where possible, to utilise the internet to purchase one’s ticket. Although, the service one must receive, to be part of the first class carriage, has retained its historical significance, as you don’t find personable customer service these days.I felt the return journey, from Goolwa to Victor Harbor, was lacking in the distinct platform conductors whistle. Ones service among this steam hauled transport requires this unteachable technique. Although, what was lacking in conductor commands was adopted by those squealing child-things in our carriage.As one drives themself home in the motor vehicle, I do hope to visit again soon. As I do prefer these steam hauled adventures instead.