CORE2026 Adelaide
2026-08-17 - 2026-08-19
The Railway Technical Society of Australasia (RTSA) warmly invites you to join us for CORE 2026, the Conference on Railway Excellence, in Adelaide, one of Australia’s most connected and innovation-driven rail cities.

CORE2026 builds on the achievements of previous conferences, featuring national and international speakers sharing insights on cutting-edge technologies, methodologies, and strategies shaping the future of rail. The technical program will also include site tours and demonstrations, highlighting innovations that position rail as a leader in the transportation sector.
The conference is hosted by RTSA, a joint Technical Society of Engineers Australia and Engineering New Zealand, established in 1997 as a non-profit organisation to promote collaboration among academic, industrial, commercial, and governmental organisations in railway technology and management.

Visit the CORE2026 website here: CORE2026

Steamranger Highlander Family Day - expression of interest
2026-09-20 08:30 - 17:00 (Australia/Adelaide)
We invite you to express your interest in joining a unique family day centred around experiencing steam travel between Mount Barker and Strathalbyn. This event offers the special opportunity to experience the historic RX224 steam locomotive, which has been in operation for more than a century, pulling beautifully preserved heritage carriages and tenders. Facilities including toilets are available both on board and at each station to ensure your comfort throughout the journey. Please note that disability access is limited, so feel free to reach out if you have specific accessibility needs.

Expressions of Interest
If you’re interested in attending, please complete the EOI by clicking this link – EOI – Steamranger Highlander Family Day at your earliest convenience, and no later than 12 June 2026. Responding promptly will greatly assist us in organising a memorable day for as many participants as possible, especially as we continue planning following our recent meeting with the Steamranger team on 11 May 2026.

Further detailed information can also be obtained from sa@rtsa.com.au

NOTE 1: Unfortunately, we will likely need to limit tickets to 4 per member.
NOTE 2: Children under 4 are assumed to not need a seat.
NOTE 3: Persons must be able to walk onto the train via a short step. Ramps for wheelchairs are not available, but these can be stored on board in the baggage car along with prams and strollers etc.

Proposed Itinerary
The day’s itinerary is as follows:
Sunday 20th September
– 8:45am: Arrive at the carpark next to Mount Barker Station.
– 9:00am: Gather at Mount Barker Railway Station.
– 9:20am: All participants board the train.
– 9:30am: Departure from Mount Barker.
– 10:30am: Arrival in Strathalbyn, with free time to explore local shops and cafes.
– 11:30am: Train departs Strathalbyn (please note, if you miss this departure, you’ll need to catch the 4:00pm train back to Mount Barker).
– 12:30pm: Arrival at Mount Barker.
– Lunch will be provided at the station, featuring a BBQ and cool drinks, all included in the cost. Any special dietary requirements will be finalised closer to the event.
– 1:30pm: Official event closure.

Optional Activity:
– 1:30pm: Guided tour of the Mount Barker maintenance depot for attendees aged 14 and above.
– 2:30pm: End of the optional tour and final event closure.

This schedule ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, with opportunities for socialising, sightseeing, and a glimpse behind the scenes at the maintenance depot.

Cost
Please be aware that the PWI SA Section and the RTSA are generously subsidising the cost of the day. While the final price will depend on how many participants we have, you can expect the cost to fall within the range of $10 to $30 per person.
