THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride — Bellarine Railway

The Bellarine Railway, a not-for-profit, volunteer-run railway offering steam train rides and family events, stages THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride from its Queenscliff Station. The operator describes a theatrical, immersive experience based on Chris Van Allsburg's Christmas classic, with lively narration and audience participation, and invites everyone to come in their favourite pyjamas.

Guests collect Golden Tickets on arrival and are welcomed aboard by the Conductor. Characters from the story, including Hero Boy, the Hobo and Santa Claus, appear during the experience; stewards narrate the story while showing a large-format book to follow along, perform the "Hot Chocolate" dance scene, and sing popular Christmas carols with guests as the train heads towards the "North Pole". Santa and the Elves present each guest with the "first gift of Christmas", a sleigh bell.

The experience is a 90-minute show built around a 45-minute train trip, 15 minutes each way with a 15-minute stopover for refreshments. Because it is a summer-season show, the operator serves chilled refreshments rather than hot chocolate. Several carriages offer different seating styles, from booths of up to four with a table to pairs of seats and shared open seating.

A 90-minute show including a 45-minute train trip: Golden Tickets on arrival, the story narrated with a large-format book to follow along, the "Hot Chocolate" dance, carols, a chilled chocolate milk or water and a freshly baked gluten-free biscuit, and a visit from Santa and the Elves with a sleigh bell for each guest. The operator designs it for all ages and invites everyone to wear pyjamas. The event has indoor and outdoor parts, so dress for the forecast.

Boards at Queenscliff Station, 20 Symonds Street, Queenscliff, Victoria; parking at the station is free on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can check in up to 30 minutes before their show; platform entry starts once the previous show has left the platform, and the operator warns that delays can change advertised times. Everyone needs a ticket regardless of age, except lap children aged 0 to 23 months, who travel free without a seat or refreshments (limits apply). Seats are allocated at check-in within the carriage chosen when booking; the operator advises booking everyone in one reservation. There are no toilets on the heritage carriages; station restrooms open about 30 minutes before each show and portaloos are at Lakers Siding. Prams and strollers cannot go on board. A ramp serves selected carriages and a limited number of accessible spaces and Companion Card seats are offered per show; the operator asks guests to phone (03) 5258 2069 ext. 101 before booking. Only guide dogs and assistance animals are allowed. Bookings must be made through the operator's official website; all sales are final and non-refundable unless the operator cancels outright.