The annual 2025 Planes, Trains and Autos Festival promises an exciting array of events and activities for enthusiasts of all ages. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect throughout the May long weekend in Ipswich.
Fully Charged
Saturday 3 May experience a huge day out at Fully Charged held at the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops.
Watch the sky come alive with incredible aerobatic displays from Matt Hall and Kris Sieczkowski. Whilst on the ground attendees have the chance to interact with a variety of inclusions such as racing lawnmowers, emergency services vehicles, and V8’s to name a few. Crowd favourites like Ipswich Waste Services machinery and the Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights basket will also return to the family-friendly event.
Book your tickets to this memorable day out here.
QPSR Train Rides
On Saturday 3 May the QPSR will be offering vintage diesel hauled train rides.
Trains depart Swanbank Station at 9am, 11am and 1.30pm and take a 70 minute return journey through bushland and historic coal mining sites to picturesque suburban scenery at the base of Castle Hill.
Park and Pose
Later Saturday evening, Park and Pose is on from 5pm-8pm with a variety of classic and muscle cars on display as well as electric go-karts in the Nicholas Street Precinct. With live music and a variety of dining options it is the perfect way to end the day.
Grandchester Model Live Steam Running Day
Sunday 4 May take a country drive and enjoy the Grandchester Model Live Steam Association Running Day. Experience the charm of a real railway station with scaled-down versions of coal-burning steam engines which you can ride on! The event is always a big hit with the kids and adults alike, rides are $3 per person, tickets can be purchased at the gate. (Please note it is cash only).
Mustang Car Show
Sunday 4 May you can also enjoy a Mustang Car Show. The Hotel Commonwealth is teaming up with Mustang Enthusiasts Queensland to bring an unforgettable day of horsepower and style from 11am-2pm.
Queensland Retro Picnic
Round out the long weekend with the Retro Picnic on Monday 5 May. Hot rods, classic cars, muscle cars, bikes, street food, and live music create a vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy at Evan Marginson Park, Goodna.
Planes, Trains and Autos is a thrilling long weekend for anyone passionate about aviation, rail, autos, and more. Don’t miss out on any of these fantastic events – book accommodation to fully immerse yourself in the weekend’s festivities.
See the Ipswich Festivals Planes, Trains and Autos page for more information.
