Bulla Hill Miniature Railway: Big Views, Little Trains and a Welcoming Community
You don’t need grandchildren in tow to enjoy a visit to Bulla Hill Miniature Railway. Plenty of people come for the scenery, the gentle rhythm of the ride, or simply to reconnect with a lifelong love of trains. And once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why many visitors say, “We’re coming back next month.”
Set on public land in the township of Bulla, this volunteer-run railway offers one of the most relaxed and scenic outings on Melbourne’s northern edge – with a strong community spirit at its heart.
A Railway Built on Passion (and Persistence)
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway began life in 1974 as the Tullamarine Live Steam Society, formed by a small group of railway enthusiasts in Melbourne’s north-west. After two decades at a leased site in Tullamarine, the club faced relocation when the land was sold. With support from the City of Hume, the society secured its current home in Bulla – a generous 6.7-hectare site surrounded by open space.
Members voted to rename the club to operate as BHR, and in December 2024 proudly celebrated 50 years of operation. Today, the railway stands as a testament to what a committed group of volunteers can build – and sustain – over decades.
What to expect on a visit
Public run days are relaxed, friendly and well organised. Tickets are affordable (5 bucks!), the atmosphere is welcoming, and everything is designed to be enjoyed at an unhurried pace.
The 7¼-inch gauge public track stretches for around 1.5 kilometres, with the full loop taking approximately 15 minutes. Along the way, riders pass through trees, over a bridge, around curves and into open clearings where the views suddenly open up.
Volunteers say this moment never gets old. As the train emerges into the clearing, adults are often just as delighted as children, quietly taking in sweeping views towards Mount Macedon. On a good day, you might even spot eagles riding the thermals overhead.
Other highlights include:
- A mix of steam, diesel and electric trains
- A tunnel along the route
- Dinosaur figures and animals hidden around the track
- “Rex” the orange dinosaur – find him for a stamp on your hand
- A small train-themed playground near the station
- Plenty of parking
- A kiosk run by volunteers
- Free BBQ facilities
- Shelter hire for functions (currently $55)
Tickets cost $5 per person, with all funds going directly back into maintaining and improving the facility.
Not just for kids
While many families visit with grandchildren, Bulla Hill Miniature Railway also attracts:
- Train enthusiasts keen to see steam locomotives
- Visitors reliving childhood memories
- People making their way around Melbourne’s miniature railways
- Couples and friends simply looking for something different to do
A volunteer community that keeps moving
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway is run entirely by volunteers from the Tullamarine Live SteamSociety, many of whom are retired or semi-retired. Keeping the railway operating is very much a shared effort, with members contributing in ways that suit their interests, skills and energy levels.
Railway promotions officer and volunteer Sue Brabazon says the strength of the group lies in its flexibility and sense of belonging.
“Whatever skills you have, we can usually find a place for you,” Sue says. “It’s important to belong somewhere. That connection really helps prevent social isolation, and all the walking around the track and little jobs we do keeps us active and mentally stimulated.”
Volunteering roles range from practical hands-on work to lighter duties, including gardening, lawn mowing, track maintenance, cleaning, painting, kiosk support, and helping maintain locomotives and carriages. There are regular working bees, mid-week maintenance days, play days on the first Saturday of each month, and public run days on the third Sunday, along with social activities that make the railway as much about community as it is about trains.
Enthusiasm matters more than experience. Volunteers say the real reward comes from working together, learning new skills, and seeing the enjoyment on visitors’ faces each month. For many, it’s a meaningful way to stay active, connected and involved – while supporting a much-loved local attraction.
Accessibility and practical tips
- Public run days: Third Sunday of each month, 11am–4pm
(last train departs at 3.45pm) - Tickets: $5 per person (cash or EFTPOS), purchased on site
- Paths: Concrete paths around the station area; car park surface is dirt and stones
- Toilets: Available, but not wheelchair standard
- Food: Kiosk selling light meals, snacks and coffee
First-time visitors should know that the site is informal and community-run. It’s worth wearing comfortable shoes and allowing time to sit, watch the trains come and go, and enjoy the surroundings.
Why it’s worth the trip
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway is not flashy, and it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it offers fresh air, sweeping views, friendly conversation and the simple pleasure of a train ride through the landscape.
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway
15 Green St, Bulla VIC 3428
Public run days: third Sunday of the month
Tickets: $5 per person
Website: bullahillrailway.org.au
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
