With pastures of soft green grass cloaking the countryside and exquisite multicoloured wildflowers everywhere, spring is often considered to be the most beautiful time of the year here in Western Australia. The season's warm temperatures are also a welcome relief after the cold months of winter, making it the perfect time to enjoy a picnic. Taking advantage of the idyllic weather, the South West Rail and Heritage Centre in Boyanup will be holding an old-fashioned railway picnic on Sunday October 25th, from 10.00am until 2.00pm.
Image courtesy of Williamart / Wikimedia Commons
Situated approximately eighteen kilometres south-east of Bunbury and just two hours' drive from Perth, Boyanup is a picturesque village in Western Australia's south-west. Located in the heart of town, on Turner Street, the South West Rail and Heritage Centre has been a popular attraction for many years, educating locals and visitors from further afield about the region's rich heritage, and most notably the role of rail during the early days of colonial settlement.
Image courtesy of the John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland / Wikimedia Commons
Everyone loves a picnic, and the centre's Old Fashioned Railway Picnic will definitely be a great day out, evoking memories of days long ago when such outings were a social highlight for many rural communities, and a welcome break from the usual back-breaking toil of life on the land. With things to see and do for people of all ages, it will be a great family event, giving children an insight into days long gone and the opportunity for elderly family members to reminisce about the 'good old days'.
Image courtesy of Sam Hood / Wikimedia Commons
There will be all sorts of traditional fun and games on the big day, such as sack races, egg and spoon races, three-legged races, a tug of war and much more. In addition, visitors can enjoy a game on the Centre's giant noughts and crosses game, while children will love the special child-sized croquet game and the fabulous parent-powered merry-go-round.
Image courtesy of Sam Hood / Wikimedia Commons
Those who would like a deeper insight into the area's history and Western Australia's rail heritage should also take a look at the Centre's incredible collection of railway rolling stock and vintage farm machinery, and observe the expert blacksmiths, hard at work at their forge. You can also pop in to the Capel Men's Shed, also onsite, to check on the various activities that are going on there. Refreshments will be also available, if you haven't packed a picnic lunch.
In a nutshell, if you're looking for some wholesome family fun, you really can't beat a visit to the South West Rail and Heritage Centre in Boyanup. Located in one of Western Australia's most picturesque regions, it's a great day out for people of all ages and this month's scheduled open day, the Old-fashioned Railway Picnic, offers fun and entertainment for everyone - from the tiniest children to the oldest matriarch. Best of all, entry is by donation, making it an affordable outing, regardless of what kind of budget you're working with. All proceeds go back into the Centre.
The South West Rail and Heritage Centre is situated on Turner Street in Boyanup. To learn more about the centre, take a look at the
Rail Heritage WA website, email
[email protected] or call Norm on 0459 712 552
