Media release – West Coast Wilderness Railway, 11 July 2023
Something a little different for the West Coast in the Off Season!
West Coast Wilderness Railway and the Linda Café have collaborated to present something a little different for the west coast this winter. A fantastic month of events to celebrate the days getting longer. The events will be held on charming station platforms with the beautifully restored Wilderness carriages alongside.
Acting General Manager for West Coast Wilderness Railway, Ian Robertson:
“When Zara approached us with the idea to host a month’s worth of events in August, we jumped at it,” he said. “We know that this winter has been soft across the state, and the passenger train suspension is therefore being felt much more keenly across the region.” He added that it was “a thrill to bring west coast businesses together to create interest and a reason to head to the west coast while trains are currently suspended.”
Owner of the Linda Café (on the site of the Royal Hotel) Zara Trihey:
“It’s so exciting to bring these events to the west coast, there really is something for everyone in the program and we hope the locals and those touring our state embrace one, or more, of the events”
Marketing Manager for West Coast Wilderness Railway Emily Hopwood:
“Following the first Alongside event with Matthew Evans, subsequent weekends will see Hobart-based chef comedian Mamma Rosa and well-known Tasmanian jazz musician Ursula Leung traveling to the west coast to deliver events in both Queenstown and Strahan,” says Marketing Manager for West Coast Wilderness Railway, Emily Hopwood.
The event series will close on Saturday, 26th August in Strahan, with an event featuring Shane Wilson from Tasmanian Wild Seafood Adventures.”
The railway expects to resume its normal timetable in time for the 23/24 peak summer season.
Featured events
“Shuddup An’Eat!” Alongside with Mamma Rosa
Queenstown Station – Friday 11 August
Regatta Point Station, Strahan – Saturday 12 August
A hosted event featuring Mamma Rosa’s theatrical hilarity and three-course meal served onboard stationary Wilderness carriages Alongside the station platform. Tickets include entertainment, arrival drink and three-course, very Italian meal.
Jazz & Gin Alongside with Urshula Leung & Innes Distillery
Queenstown Station – Friday 18 August
Regatta Point Station, Strahan – Saturday 19 August
A relaxed, speakeasy event that invites ticket holders to dress up in lounge or black tie for a unique blend of jazz and gin.
Emerging Tullah-based distillers, Innes Distillery, will present an arrival cocktail and gin tasting, while Tasmanian jazz musician, Urshula Leung and her husband, professional cellist Nicholas Mercer will ensure ticket holders sway the night away.
More on the Alongside event series can be found at https://www.wcwr.com.au/tours.
