Historic steam locomotives 3265 and 3526 to headline Hunter Valley Steamfest 2026

newy.com.au – Tickets for the Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest 2026 will go on sale on Monday 2 March, with steam locomotives 3265 and 3526 confirmed to headline the event’s ARTC Rail Program in Maitland on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April.

Maitland City Council said the annual festival draws thousands of visitors and delivers economic benefits to local businesses, with the 2026 program centred on heritage rail journeys and the Great Train Race.

Steamfest chairperson Councillor Ken Jordan said locking in the two locomotives was a key step in planning for next year. “Steamfest is a cornerstone event for Maitland and the Hunter region, celebrating the vital role rail has played in shaping our community,” Jordan said.

“The event attracts thousands of visitors to Maitland each year, delivering significant economic benefits to local businesses and reinforcing our reputation as a vibrant events destination,” he said.

Locomotive 3265, built in 1902 in Manchester, is the only surviving example of its class to retain its original low frame and will run journeys to Branxton, as well as feature in the Great Train Race. The engine is described by organisers as a “striking maroon” locomotive.

The second headliner, 3526, is part of the Transport Heritage NSW collection and is known as “Nanny”. Built in 1917, the green locomotive will travel to Port Waratah and Paterson before lining up alongside 3265 in the Race.

Council said rail journey tickets would range from $35 to $92 depending on the experience, while diesel options including the CPH “Tin Hares” and the restored 621/721 Rail Motor, known as the “Red Rattler”, would be priced from $12 to $45.

Burton Automotive has renewed its naming rights sponsorship for 2026, continuing a long-running partnership with the festival. Dealer principal Joshua Walker said, “Norm Burton Senior OAM of Burton Automotive Group has been a proud supporter of Steamfest for many years and has always said that in order to move towards the future, it is incredibly important to understand where we came from.”

“Steam-powered trains were a lifeblood to community and industry in and around Maitland, and Steamfest does a fantastic job of showcasing this to our younger generations,” Walker said.

Beyond the rail program, organisers said the Bloomfield Steam Rally at Garnham Grounds would showcase antique machinery and working steam engines from across Australia, while “Steamfest After Dark” on Saturday evening would feature live music, food vendors and on-platform opportunities to explore the locomotives up close.

On Sunday 19 April, the Show ‘n’ Shine in Maitland Park is expected to include more than 500 classic vehicles, alongside food and live performances, with program updates to be issued via a festival newsletter and ticket sales to open on Monday 2 March.