After attracting a crowd of more than 50,000 in April last year, steam enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their tickets early for the 2018 event, to take place on April 14 and 15.

Locomotive 3642 is already locked in and organisers expect to announce a second steam loco soon.

“Last year we had visitors come from across the state and beyond to celebrate all things steam and enjoy one of the many steam train journeys on offer,” council’s coordinator events Adam Franks says.

“There are only a limited number of seats available for each trip, with many of the Steamfest journeys consistently selling out year after year, so we are encouraging people to get in early so they don’t miss out.”

Steam Journeys this year include trips to Paterson, Port Waratah Coal Loop, Branxton and, of course, the ever-popular Great Train Race. 

“One change to our ticketing this year is that you can actually select your seating preference online on the steam journeys,” Mr Franks adds.

“This will give our customers the chance to have a greater say in where they would prefer to sit.”

In addition to steam locomotive trips, the heritage diesels CHP1/CHP7 ‘Tin Hare’ and 621/721 ‘Red Rattler’ will be operating between Maitland and Paterson, there will be an impressive display of heritage steam equipment on the rally ground and the Show ‘n’ Shine is on again in Maitland Park on the Sunday, April 15.

For kids and big kids alike, Steamfest will also have a range of entertainment happening around the Maitland Station precinct including market stalls, face painting, “live” music and amusements. 

Tickets are available by going online at steamfest.com.au, phoning 4931 2877 or in person at the Maitland Visitor Information Centre.