The Ghan, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Airing Date: Mar 8th, 2004
The Old Ghan story begins in 1878 at Port Augusta, South Australia when, with picks and shovels, men began work on a railway planned to snake its way to Darwin. The railway grew in stages. Services to Quorn began in December 1879. Ten years later the Great Northern Railway, as it was then known, ground to a halt at Oodnadatta for lack of money. It was another 38 years before trains finally wheezed into Alice Springs, and today, it's made the full journey all the way to Darwin.
You don't have to be a train enthusiast to enjoy the Darwin to Adelaide Ghan trip - all 2979 kilometres of it. It's a fantastic way to meet people and enjoy Australia's incredible red centre while learning a few things, like how The Ghan got its name.
Guests travelling on The Ghan have the opportunity to take off-train tours when the train stops in Katherine and Alice Springs. At Katherine, you can take a two hour boat ride through the spectacular 25 million year old Katherine Gorge canyons.
At Alice Springs passengers can visit the 13,000 hectare Alice Springs Desert Park. Here you can see the desert's amazing flora and fauna, or try your hand at spear throwing.
The Ghan offers different levels of accommodation. At the budget end there is the Red Kangaroo day/night seat. You get bathroom facilities at the end of the cabin as well as a shared lounge. The Red Kangaroo sleeper offers comfortable, air-conditioned twin share cabins, or passengers can upgrade to the Gold Kangaroo service and choose from a twin or single cabin. Twin cabins have a three seater couch and private ensuite bathroom.
Whatever you choose, you won't be disappointed with the food or service. The changing menus often feature native Australian cuisine, and excellent wines and beverages are available for purchase to complement your meal. Vegetarian, children's and special dietary meals can also be accommodated.
The facts:
One way with the Red Kangaroo service starts from $440 for adults and $198 for children. Children under four years travel free. Meals are extra.
One way with the Gold Kangaroo service costs from $1740 including meals.
Great Southern Railway
Tel: 13 21 47
Off-train tours range from $18 to $145 each.
Katherine Gorge River Cruise
Alice Springs Desert Park
Prices correct at 08/03/04
