Ipswich a day trippers paradise over the long weekend
24 April 2024
Ipswich is set to become a day trippers paradise over the upcoming long weekend as the annual Planes, Trains and Autos Festival roars to life.
The festival celebrates all things aviation, rail and automotive with events on all three days of the Labour Day long weekend with only limited tickets left for the main event held at the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops on Saturday 4 May.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said locals and visitors will be spoilt for choice this weekend with action across the whole region.
“New data from Tourism Research Australia show day trips were up considerably in 2023 to nearly 1.5 million visits. The word is spreading that Ipswich has something to offer for everyone,” Mayor Harding said.
“Now in its fourth year the Planes, Trains and Auto festival has established itself as one of Ipswich’s favourite festivals, paying tribute to our city being a defence hub and giving a nod to our past manufacturing history.
“From the thrills of the main event at the Workshops to family-friendly events across the region, there is plenty to do in Ipswich over the long weekend, so plan ahead, take the day and explore everything Ipswich has on show.”
The festival’s central event, Fully Charged, is expected to draw up to 8000 people to the Rail Workshops on Saturday.
Mayor Harding said the museum grounds will be packed to the brim with stunning air performances, roving entertainment and exhibitors sharing their love of aviation, rail, cars and more.
“Planes, Trains and Autos has so much to offer with action over the entire weekend,” Mayor Harding said.
“The ever-popular classic car Park and Pose event in the heart of Ipswich Central will be held on Saturday, complementing Fully Charged at the Workshops.
“The Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway will operate diesel train rides throughout Saturday, while a short drive out from Ipswich Central, the Grandchester Model Live Steam Association is running locomotives on Friday and Sunday.
“After the adrenaline-filled rush of Saturday’s event, car enthusiasts can also meander out to the stunning historic venue Woodlands of Marburg to join Queensland Retro Cruise for a cars and coffee meet on Sunday.
“You can then finish the weekend on Monday at the Queensland Retro Picnic at Evan Marginson Park, featuring hot rods, classic and muscle cars and bikes paired with delicious street food and live music.”
There are limited tickets left for the Saturday Fully Charged event starting at $5 for children and family passes from $20 at www.ipswichfestivals.com.au/planes-trains-autos/.
The 2024 Planes, Trains & Autos is presented by Ipswich City Council with support from Tourism and Events Queensland, Queensland Museum Rail Workshops, Royal Australian Air Force, Alstom, Brisbane Airport Corporation, Defence Health, Bremer Ford, HALO Rentals, 9 News Queensland, Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway, Ipswich Waste Services and Ipswich Art Gallery.