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Adelaide River
Railway Heritage Precinct

The Adelaide River Railway Heritage precinct displays much of the original equipment from the rail line originally built in the 1880's to service the Pine Creek goldfields.

You can't miss the Train and station beside the highway at Adelaide river

Restored Railway Station and Refreshment Room

Inside Adelaide River Station
Railway Oil Engine
Adelaide River Museum Train

Mouse over above images for enlargement

Railway Stations Rooms

The bridge over the Adelaide River was completed in 1888 and the line reached Pine Creek in 1889. It was extended to Katherine in 1917 and further south to Birdum Creek in 1929.

The dream of a rail link connecting the North and South of the continent would not be realized until 2004 when the first train travelled from Adelaide to Darwin.

Displays include old photos, information articles and a manual Telephone Exchange

Until it was officially closed in 1981, the rail played an important part in the NT. It's busiest period was during the Second World War when Adelaide River was a military base for both American and Australian armed forces.

Japanese bombers struck the area in October 1942 and again on 13 November which was the last bombing raid on the Australian mainland.

Displays include old photos, information articles and a manual Telephone Exchange

Rusting evidence of this wartime activity can be seen in the displays in the freight sheds with machine guns, ammunition, supply cases and other items from the period.

The rail siding at Snake Creek, just north of the town, was used as a RAAF depot as late as 1967.

Information and Equipment Displays.

Water Tower for Steam Trains

Iron ore deposits at Frances Creek provided another lifespan for the railway, which was upgraded to handle ore trains to Darwin for export to Japan.

Completed in 1970, this upgrade enabled the export to continue until 1974 when Cyclone Tracy caused massive damage to the port facilities

Enthusiastic volunteers have created many historic displays.

Extensive work by volunteers has restored and documented this rail history. The Friends of the North Australian Railway at Adelaide River Inc hopes to one day operate a heritage train between Adelaide River and Snake Creek.

A Donation of $5 for entry is requested to help provide materials for the ongoing restoration and presentation of historic items