national steam centre, scoresby

We have a beautiful sleepy museum that is a real find and a perfect place to explore with little kids. The National Steam Museum is all about the classic machinery, some old rusty diggers and big, heavy things. Each Sunday you can explore the buildings and displays, seeing how things used to be done in the old days. There are a couple of interactive exhibits and buttons to push but it is more of a “WOW - look at that big engine” type of place.

The best way to see the outdoor displays (it’s a couple of footy fields from one site to the other), is on the back of the mini rail. Board from the Scoresby platform and travel in a one way loop around the centre. The fun experience of being on the back of a mini train is such a joy as the wind sweeps through your hair and kids giggle along. Train run every Sunday and are a bargain - $3 a ride.

If you happen to save your visit to the last Sunday of the month, it is the monthly running day - when some of the displays really do come to life. The entire operation is run by passionate volunteers and they love having visitors and sharing their expertise.

Mamma’s Special Mention: The Centre has a huge celebration over the Labour Day Weekend aptly titled Steamfest! Everything from models of trains, heavy machinery, visiting enthusiasts and vintage cars will be on display. You’ll see young and old exploring the grounds in Scoresby over the three day event.