A group of young people in New South Wales were recently treated to a ride through history, swapping their everyday routines for a private train trip from Campbelltown to Albion Park to visit the Historic Aircraft Restoration Society Aviation (HARS) Museum.
Kookaburra Kids, a non-profit organisation that supports children and teenagers impacted by family mental illness, teamed up with Sydney Rail Service and Rail First, Australia’s number one locomotive and wagon leasing operator, to organise the fun day out.
Led by Rail First’s diesel locomotives, each carriage of the special “Kooka Train” showcased life through the 20th century, giving the young passengers the chance to travel through rail heritage.
Then at the Aviation Museum, the group immersed themselves in Australia’s aviation history, learning through memorabilia and stories of the past.
However, it was the connections formed along the way that truly made the day.
A spokesperson for Kookaburra Kids said: “Surrounded by others who share similar life experiences, our Kookaburra Kids had the chance to build lasting friendships, share their stories, and support one another in a meaningful way.”
Rail First has had an ongoing relationship with Kookaburra Kids since 2014, when Rail First was known as CFCL Australia.
Beata Lipman, CEO of Rail First, said the company was delighted to be able to facilitate the kids’ recent day out.
“Kookaburra Kids is an unsung hero in the world of children who have parents with mental illness,” she said.
“Working together with Kookaburra Kids and the generous sponsors, we provided a big day out where young children could experience trains and planes, being able to take back home the experience of riding a train through Sydney and the Royal National Park, as well as sitting on a retired Qantas 747.”
Lipman extended her gratitude to Kookaburra Kids and HARS volunteers, Sydney Rail Services drivers who volunteered their time and expertise to operate the train, and to the following sponsors: PowerRail Australia, NTR Rail Equipment and Rail Industry Supplies.
“Thank you to all involved for an unforgettable day.”
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