Launch of Spirit of Buda-dji Locomotive on Kuranda Scenic Railway

Press Release

Tuesday, 26 March, 2002

New Look for Tourism Icon 

Today marks another important milestone in the 110 year history of Tropical North Queensland’s world-class, Kuranda Scenic Railway.

At a special starlight ceremony on Barron Falls(near Kuranda) 150 guests viewed the unveiling of the first of three hand-painted locomotives depicting the local Aboriginal dreamtime legend of ‘Buda-Dji the Carpet Snake’.

Alongside the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage listed rainforests, the Kuranda Scenic Railway enjoys iconic status as one of Tropical North Queensland’s most significant attractions carrying up to half a million passengers each year.

According to the Manager of NQ Traveltrain, Gary Young this is no surprise. “Kuranda Scenic Railway is more than just a train journey.   Daily our passengers marvel at the natural beauty of the rainforest surroundings, the fantastic scenery and never cease to be amazed by the railway’s pioneer beginnings back in the late 1800’s.   With today’s launch of the ‘Buda-Dji’ locomotive we have paved the way for an even more enriching journey.   In symbolising the legends of our region’s indigenous people, ‘Buda-Dji’ introduces a fascinating cultural dimension to a service which celebrates its past while looking to the future.”

The totally reconditioned, eye-catching ‘Buda-Dji’ locomotive is bound to delight passengers when it commences service tomorrow.   It has been skilfully transformed into an artistic masterpiece. The original art is the work of local Aboriginal artist, George Riley – a descendant of the Ko Ko Mulurudji tribe of Mareeba, Mount Molloyand Mount Carbineregions.   Combining a rainforest-style of indigenous art and a contemporary feel, the design features a myriad of bright colours reflecting North Queensland’s tropical reef and rainforest.

Having commissioned the project, Gary Young talks passionately about the development of ‘Buda-Dji’ from concept to completion.   He firmly believes its introduction will have many positive new directions for the Kuranda Scenic Railway, North Queenslandand the future of region’s indigenous communities. “In the very least we hope our ‘Buda-Dji’ locomotive will open a window of understanding of the rich and varied cultural heritage of North Queensland,” said Gary.