Rhythm n Rail Incorporated
ABN: 78108499275
INC1501373
During the second weekend in May(1) of each year the small township of Junee transforms into a hive of activity with over 4,000 visitors flocking to the town from throughout the region and beyond to join in the celebration of Junee’s unique rail heritage and to dance to the rhythm of the tracks.
On arrival in Junee visitors can be side-tracked to the left, right and centre. Their choices are immense, ranging from the main stage featuring a variety of artists, to the local busking sessions, to working and static model railway exhibitions around town, to wandering through numerous market stalls.
Climb aboard the double decker bus which has been restored by local members of the Omnibus Preservation Society for a circuit tour of Junee viewing all of Junee’s most historical landmarks which includes Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory, Broadway Museum, Roundhouse Museum, Monte Cristo Homestead and the heritage hotels and buildings that abound throughout the town.
The Festival is a community-organised major event which has contributed to the local economy; driving growth, expenditure and showcasing local businesses.
From its inauguration in 2008, the Festival program has grown and so has its attendance from 2,000 to 4,000 in five years and was also the winner of the NSW Inland tourism festival for 2014. Each year the Festival delivers its beloved rail and rhythm themed activities but continues to grow by creating new and innovative activities that broadens the market.
In 2014, the Junee Rhythm n Rail Festival was the winner of the NSW Inland Tourism “Community Festivals and Events” Award.
The next Rhythm n Rail Festival will be held in Junee over the Second weekend of May 2020.
Our Vision Statement
To develop a highly regarded annual event that celebrates Junee by showcasing local talent, architecture and attractions in the theme of rhythm and rail.
Our Mission Statement
The Rhythm n Rail Festival will attract visitors from across Australia to celebrate Junee, its talent and its heritage. It will increase visitation and an economic boost to Junee Shire, and engage the local community.
Committee 2018/19
B: Harry Simpson, Kate Hinds, John Hunter
F: Helen Simpson, Leasa Toll, Margaret Cutler
Vice President: Margaret Cutler
Treasurer: —
Secretary: Kate Hinds
Ordinary Member: John Hunter
Ordinary Member: Harry Simpson
Ordinary Member: Helen Simpson
Festival Patron – The Hon. Tim Fischer AC
Born in Lockhart, Mr Fischer’s love of trains began as a small boy and developed into a lifelong passion. Throughout his decorated career, Mr Fischer has remained connected to the rail industry, holding many related positions and acting as Patron for a number of not-for-profit rail organisations.
In his role as Patron, Mr Fischer officially opened the inaugural Junee Rhythm n Rail Festival at the Grand Opening event on Friday 2 March, 2008. He participated in the festivities over the weekend and has provided advice and recommendations on the Festival’s future.
“It is a privilege to step up for this good cause, and the Festival in Junee is building nicely due to all that is on show and available to ride,” Mr Fischer said.
“The 2008 Festival is just ahead of the 50th Anniversary running of a special version of the Southern Aurora through Junee Junction, again affirming the key historic role of Junee. I encourage people to book early for the key events and look forward to seeing everyone during the Festival,” he said.
Sadly, Mr Fischer passed away on August 22, 2019. He will always be remembered by us for his love of trains and for his support of our festival.
Contact Us…
Please use our Contact Form to get in touch with us.
Getting to Junee
Junee is located in the Riverina Area of New South Wales, Australia.
It is 40km north of Wagga Wagga and 220km from Canberra. It is the halfway point between Melbourne and Sydney, when travelling via the Olympic Highway.
The main Sydney–Melbourne train service stops at Junee daily. The Sydney–Griffith services also stops at Junee four days a week.
Notes
- Originally the Festival was held over the First Weekend of March, then after a couple of years of operation, it was re-scheduled to the Second Weekend of March to take advantage of potential visitors from Canberra and Victoria over their Labour Day long weekends. As of 2020, the Festival will be held during the Second Weekend of May.