19 January 2012, marks 125 years since The Overland’s maiden journey from Adelaide to Melbourne. To celebrate the 125 years of travel, Red Premium fares are on sale for just $125pp until 19 February!

Originally named The Intercolonial Express, the train began as exactly that – a fast and comfortable way to travel between the Victorian and South Australian colonies. The Intercolonial Express reduced travel time from a week via ship to a mere 18 hours by rail.

The establishment of a direct rail link required collaboration between the colonies but was known as the ‘Adelaide Express’ or the ‘Melbourne Express’ depending which side of the border was home. Guests underwent baggage checks, filled out customs declarations and paid duty on interstate goods at tightly controlled border crossings.  

The train was renamed The Overland in 1936 after the famous ‘Overlanders’ who travelled between Adelaide and Melbourne by horseback droving cattle.

Today, The Overland provides an economical, comfortable and convenient way to travel between Adelaide and Melbourne with three services running in each direction, each week. It also provides a vital transport link for regional communities.

Formerly a night time journey, The Overland now travels during daylight hours allowing passengers to enjoy a diverse range of landscapes; from rugged mallee scrubland to fields of golden crops, over vast open plains and through gently rolling hills.

“In 2007 The Overland underwent a $4 million upgrade which saw the introduction of new reclining seats with plenty of leg room and a stylish café carriage,” said Interim Chief Executive of Great Southern Rail, Russell Westmoreland.

“The Overland is the most comfortable way to travel between Adelaide and Melbourne. Guests can socialize in the onboard café or sit back and watch the scenery unfold from their roomy reclining seat.”

“With a baggage allowance of 40kg* and access right into Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station it is a relaxing, hassle-free journey,” said Russell.

There are two levels of service aboard The Overland; Red Service and Red Premium Service.

To mark the 125th anniversary Great Southern Rail has introduced a special one-way fare of $125pp in Red Premium (usually $144) from 19 January – 19 February. Red Seats are $97 one-way or $54 when ReadyRail specials are available. Pensioner discounts also apply.

* Maximum bag weight 20kg. Maximum of two bags per person.