Drysdale was buzzing on Saturday night with the launch of The Q Train, a progressive dinner train serving a six-course degustation menu.
The Q Train menu is complemented with local produce from farms and suppliers of the region.
“A true complement to the taste trail, and supporting local business – double bonus,” Marketing Co Co-ordinator Emma Atkinson said.
On Saturday night local suppliers, business owners, media and tourism representatives boarded the train at Drysdale to experience the true dinner train experience.
Award-winning chef Greg Egan served his modern Australian themed six-course menu with Asian influence as they travelled between Drysdale and Queenscliff.
Head Chef Greg Egan, winner of best chef and golden plate awards said: “The feedback already has been positive.
“People love the idea of going out for a quality meal while enjoying some scenic travel at the same time.” He has relished the opportunity to create a menu that not only showcases local produce, but can be cooked in the restricted environment that a kitchen on board a train presents.
Where did the idea begin?
A couple of years ago, two men who’d worked with trains for the better part of 50 years purchased several historic carriages from Queensland Rail.
They sought the expertise of a hospitality pundit and the team was born.
Greg said: “We’ve spent the last year or so refurbishing the old carriages, and have transformed a part of the old Sunlander into a new boutique rail restaurant called The Q Train. How’s that for recycling?
“If you live around the Bellarine area, you may have seen us working on restoring the carriages over the last 12 months.
“As long-term homeowners on the Bellarine Peninsula, we have dreamed of creating a restaurant train to showcase the beautiful Bellarine and Swan Bay scenery, whilst offering premium local food and beverages.
“The Q Train is the realisation of this and we are proud to share this vision with Geelong, The Bellarine and beyond.”
The Q Train will operate Thursday, Friday and Saturday from Drysdale Railway Station.
Book now at www.theqtrain.com.au.
