Train and film enthusiasts are in for a rare treat this April as A Steam Train Passes, widely regarded as Australia’s finest railway film, returns to the big screen in Sydney and Canberra. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of its theatrical release in 2024, the acclaimed short film will be showcased in superb 4K resolution at a special gala event at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on Wednesday 2 April 2025, presented by Transport Heritage NSW and the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA). The event will see the premiere of a newly produced short documentary by Transport Heritage NSW, offering an exclusive look at the making of the film. Featuring lauded filmmakers Anthony Buckley, Dean Semler, David Haythornthwaite and George Dreyfus, with insights from renowned Australian director and producer George Miller, the documentary provides a deeper appreciation of the artistry behind this cinematic masterpiece and its creation. In addition, the gala will feature a screening of Western Endeavour (1970) and exclusive, never-before-seen footage from NFSA’s Jim Powe Collection, a significant archive of Australian train and tram film and audio recordings spanning the late 1960s to the 1990s, live commentated by NFSA Curator Jeff Wray.
“Few films have captured the romance and power of steam like A Steam Train Passes,” THNSW’s Head of Engagement David Bennett commented “The film not only played a vital role in preserving steam train operations in NSW but also helped cement 3801’s legendary status.”
Originally released in 1974, A Steam Train Passes offers a nostalgic and imaginative exploration of the legendary NSW steam locomotive 3801 and its role in Australians’ lives. Produced by Film Australia as part of the Outlook program, the short film won numerous international awards and continues to captivate audiences with its stunning cinematography and evocative soundtrack. The NFSA remastered the film in 4K in 2024.
“We’re delighted to work with Transport Heritage NSW to present this stunning 4K version of A Steam Train Passes, alongside never-before-seen footage from the Jim Powe Collection,” Meagan Loader, the NFSA’s Chief Curator commented ‘It’s a breath-taking reminder of the beauty of slow travel and being immersed in the landscape. It’s also an insight into the passion that so many have for these remarkable feats of engineering and innovation.’
NFSA will hold an additional screening of the film and its accompanying documentary at the Arc Cinema in Acton, ACT on Sunday 6 April.
Events:
- 2 April 2025 @ 6PM: Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, Cremorne NSW
- 6 April 2025 @ 1PM: Arc Theatre, Acton ACT – additional screening of documentary and film only