Fans of historic locomotives are in for a dream weekend of steam when Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest returns to Maitland on 13 and 14 April 2024.

This year's program will see New South Wales' largest and most powerful steam locomotive, the 6029 'The Garratt', as well as the 1917 built 3526 at Maitland Station, a range of steam and heritage train  excursions, the Great Train Race, an antique machinery display and more than 500 classic cars on show at the Rally Ground.

Now in its 36th year, Hunter Valley Steamfest is expected to attract thousands of visitors and train enthusiasts, with Maitland business Burton Automotive continuing as Steamfest's title partner for the twelfth consecutive event.

'It is a pleasure and a privilege to have supported Hunter Valley Steamfest for more than a decade,' says Burton Automotive Dealer Principal Norm Burton OAM.

'It is a big part of our business and commitment to the event's success for the people of Maitland.

'Steam trains and Maitland are a big part of my life and history and I love to see the joy and wonder on children's faces when they see the steam trains, just as I did when I was young,' Mr Burton says.

Steamfest's Rail Program, presented by Australian Rail Track Corporation, will see a host of rail  excursions to various destinations in the Hunter Valley for the event, including Paterson, Branxton, Newcastle, Mount Thorley and the Port Waratah Coal Loop as well as the famous Great Train Race.

'Hunter Valley Steamfest is one of our region's biggest events and we are looking forward to joining our local communities in celebrating all things rail and steam,' says Australian Rail Track Corporation Acting Hunter Valley Group Executive Clinton Crump says.

'We are excited to once again be Principal Rail Sponsor of Hunter Valley Steamfest and to host the 
famous ARTC Great Train Race, which will see the two iconic locomotives compete side by side 
against a Tiger Moth aircraft.'

The Rally Ground, sponsored by the Bloomfield Group, will transform into a steam lovers haven and offer a glimpse into days gone by with antique machinery from across Australia, including traction and  portable engines.

'As a local company with a rich history, including our Kings Engineering business that recently celebrated its 100th birthday, and our Bloomfield Mine that has been supporting the Maitland community for over 85 years, Bloomfield is delighted to be sponsoring this historical event,' says Bloomfield Mine Operations Manager Brad Donoghoe.

On Sunday, the annual Show 'n' Shine, presented by Altapac, will feature over 500 classic cars, accompanied by food stalls and live entertainment for the whole family.

'At Altapac, we're all about bringing families together for unforgettable adventures and journeys,' says Altapac General Manager Tom Lacey.

Tickets for the Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest Rail Program presented by ARTC will be on sale from 12.00pm AEDT Tuesday 12 March. For more information, visit www.steamfest.com.au