By Kath Gannaway
THE Yarra Valley is not usually promoted as a “frightening experience” but there is one exception.
The Yarra Valley Railway’s Halloween Ghost Train has become a must-do cult experience for a growing number of visitors with a ghoulish bent.
The event, now in its sixth year, has become a sell-out event with people riding the rails from Healesville railway station to experience the fright of their life as they make their way to the haunted tunnel.
Along the way, in the darkness, they encounter hair-raising pantomimes and scenes along the track and in the train.
Yarra Valley Railway president Brett Morton said the volunteers have almost as fun performing on the ghost train as the guests have in being scared out of their wits!
“They spend hours planning and preparing new and fantastic ways to bring this event to life,” he said.
“The event has formed a cult following and we encourage our guests to come in costume and really get into the spirit … if you’ll pardon the pun!”
The event now boasts a cast of almost 40 volunteers who artfully transform themselves into a horrifying number of ghosts, zombies, witches, werewolves and much more to bring to life the many and varied scenes along the 4.5km of track over the two nights.
Food and beverages will be available at the station kiosk.
The event is great fun for most people over five, with parental discretion advised for under-12s.
Fright nights are Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 October. Bookings are essential. P Dan O’Connor on O417 554 573 or email reservations@yvr.com .au.
Are you up for the dare … and the scare?
