Margate Train

The Margate Train site consists of a plinthed steam locomotive, carriages, and two sheds. The locomotive is MA3, a Tasmanian Government Railways MA Class from 1952.^[1] The carriages consist of Articulated Country Saloon (ACS) carriage #1, an SS class suburban carriage, and a DP Class railmotor.^[2] Following the cessation of passenger rail transport in Tasmania, the vehicles were sold to private buyers.

The train was originally a roadside park, and was retained in original red livery. Sometime after 1987, the locomotive and carriages were painted black and brown respectively.^[3] None of the rolling stock operated in such livery.

Contrary to some tourist information, the steam engine never hauled the Tasman Limited service, but ACS carriage #1 was purpose-built for this task which operated until 1978.^[4]

MA3 was one of four M Class locomotives converted for better operation on steeply graded sections by fitting surplus Australian Standard Garratt 4'0" driving wheels.

The Margate Train currently houses a variety of retail businesses including arts and crafts, bric-a-brac, a specialist book exchange, a collectible toys carriage and a buffet car specialising in pancakes, hence the Margate Train's local nickname, the Pancake Train. Nearby is a large antiques and second hand warehouse, located in an old Henry Jones IXL apple packing shed.