Looking the part ... Queensland rail guard Mick Saffioti, right, and a Steamfest volunteer, bound for Grandchester. Photo: supplied

With a firebox full of coal, the boiler churning and a toot of the horn, Queensland's rail journey began on July 31, 1865.

That humble first trip between Ipswich and Bigge's Camp was re-enacted for rail enthusiasts on Sunday, including descendants of those on the original journey.

Queensland Rail's A10 steam train – the oldest operational steam locomotive in Australia – arrived at Grandchester station just after 10am, with two historic wooden carriages in tow.

Crowds gather to mark the 150th anniversary. Photo: supplied

Acting chief operating officer Martin Ryan said construction on a 35 kilometre line between Ipswich and Grandchester (first known as "Bigge's Camp" after pioneer pastoralist Frederick Bigge) began in February 1864.

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"The first rail line used a narrower gauge of 1067mm to help manage costs and when the 38.5 kilometre stretch was completed in 1865 it was the first main line of its type in the world and was quickly adopted by many international railways," Mr Ryan said.

"The contract to build the section of track was worth £86,900 and labourers were brought in from Europe to construct the line, working a ten hour day in a Queensland climate much harsher than their homeland's for approximately 35 shillings a week.

The day marked 150 years since the first train trip in Queensland. Photo: supplied

"The first locomotives to run on the line were also imported from England, costing £1260 each."

Mr Ryan said a public holiday was declared on July 31, 1865 to mark the opening.

"Hundreds of people lined the railway line and attended Bigges Camp station for the inaugural service, where they enjoyed a luncheon and the drinking of many toasts before they celebrated at a glittering railway ball in Ipswich," he said.

Guests on Sunday included descendants of original passengers, and many others in period costume.

A large birthday cake celebrating both the line and the A10 steam train's 150 birthday was cut and served to passengers and onlookers.

Rail Back on Track spokesman Robert Dow said more than 13,000 kilometres of railway had been built in Queensland since 1865.

"Rail was the transport mode that opened up Queensland and Australia," he said.

"Congratulations to all involved in the 150 years of continuous operation of rail services in Queensland and best wishes for the celebrations."

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