It's a boon for Canberra's tourism operators but a little disappointing for local train spotters.
Journey Beyond, the same company than operates The Ghan train trip through the heart of Australia has added a new three-day journey, the Great Southern, between Adelaide and Brisbane, which will allow passengers to visit Canberra but the train won't actually visit the national capital.
The Great Southern, which is using the carriages from The Ghan, which does not travel in December and January, is due to arrive in Canberra region on December 7. Passengers are due to alight at Yass junction at 9.30am and then get back on board in Goulburn at 5.40pm.
Up to 214 passengers will then be ferried by bus to either Canberra to visit the national institutions or Murrumbateman for a food and wine trail.
Journey Beyond chief operating officer Luke Walker was thrilled with the new route.
"We're excited to be covering new territory with the Great Southern, including taking guests to the nation's capital, Canberra," he said.
There will be 16 departures between December 6 and January 27, bringing plenty of tourists to Canberra's doorstep.
The bright orange train has two locomotives and 28 carriages. Those travelling platinum class will have the luxury of a suite that transforms from loungeroom to bedroom. It also has its own ensuite. Champagne and chocolate are also part of the package that starts at $7049 per person. Cheaper packages start at $2069 per person.
