Puffing Billy Run

The Puffing Billy Run, officially known as the Puffing Billy Running Festival, is one of Australia’s most unique running events. Held in the scenic Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne, runners take on the challenge of racing against the historic Puffing Billy steam train through forests, rolling hills, railway crossings, and picturesque mountain landscapes. The festival combines a community running event with a beloved Victorian heritage attraction, creating an experience unlike a traditional road race. Proceeds from the event help support restoration and preservation projects for the historic Puffing Billy Railway.

The signature event is the famous 13.5 km Classic, where participants race from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park while two century-old steam locomotives travel alongside portions of the course. The weekend also includes a 5 km Family Fun Run and a Kids Dash, making it accessible to runners of all ages and abilities. The event village is centered around Emerald Lake Park and the Puffing Billy Railway’s Lakeside precinct.