THIS year's train journey to Parkes might have been a little longer, but eight festivalgoers from Melbourne have given it a huge thumbs up.
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The long-time friends flew into Sydney and then caught the Blue Suede Express from Central Station to Parkes on Thursday.
Cathie Schmidt said the journey may have been longer due to recent bushfire damage to railway infrastructure in the Blue Mountains but it was just as fun.
"Our carriage was very comfortable. We were spoilt for extra chairs because of a few late cancellations due to the fires," she said.
"The people on board were just so friendly. Everyone was just there for fun, there were smiles all round."
Despite a few empty seats, Ms Schmidt said the party was quick to start once the journey was underway.
Elvis performers rocked the carriage and everyone danced and sang their guts out.
- Cathie Schmidt
"The bar opened with a pop of a cork and off it went," she said.
"Elvis music played the whole way.
"Elvis performers rocked the carriage and everyone danced and sang their guts out.
"We even had a man called Craig who could sing beautifully ... he would jump on and keep the party rolling in between the Elvis performers."
Ms Schmidt said her group were thoroughly impressed with the train service and its staff.
"Special mention to the incredible train staff who are volunteering their time to make money to continue the restoration of the historic carriages and engines we had the privilege of being on. They were fantastic," she said.
"We were sad to hear that because of the change of route being longer they would not make any money towards the refurbishment because of the extra fuel needed.
"I believe this is a cause that I hope could get some extra funding donations or a tourism grant so this wonderful piece of history keeps in rolling."