DO your children like Thomas the Tank Engine? Are you encouraging them to learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics? Do you teach them to appreciate history too?

Well, you can do all of that at the Sydney Live Steam Locomotive Society’s Mini Trains at West Ryde! Just behind Coles West Ryde, on the third Saturday of the month, 3 miniature train tracjks with rides on trains pulled by miniature and real steam locomotives come alive for children and families to enjoy.

The layout even includes bridges, hills and tight corners, and all the trains can carry 3 or 4 and even up to 30 people at a time. There are of course the mandatory switch points along the tracks, lights, signal box, a few stations and a guard tower.

For train lovers, there is a turntable and maintenance area where the Society’s volunteers tinker with their trains too.

Entry is about $4 per adult and $2 per child. Each ride is also $2 per person. Families can have children’s birthday parties there. And everyone must wear enclosed shoes.

Although there is a kiosk, there is plenty of space around for a picnic too.

Entry is via the corner of Betts Street and Anthony Road in West Ryde. And for more information, please visit http://www.parraparents.com.au/things-to-do/west-ryde-mini-trains/