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Date
Saturday 28 September to Sunday 26 January 2025
Time
Open during State Library opening hours:
Monday: 9am to 5pm
Tuesday: 9am to 7pm
Wednesday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 12 to 5pm

Please note we are closed on public holidays.
Location
State Library Gallery, Spence Wing, (Ground floor)
Cost
Free, no booking required
About the presenter

National Archives of Australia 

Questions?
For any questions regarding the event, please reach out to the National Archives of Australia SA Office:
Phone: 08 9470 7580
State Library Supports

All aboard for a journey through time!

These school holidays, dive into the captivating history of the Trans-Australian Railway at the Camel Trains to Steel Wheels exhibition. Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of fun activities, including:

  • creative fun: train and camel colouring in
  • look in close: go on a picture hunt within the exhibition and see what you can discover
  • book nook: cosy up with a collection of train-themed children’s books
  • test your knowledge: for the older children and adults take on the Trans-Australian Railway Intelligence Test, first published in 1937, and see how much you know!

    NAA School children wave goodbye

Image: School children wave goodbye during a stop at Cook on the inaugural run of the Indian Pacific 1970 NAA: A1200, L86280 

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.

NAA train
  • exhibition

Camel trains to steel wheels

life on the Trans-Australian Railway

Saturday 24 August 2024 to Sunday 26 January 2025

Free entry

NAA train
  • Event series
  • National Archives of Australia - SA Selections

Curator talk: Camel trains to steel wheels

Presented by National Archives of Australia

Thursday 10 October 2024
Thursday 14 November 2024
Thursday 12 December 2024
Thursday 16 January 2025

Free, booking required