By Derek Schlennstedt
Among the glamour of the flapper era where pearls and feathers, silk bow ties and braces are the fashion, there has been a murder on the Puffing Billy Express.
To those who are addicted to true crime documentaries and find themselves reading thrillers and mystery novels late into the night: it’s time to put your money where your mouth is and solve a crime yourself.
Not a real one, of course.
But at the Murder on the Puffing Billy Express experience, participants can get the thrill of discovering the identity of a murderer without having to get their hands dirty.
This winter is the perfect time to live out ‘Murder On The Orient Express’ dreams on Melbourne’s iconic Puffing Billy train.
Each Saturday night Puffing Billy steams into the wintery darkness of the Dandenong Ranges, and you are tasked with getting to know the players in this tale.
On-board, entrees will be served while participants are entertained by a talented theatre group who take guests on a journey of a murder mystery.
A hearty meal worthy of any private eye awaits at the Nobelius Packing Shed where the story continues to unfold.
A blazing log fire at the shed also adds to the atmosphere during the winter months.
Dinner includes a selection of roasts, vegetables, and salads and is the time when participants bring the accused to justice.
The Puffing Billy crew will then sound the whistle, calling guests back on board.
The return journey to Belgrave wraps up the evening, with tea, coffee, dinner chocolates and a complimentary glass of port served.
So this winter, visitors can dress up in 1920s raiment and experience an intriguing night of murder, mystery and suspense aboard Puffing Billy’s evening train.
