CQU Melbourne International Campus client services arranged an end-of-term excursion on the popular Puffing Billy steam train, trailing through the scenic and enchanting Dandenong Mountains, complemented by beautiful Melbourne spring weather.

This was a relaxed and intimate assembly of MIC staff and students, none of whom had previously undertaken this odyssey.

The group arrived in ample time and enjoyed traditional sweets to celebrate the Diwali festival.

There were clearly no regrets in missing out on the Diwali celebrations back at the campus.

The entourage had an entire carriage to themselves and enjoyed the exhilarating views.

There was never a shortage of waving bystanders along this journey.

“Australians are so friendly”, one student commented.

A picnic lunch followed at Lakeside Park. The assembly shared their home-cooked meals, enjoying a plethora of cuisines and dishes.

Many recipes were exchanged on this occasion. This was followed by paddle-boating in the lake which proved to be more strenuous than many had anticipated.

The final destination was Grant’s picnic ground where native parrots never recoiled from the picnic offered by the MIC cohort.