Goulburn is one of Australia’s oldest inland cities, known for its grand heritage buildings, historic streets and well-preserved Victorian architecture. And this weekend, the town is taking its fascination with the past a step further. The annual Steampunk Goulburn fair is returning for two days, bringing elaborate Victorian-inspired costumes, working 19th-century steam engines, quirky market stalls and live entertainment to the Goulburn Historic Waterworks. Set beside the Wollondilly River, the event combines the machinery and fashion of the industrial era with a playful, futuristic twist. Visitors can explore the historic site, watch costume parades and enjoy a packed programme of unusual activities. Here’s what to expect this weekend.
What to expect at Steampunk Goulburn
One of the biggest highlights at the event is the chance to step inside the historic Pumphouse Museum, where two original 19th-century stationary steam engines will be on display. Visitors can see the machinery in operation and learn how the site once supplied water to Goulburn, with guides on hand to explain its history.
Elsewhere visitors can expect Victorian-era military re-enactments, vintage games and even tea duelling, a light-hearted competition where participants dunk biscuits into cups of tea and attempt to eat them without breaking them. There are also parasol duels, along with a free miniature train running between the entrance, market area and museum.
The costume parades are another highlight, with participants showing off everything from elaborate Victorian gowns and top hats to leather accessories, brass goggles and imaginative mechanical creations. Saturday’s parade focuses on adults, while children and pets get their turn on Sunday. Visitors are welcome to dress for the occasion, although costumes aren’t required to attend. For those keen to browse, the markets offer an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, handmade leather goods, jewellery, chocolates and Victorian-inspired accessories. Look out for pocket watches, decorative goggles, unusual headpieces and steampunk-themed homewares, alongside food vendors serving snacks, drinks and meals throughout the day.
Key details
- What: Steampunk Goulburn 2026
- Where: Goulburn Historic Waterworks, Marsden Weir, Fitzroy Street, Goulburn
- When: Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Cost: Ticketed event; check the official website for admission prices and bookings
- Costume parade: Adults – Saturday at 1pm (register 11am–12.30pm); children and pets – Sunday at 11.20am (register before 11.10am)
- Parking: Limited street parking near the venue. A shuttle runs from the Goulburn Mulwaree Council car park at Bourke and Clifford streets every 15–20 minutes
- Shuttle times: First departure at 9.15am both days; final return at 4pm Saturday and 2pm Sunday
Getting there
Goulburn is around a 2-hour drive southwest of Sydney via the M5 and Hume Highway. The Goulburn Historic Waterworks is a short drive from the town centre, but parking at the venue is limited. Visitors are encouraged to use the event shuttle from the Goulburn Mulwaree Council car park at the corner of Bourke and Clifford streets. Alternatively, NSW TrainLink services run from Sydney to Goulburn Station, with the event shuttle pick-up point around a 15-minute walk from the station. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
