Pearn’s Steam World is the biggest collection of steam engines in the Southern Hemisphere! Located in Westbury, this museum is a wonderland for anyone curious about history, machinery, and of course, all things steam!
The Passion of the Pearn Family
The museum is run entirely by volunteers and family members dedicated to preserving Tasmania’s agricultural heritage. Learn about the Pearn family who, in the 1950s, recognized the end of the steam era and began collecting these magnificent machines. Their passion for history and preservation ensures these giants of the past are enjoyed by generations to come.
Pearns Steam World
Things to do in Tasmania
Marvel at Gigantic Engines
Step back in time and imagine a world powered by steam. At Pearns Steam World, over 200 major exhibits await you and your family.
Kids will be amazed by the sheer size of some of the steam trains engines! For example, the Fowler Engine No 15141, a massive 16HP winding engine built in 1918, weighs over 20 tons! That’s like the weight of 4 elephants! Many of the exhibits are beautifully restored and can be viewed up close. Imagine the pistons pumping and the gears turning as these incredible machines once powered farms and factories.
You can also keep your little engineers engaged with some of the interactive exhibits. Learn how steam engines work through fun demonstrations and displays. Perhaps they can even try their hand at a replica steam whistle or operate a miniature steam engine model!
Steam-Powered Machine Collections
Pearn’s Steam World showcases a diverse collection of steam-powered machinery that once played a vital role in Tasmanian life.
See threshing machines, used to separate grain from chaff, and imagine the bustling harvest seasons of the past. Spot a charming steam launch, the “Whip O’ Will,” and picture families enjoying leisurely cruises on calm lakes.
Let your little ones hop on the restored fire engine and pretend to be a brave firefighter! Look out for fun fact signs scattered throughout the museum to learn interesting tidbits about each exhibit. Did you know that the very first car ever built was powered by steam?
Virtual Tour
Can’t make it to Tasmania in person? Explore one of the main galleries with their 360-degree virtual tour available on their website. This allows you to explore one of the main galleries at your own pace, navigating around the incredible steam engines and getting a good feel for the museum’s layout. Learn about the history, function, and significance of each machine with informative text or even short video clips.
Gift Shop Treasures
Before you leave, visit the Pearn’s Steam World shop and pick up a souvenir to remember your visit. For the budding engineer, there’s a wide selection of miniature steam engine models. These detailed replicas come in various sizes and complexities, allowing kids to bring a piece of steam power home. You can also show your love for steam with fun and quirky t-shirts, hats, and bags featuring original artwork of steam-powered characters and machines.
