Queensland's first train journey, from Ipswich to Bigges Camp, has been re-enacted to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Queensland Rail.

Hundreds turned out, some in period costume, to admire or board the restored 1865 A10 steam train.

After a one-and-a-half hour trip on Sunday morning, the train pulled into Grandchester, which was originally called Bigges Camp at the time of the first journey in 1865.

Descendants of those who were involved in the very first journey were also there as special guests.

As part of the celebrations, Grandchester station was adorned with historical railway artefacts and commemorative storyboards, with the celebration topped off with a cake befitting of a 150th birthday party.

Peter Turner's great grandfather John Smith was the first train driver in Queensland and took the train, Lady Bowen, on its first trip from Ipswich to Grandchester.

"Today's celebration is very historic," he said.

"It gives you a sense of pride."

[color=#000000][size=1]PHOTO:[/size][/color] Slaughter-Gruning train Lady Bowen travelled between Brisbane and Ipswich. (Supplied: Queensland Rail)

Matt Bushnell said he was privileged to drive today's train, which was adorned with a palm tree for good luck.

"[The train is] 150 years old - you can't go too fast, as she was designed to go faster than a horse and cart," he said.

On the inaugural service, hundreds turned out for the event, with Queensland Rail saying there was a luncheon, many toasts and a glittering railway ball in Ipswich.

The line between Ipswich and Grandchester had international significance when construction began in February 1864.

Queensland Rail's acting chief operating officer Martin Ryan said the contract to build the section of track was £86,900.

"Labourers were brought in from Europe to construct the line, working a 10-hour day in a Queensland climate much harsher than their homeland's for approximately 35 shillings a week," he said.

"The first locomotives to run on the line were also imported from England, costing £1,260 each."