In the early days of operation it was at times known as the Western Australian Rail Transport Museum.

[5][6] The museum has the most comprehensive collection of heritage steam locomotives and rolling stock in Western Australia.

[7][8][9] Originally developed in 1969 and officially opened in November 1974 by the Western Australian Minister for Transport Ray O'Connor,[10] its collection comprises: The onsite museum building houses an archive that includes an online photograph collection covering most of Western Australian railway history.

[11][full citation needed] Various annual events have been held over time: The museum is also the location of the West Australian Model Railway Club.

[14] A related museum called South-West Rail and Heritage Centre is situated in Boyanup.