Australia's natural landscape is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with a myriad of plant and animal species that capture the imagination. Among these are some truly remarkable plants that remain hidden for much of the year, only to reveal themselves in a fleeting display of beauty. One such botanical wonder is the Elegant Hyacinth Orchid, a rare and captivating species that has recently caught the attention of Australians, thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of one local train driver.

Wil Kemp, who has been driving the Savannahlander train in regional Queensland for 13 years, is not just a train driver but also an avid nature enthusiast. With a background in zoo work and a passion for native wildlife and plants, Wil has become an impromptu ambassador for the hidden gems of the Australian outback. As he navigates the train from Cairns to the small town of Forsayth, he shares his extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna with his passengers, many of whom are tourists eager to learn about the region's natural wonders.



The Savannah country of northern Australia, often perceived as a vast expanse of grass and eucalyptus trees, is home to the Elegant Hyacinth Orchid. This plant leads an almost entirely subterranean existence, surfacing for just a week or two each year to bloom in a spectacular fashion. The rarity of its appearance is matched by its unique biological characteristics, which make it impossible to cultivate at home.


Unlike most plants, the Elegant Hyacinth Orchid has no leaves and does not photosynthesize. Instead, it relies on a symbiotic relationship with a specific fungus in the soil. This fungus acts as a conduit, transferring nutrients from the soil to the orchid's roots. Without this fungal partner, the orchid cannot survive, which is why attempts to grow it outside its natural habitat are doomed to fail. The removal of the orchid from the wild not only disrupts this delicate balance but also ensures the plant's demise.



Wil's fascination with the Elegant Hyacinth Orchid is so profound that he has even featured it on his custom-made fishing shirt, which he proudly wears while pointing out the flower to his passengers. His enthusiasm is infectious, and it's clear that he relishes the opportunity to highlight the extraordinary botanical life that thrives alongside the train tracks.

The Savannahlander train's season is short-lived, with only a few journeys remaining before the wet season renders parts of the track impassable. Yet, the discovery of the Elegant Hyacinth Orchid is not an isolated incident. This season has been particularly spectacular for rare orchid sightings across Australia. In South Australia, government officials were thrilled to find the bayonet spider orchid, a species confirmed to exist at only two locations worldwide. Meanwhile, in Tasmania, locals were treated to the stunning sight of fire orchids, which typically bloom in abundance after hot fires.

These botanical discoveries serve as a reminder of the incredible diversity and fragility of Australia's ecosystems. They underscore the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect these natural habitats from destruction. For those lucky enough to witness these rare species in their natural environment, it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression.



As we marvel at the wonders of Australia's native flora, we're reminded that some of the most extraordinary things in life are ephemeral and cannot be owned or replicated. They can only be appreciated in the moment, in the places where they belong.
Have you encountered any of Australia's rare and beautiful plant species on your travels or in your local area? We'd love to hear about your experiences and any photos you may have captured. Share your stories with us and join the conversation about Australia's unique natural heritage.