DISCOVER ALICE SPRINGS 2025. Single. Combining over 90 years of history with luxurious design, comfortable cabins and world class dining. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD) and are inclusive of GST. Dates & Prices; Highlights; Itinerary; What's Included; Specials; Dates &. From $21,665 PP . Ghan Train Adelaide to Darwin (Gold Class) All Flights (e. 3 or 4 Days The Ghan Rail Journey 2024. Tour Kakum National Park, one of West Africa’s surviving tropical rainforests, or visit Kumasi, the seat of the Ashanti empire whose. Choose your route option: ADELAIDE TO BRISBANE. Travel the Indian Pacific from Adelaide to Sydney. GHAN GOLD TWIN CABIN PHOTOS: Ghan Rail Journey Images for Gold Twin cabins, bathroom, amenities. Gold Premium cabins available from December 2024. If you are having difficulty in viewing or amending your booking, please contact our Travel Centre on 1800 703 357 in Australia or +61 8 8213 4401 outside of Australia (CST Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6:00pm and. Register for Platinum Service Double or Twin Cabin for 2024. com. The Ghan Holiday Packages 2023 & 2024 can be found by clicking on the images below for each rail journey and destination. That’s how today’s train got its name – The Ghan. GOLD SERVICE SINGLE. GHAN PLATINUM SERVICE CABINS: Ghan rail journeys Platinum service cabins. The Ghan Transfers. Book Now. Call Now -1300 872 465 GIVE ME A QUOTE! GHAN PENSIONER PRICES 2021 & 2022: senior discounts & specials, best Ghan rail journey prices. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD). 8202 4589. Ghan rail bookings call 1300 799 758Get amazing Ghan Pensioner Prices 2021 & 2022 with BlueSun Going and Kimberley Boat Cruising. Children 0-3 free in existing bedding. 20pm. Ghan with Adelaide and Darwin All-Inclusive. Indian Pacific. The Ghan, Apr -Jun 2024. Prices depend on a date and are subject to change without notice. 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD). Perth to Sydney/Sydney to Perth: 2023: November. nights. note - reservations are currently available to be made up until dec 31, 2024. These rates are stated below. Do you wish to travel Platinum Service on The Ghan, Indian Pacific or Great Southern. Gold Single Everyday Fare $ 1,925. 2025 Fares; 2024 Fares; 2023 Fares;. Forfeit 20% of booking price. An all-inclusive rail holiday, travel between Darwin and Alice Springs on a one-of-a-kind adventure. February 2024 . Prices are subject to change. $2. These are a 4-day and 3-night southern bound adventure taking you through Coober Pedy. ADELAIDE > ALICE SPRINGS > DARWIN; Operates March to November* Sunday: 12. The cabin has a three-quarter-size double bed plus a fold-down upper berth and a lounge area. Settle into The Ghan’s gentle rhythm as you travel through the country and immerse yourself in the Northern Territory’s breathtaking natural wonders on this spectacular 11-day journey. Travel aboard The Ghan between Darwin and Adelaide on this all-inclusive journey. 30 April 2024 14 May 2024 2 July 2024. Single Supplement is an additional $330 per single. Guide price from £8,865 pp incl. 26 to 29 June 2024. Be one of the first to book our GHAN 90 YEAR ANNIVERSARY JOURNEY. 16. The Ghan’s journey takes three unforgettable days and two nights while the brand new Ghan Expedition gives you more time to enjoy Australia – four days and three nights, conveniently travelling overnight so you experience more first hand discoveries. The Great Southern options include Platinum, Gold Suite, Gold Premium, Gold Twin or Gold Single Service. ADELAIDE TO ALICE SPRINGS 2023. Pre register with us and we will ensure your Platinum Cabin is secured. |. Join Journey Beyond on one of 45 rail journeys on board The Ghan, Indian Pacific or Great Southern this season. tour dates . The registrations can be made by contacting Great Southern Rail on 1800 888 417 or by sending Senior card details and personal addresses along with photocopies of the card and ID proof – such as driver’s licence – to Great Southern Rail, Seniors Concession Travel, PO Box 490, Hindmarsh, South Australia, 5007. The Pension Plan price prediction for 2025 is currently between $ 0. 18 Nights. Please ask us for assistance. Cancellation within 14 days of. Immersive Off Train Experiences included. 2% in 2021, due to higher spending. September, October, November 2024. 00pm (ACST) Saturday & Sunday 9. 00pm (ACST) Saturday & Sunday 9. Children 0-3 free in existing bedding. Monday – Friday 8. BOOKING PERIOD 10 APRIL 2024 – 31 DECEMBER 2024 1. Prices for GOLD SUPERIOR & PLATINUM SERVICE cabins are available on request. The railway grew in stages over time and also began to grow in prominence. Home / Packages / Adelaide to Alice Springs 2024 . Off-train experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy. Australia is a land of contrasts, from vibrant cities to remote landscapes, inviting exploration. Further conditions apply. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD). All Ghan off-train activities are included, like Alice Springs, Katherine Gorge and Marla. Emblazoned with the striking Wedge-Tailed Eagle motif that symbolises the scope, range and significance of this epic 4,352Km transcontinental crossing, the Indian Pacific truly is a journey of contrasts. 00. South Australia Wine and Wildlife 2024 From $6,715 pp . 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. Overall not the best of experiences for me especially when you factor in the price. Outback Spirit. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The Ghan. A journey aboard the iconic Indian Pacific train will whisk you between Adelaide and Perth in comfort and style. 2024 Packages Choose from our expertly curated holiday packages to further connect with the unique locations the Great Southern travels through. Darwin to Adelaide (April to October inclusive) - Coast to coast, through the fiery Red Centre, experience Australia at its dramatic best. Monday – Friday 8. It departs Adelaide on Friday at 9am and arrives in Brisbane on Sunday at 4. Heart of Australia. The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 3. Our 2024 season is selling fast, with rail journeys and holiday packages on the Great Southern. Unbeatable China. INDIAN PACIFIC 2024 SENIOR DISCOUNTS. Cabin Luggage - one piece of hand luggage plus a garment bag, cabin bag or briefcase per person. Prices are subject to change. Tell me more! GHAN GOLD SERVICE CABINS: Ghan rail journeys, gold twin or single cabins. 1. The Ghan ’s wild history started in 1878. Anticipate fine dining and regional wines against a backdrop of beautiful Australian scenery onboard our unique dining carriages. Checked Luggage for Gold Twin - 60kg luggage allowance per guest (2 x 30kg). ARNHEM LAND ADVENTURE 2025. Experience the Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin with 4 nights in Adelaide and 1 night in Darwin, an Adelaide city tour, a Hahndorf, Mt Lofty Ranges & Adelaide Hills Tour, river cruise and flights. Check out these great specials for rail travel on The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern. Gold Premium cabins available from April 2024. ADELAIDE TO ALICE SPRINGS 2023. Energy Rebate: TPI, PCC, War widows with TPI and Qld Seniors Card eligible for rebate of $329. Give us a call (1300872465) and we can ensure we offer you the best rate available. The two night, three day journey from Adelaide to Brisbane features opportunities to step off the train to experience the spectacular. The Ghan 2024/2025 Timetable. 00 Call Now To Speak With A Tour Expert: 1-888-942-3301. Richard W. Rail prices are correct at time of printing but are subject to change. 8 Day Train + Touring Package. 4 days/3 nights aboard the Indian Pacific; All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages; A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local winesPrices for GOLD SUPERIOR & PLATINUM SERVICE cabins are available on request. alice springs tours. Explore Nitmiluk Gorge’s powerful natural wonders and rich Indigenous culture. The Ghan Coastal Quest 2024 – PONANT From $19,145 pp . A unique and epic experience, explore the wonders of Australia’s vast interior with one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys – The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to. The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern. v. TOP 10 REASONS FOR GOING ON A KIMBERLEY CRUISE. Darwin to Adelaide Expedition (4 Days) – Gold Service Premium Twin Cabins. 2023 TIMETABLE. great southern holiday packages new! senior pensioner discounts; rail journeys brochures; tours. Experience The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin, then 4 nights in Darwin, Broome and Perth with two tours in each location. Platinum $ 4,115. Fares, packages and In 2019, The Ghan marked 90 years of outback crossings. Departs Wednesdays (Mar & Nov) From $2,480 PP. alice springs tours. alice springs tours. 4 Days. Check NSW TrainLink fare rules for pensioners. kings canyon to ayers rock transfer; kings canyon resort to alice. Coventry. Adelaide to Darwin on The Ghan starts at $1789 (Gold) and $3319 (Platinum) – see Great Southern Rail for fares in the opposite direction. the ghan; ghan 2025 prices; the ghan holiday packages new. kings canyon to ayers rock transfer; kings canyon resort to alice. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD). Central bank policies aimed at curbing price pressures are. Enjoy the ultimate 4 day extended Ghan Expedition (an extra day aboard the Ghan for additional off-train excursions) from Darwin to Adelaide as well as 4 nights in Darwin, a Darwin town tour, Jumping crocodile tour and. Settle in to the comforts of The Ghan, relaxing in your cabin or mingling with fellow guests in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Full payment required at time of booking. Terms and Conditions apply. The Ghan, Adelaide: See 684 reviews, articles, and 837 photos of The Ghan, ranked No. 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. There are always Ghan 2022 Senior Pensioner Deals to be found through BlueSun Travel and Kimberley Boat Cruises. The Ghan Outback to Ocean with Kakadu 2024 – PONANT From $19,715 pp . (L,D) OVERNIGHT: 2 nights The Ghan DAY 2 – THE GHAN, ALICE. GHAN DATES 2024 ADELAIDE to DARWIN: Ghan Specials 2024. From Melbourne to Coral Coast. The Ghan and Indian Pacific, embodying the same adventurous spirit as it opens up a new era in Australian rail travel. Pre register with us and we will ensure your Platinum Cabin is secured. 50 all day travel with the Country Pensioner Excursion ticket for booked NSW TrainLink Regional services; $2. 00pm (ACST) Saturday & Sunday 9. May - October 2024. The Ghan in Australia consists of 44 carriages and two locomotives Legendary train now measures 650ft longer than the standard Ghan service It steams ahead of sister train, The Indian Pacific. PRICE PER PERSON FROM;. No alterations to price will be made within 60 days of departure from Australia. Dates and Prices 2023/2024. An icon of Australian rail travel and one of the world’s great train journeys, ride the rails of history aboard The Ghan Expedition between Darwin and Adelaide. 2. PlatinumEveryday Fare$ 6,420; Gold Twin Everyday Fare$ 3,805; Advance Purchase $ 3,425. The great train journey which between between Adelaide, through Alice Springs, to Darwin. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD) and are inclusive of GST. ". Pensioner & Gold Card specials. The Journey Beyond Travel Club rewards your love of travel with exclusive deals and member benefits, and it’s free to join. It departs Brisbane on Monday at 10. Introduced to service in 1982 the XPT, short for "express passenger train", has an aerodynamic design and travels between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Dubbo, Grafton and Casino. Discover Globus Tours's "Spectacular Australia with the Historic Ghan Train and Southern Lights Special Departure with Fiji (PQ1E2024)" - A(n) 24-Day Escorted Globus Tours Experience Starting From $11,800. The ghan pensioner prices 2020. Price includes Platinum Service on The Ghan & Indian Pacific; Please note for all departures: prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD). Day 1: Adelaide to the outback. Travel The Ghan from Adelaide to Alice Springs. Inclusions. One of the worlds great rail journeys travelling between Sydney, Alice Springs and Perth. ARNHEM LAND AND RED CENTRE SPECTACULAR 2025. Inclusions. An icon of Australian rail travel and one of the world’s great train journeys, ride the rails of history aboard The Ghan Expedition between Darwin and Adelaide. BOOKING PERIOD 10 APRIL 2024 – 31 DECEMBER 2024 1. Hotels. The ultimate in luxury train travel, this one night, two day rail journey takes you from the south coast to the Red Centre of Australia. Monday – Friday 8. Black Friday Gold Single offer available on new bookings between 16/11/23 and 01/12/23, for travel on the Great Southern between 01/01/24 – 31/01/24, from Brisbane to Adelaide only. Alice Springs to Darwin (2 days) – from $1,239 per person. Visited March 2023. Explore the wonders of China at an irresistible price. CALL 1300 799 758 Email: holidays@bluesuntravel. All Ghan off-train activities are included, like Alice Springs, Katherine Gorge and Marla. From 8,810. A unique and epic experience, explore the wonders of Australia’s vast interior with one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys – The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide. Experience the legendary Ghan and all-inclusive touring at its best in Adelaide and Darwin, featuring Barossa, Murray River cruise, Kakadu, Litchfield and harbour dinner cruise. Great Western Wonders 2024 From $8,615 PP . PACKAGE DATES. 8 Day Train + Touring Package. Gold Premium cabins available from December 2024. Prices are correct at time of printing and valid till 31 March 2024. Get in early and secure an Advance Purchase Fare on the date you want. Tours of Litchfield National Park, Darwin & Tiwi Islands. 9 Nights. flights Low Season from: £8,865 pp High Season from: £9,615 pp. 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. For more information on our Ghan Dates 2023 - Adelaide to Darwin or any of our rail packages and tours, 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. For the discerning traveller, Platinum Service adds an enhanced level of sophistication to your journey. ENQUIRE NOW. the ghan; ghan 2025 prices; the ghan holiday packages new! indian pacific; indian pacific holiday packages new! great southern; great southern holiday packages new! senior pensioner discounts; rail journeys brochures; tours. Rail Expeditions are the following journeys: The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Great Southern, The Overland and The Ghan Expedition. THE ULTIMATE WEST BY LAND AND SEA – 2024. 28 days from Melbourne to Auckland. GHAN 2022 PRICES & DATES PUBLISHED: Ghan rail journeys between Adelaide, Alice Springs & Darwin. Day of departure. 5% in 2022, up from 10% in 2021, driven by food and energy prices and depreciating local currency. 30am. Luxury Escapes has just launched new 2024 dates for an exclusive 9-day rail adventure from Darwin to Adelaide that they’re calling The Ghan Once-in-a-Lifetime Luxury Escapes Charter. The ultimate in luxury train travel, this one night, two day rail journey takes you from north coast to the Red Centre of Australia, visiting Katherine along the way. Step aboard The Ghan for an unforgettable train journey through the Northern Territory. Aboard LE PONANT. FROM $21,050 PP | 23 Days | 22 Nights. No alterations to price will be made within 90 days of departure from Australia. 2 Nights. 00pm (ACST)A feast of the senses. 4 days / 3 nights aboard The Ghan Expedition, travelling from Darwin to Adelaide 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. 3 Days. Includes Return International Full-Service Flights. Platinum Club for dining, beverages and socialising. 00pm (ACST)All prices in Australian dollars (AUD) and are inclusive of GST. 308 on Tripadvisor among 308 attractions in Adelaide. Advance Purchase Fares must be booked and paid for in full a minimum of six months in advance. 00pm (ACST) Saturday & Sunday 9. Gold Premium cabins available from April 2024. Call Now -1300 872 4652021 UPDATED GHAN RAIL DATES & PRICES. The fiscal deficit widened slightly, to 9. Prices are higher during the peak season (May to August), and if you want sole occupancy of a Gold Twin or Platinum cabin. Re-board the Ghan for another night before finishing with 1 night in Darwin. Sydney to Perth or Perth to Sydney and not for. ADELAIDE TO ALICE SPRINGS 2024. The Alice to Darwin “Top End” route, dreamed of for more than a century, celebrated its 14th. All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages. Board The Ghan in Adelaide for an iconic showcase journey of inland Australia. Only limited number of these fares available per departure and are subject to availability. On The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Great Southern & The Overland. Coach classes: No items found. Board The Ghan in Adelaide at noon and enjoy lunch as you watch Adelaide's gracious outskirts roll into pastoral lands and undulating wine country before flattening into rugged mallee scrub. . The Ghan Coastal Quest 2024 – PONANT From $19,145 pp . Gold single flexible $4850 per person. The most expensive cabin on this journey is the fully-flexible Platinum service starting at $3,431. Travel aboard The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin on the all-inclusive Outback Spirit journey. The Suite includes: A newly designed, contemporary cabin with a three-quarter-size double bed, fold-down upper berth and lounge area. Prices & Deals: 1300 799 758. Great Trains provide expert advice and services in arranging luxury train travel on The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern. Saved. Coastal Quest. While there are many ways to see it, there’s only one way to do it with ease and in comfort. DVA PCC holders and war veteran pensioners are eligible for 50% rebate to a max of $700. TTI = Temporarily Total Incapacitated. 2 night all-inclusive rail journey on board The Ghan. View. AUD$ pp, pre-club discount: Platinum: Gold Twin: Double Flexible: 6,525: 3,995: Double. alice springs coach transfers. (Meals: L,D). 4 day / 3 night Gold Service Cabin from $4665 per person share twin. com ABN: 97 143 303 306 SUPPORT AUSTRALIAN TOURISM - We Do!These are the pensioner discounts and deals for 2023. PRICE PER PERSON FROM; Cabin Fare Type 21 April 2024 15D / 14N 19 May 2024 17D / 16N 19 June 2024 17D / 16N 17 July 2024 16D / 15N; Platinum & Prestige Stateroom: Everyday Holiday: $19,055: $19,360: $19,965:. The Ghan 2023 Timetable. Regarded as one of the world’s greatest train journeys, The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. THE GHAN AND INDIAN PACIFIC 2024 DATES RELEASED: New availability. Ghan rail deals call 1300 799 758. Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for joining this tour and is in addition to the package price. The journey is punctuated by a range of wonderful. The Ghan train journey between Adelaide and Darwin offers four uniquely different routes to choose from, depending which direction you wish to travel in: The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide (4 Days + 3 Nights) Outback Spirit Journey from Adelaide to Darwin (3 Days + 2 Nights) The Ghan The Ghan Expedition Indian Pacific Great Southern FOOD AND BEVERAGE On all of our journeys you’ll find yourself indulging in the finest cuisine, curated by our highly experienced culinary team who work closely with local suppliers, farmers, and providores to source the best ingredients to create innovative and regionally-inspired. 1 Night. 4 days/3 nights aboard the Indian Pacific; All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages; A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines Note: The Ghan does not operate November to February. v. The Ghan: Fares, price, booking, routes, information and reviews for Australia's luxury The Ghan train, running from Adelaide to Darwin. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD) and are inclusive of GST. If you are looking to travel soon, on either the Ghan or the Indian Pacific, then give our experts a call on 1300 799 758 to find out more. Platinum Service from $7,300 per person, twin share. Set off on Australia's greatest rail journey, beginning in. ALICE SPRINGS TO ADELAIDE 2023. All prices in Australian dollars (AUD) and are inclusive of GST. Click on the READ MORE button to see the highlights of each itinerary. 00am – 5. Most will need you to fill in a form to start the process. 73 on gas. Heart of Australia. For 2024 onwards - Amendments can be made more than 46 days before. THE GHAN, INDIAN PACIFIC AND GREAT SOUTHERN ‘FLEXIBLE FARES’ RAIL JOURNEY. Platinum $ 11,080; Gold Twin Everyday Fare $ 6,730 Advance Purchase $ 6,060;. Terms and Conditions apply. Travel aboard The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin on this all-inclusive journey. 3 DAYS | 2 NIGHTS FROM $1,525 PP. Hotels. Platinum Double Cabin. Perth (10:00hrs) to Sydney (15:15 hrs) - Sunday departure. 00 am. Premium amenities, luxuriously soft linen and silk eye masks. view itinerary PCC and Gold Card holders receive 20% (to a max $200/year) discount on gross rates. An icon of Australian rail travel and one of the world’s great train journeys, ride the rails of history aboard The Ghan Expedition between. Experience the Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin with 4 nights in Adelaide and 1 night in Darwin, an Adelaide city tour, a Hahndorf, Mt Lofty Ranges & Adelaide Hills Tour, river cruise and flights. 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. Settle in to your cabin and see the changes in landscape from your window as the train leaves the city, heading for the Flinders Ranges and beyond. Browse The Ghan packages and prices below. Terms and Conditions apply. 2 DAYS | 1 NIGHTS. 15 Client Reviews. To find out how you can add The Ghan to your Kimberley cruise, or about our rail/cruise packages, call our expert team today on 1800 90 20 80 or visit Facebook. 1800 703 357 (In Australia) +61 8 8213 4401 (Outside Australia) Contact Us Form. The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) is a measure of inflation that tracks the overall price changes for a basket of more than 700 popular goods and services. High Season 2023. Spectacular Australia with the Historic Ghan Train 2024 - Small Group. Enquire on no single supplement dates: call 1300 799 758. 20 Days. archives. Note the Ghan does not operate in the same months as the Great Southern. In 2023, the price of riding The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin starts from $1,619 (2,475 AUD) per person for a Gold Single cabin. Gold Service is the most popular level of service for luxury train travel for The Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin) and Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth). Meals include 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 8 dinners ; Prices from $9,325* per person, twin share ; Find out more here ; The Ultimate Territory Tour$2. Coming soon. Then, I discovered the Ghan. On that momentous journey, the train was dubbed ‘The Afghan Express’ and then shortened to the legend it is today, ‘The Ghan’. 7. Railway Traveller. Terms and Conditions apply. 4 days/3 night aboard The Ghan. Monday – Friday 8. Ghan & Silversea Packages 1300 799 758. See the timetable for The Ghan. Home / Packages / Darwin to Adelaide 2024 . Create your own rich and rewarding personal journey through Australia’s outback and beyond, experience The Ghan in 2023. Do you wish to travel Platinum Service on The Ghan, Indian Pacific or Great Southern. Today you can become part of this celebrated history. Mar - Aug 2024 Departure Sunday (Additional departures on Wednesday). March 2024 . With routes between the Indian and Pacific oceans, step onboard for an all-inclusive rail holiday you’ll never forget. Prices depend on a date and are subject to change without notice. Join Journey Beyond on one of 45 rail journeys on board The Ghan, Indian Pacific or Great Southern this season. RAA Travel / RAA Travel 2024 The Ghan rail journey, Adelaide to Darwin. Gold Premium cabins available from April 2024. Additional Info. Great Trains specialise in arranging luxurious rail journeys on The Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin), the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) and the Great Southern (Brisbane to Adelaide) The Ghan Expedition travels from Darwin to Adelaide over four days from March to October inclusive visting Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy along. How It Works . ^Set departure date 15th January 2024. It departs Adelaide on Friday at 9am and arrives in Brisbane on Sunday at 4. A monopoly may be government controlled (1) and charge low prices (1). alice springs coach transfers. 7 Meals. It doesn’t come any better than travelling on The Ghan, exploring Uluru and Kata Tjuta, cruising Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine and exploring Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, all in one sensational journey through the nation’s heartland.