This year, there will be a change of routine, as he will arrive by train, and then move through the site by means of a Christmas-themed vintage fire engine.

"Our special visitor will arrive by train at noon," museum chairman Peter Meddows said.

"Families are most welcome to photograph their children with Santa, which will be based around the fire engine, with social distancing in effect.

"We will be offering shuttle rides on our full-sized train, as well as miniature train rides throughout the day.

"We'll also have some model trains operating and our friends from the vintage farm machinery fraternity will once again mount an interesting display, with lots of other items of interest."

Exhibitions within the museum will include historic artefacts, images and videos. Some special Christmas-themed exhibits will be included for the day.

After Santa's visit, the museum is hoping to extend the operating season for steam locomotive Marjorie into the Christmas holidays, due to the limited opportunities for visitors in 2020.

The locomotive will then go for summer maintenance before resuming the steam season in March 2021.

Gates will open at 9.30am Sunday, closing at 4pm.

The museum's canteen and souvenir shop will be open for snacks and gifts.

Entry fees are $16 adults, $11 concession, $7.50 children 5-15, with under-5s free.