Steam train enthusiasts have launched a campaign to save the state’s heritage trains amid concerns they are on a NSW government “hit list”.

Over 1000 people have signed a petition to save the state’s steam trains, campaign organiser, Rail Heritage Australia (NSW) president John Glastonbury says.

Mr Glastonbury says there are a handful of steam locomotives in NSW and he wants to see them invigorated for tourism and to give members of the public access to an important part of the state’s heritage.

“The marvels of steam train travel in NSW for thousands of devotees and newcomers may be no more if state government bureaucracy gets its way,” he said.

He said the government is sitting on a report that came out of a Premier’s Office inquiry six months ago which he believes recommends supporting steam rail.

“I suspect this report will have some things in it about the way the government in NSW can better support rail heritage,” he told AAP on Sunday.

“And that this (stream train travel) is valued and needs to be better managed by the government.”

Mr Glastonbury is among 200 people travelling aboard Steam Locomotive 3016 from Goulburn which will arrive in Sydney at 6pm (AEDT) on Sunday.

The group will petition the government to release the report and save steam rail, Mr Glastonbury said.

Comment was being sought from NSW Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian.