A defining part of Australia’s steam train history is returning to the Central West after more than a decade.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the widely adored steam locomotive 3801 will tour the region from June 3 to 14 for the first time since 2007, after a $3.5 million NSW Government funded overhaul.
“3801 will offer Central West customers the chance to go back in time with regular shuttle rides over two weeks,” Mr Toole said.
“No other steam engine in Australia has captured the imagination of rail enthusiasts and the public as much as 3801, so this is an exciting opportunity for the Central West to take a trip on the State’s most iconic steam locomotive.
“This starts a new chapter in the life of the historic and much-loved locomotive.
“I would like to thank the volunteers and staff at Transport Heritage NSW who have worked over the past decade to make this all possible.”
A variety of journeys will go on sale today, including 1-1.5-hour steam train rides with 3801 out of Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo.
When 3801 first launched in 1943, it instantly changed the image of the NSW Railways with its streamlined art-deco style.
3801 made its first journey from Central Station in 1943 and operated as an express passenger locomotive and later as a freight locomotive until being formally withdrawn from service in 1962.
It became famous for being the only steam locomotive to have travelled to all mainland Australian states and territories.
Tickets for 3801’s tour of the Central West go on sale at midday today at: www.thnsw.com.au/3801
Please note:
· 3801 will depart Bathurst for a special one-way tour to with Minister Toole at 12.30pm on Friday June 4, arriving at Blayney at 1:41pm.
· Pronunciation of 3801 is “thirty-eight-o-one”.
Kommentare