Steam to Robertson

[scanfor]

We are just back from Sydney for the weekend after a trip on the NSWRTM Southern Highland Express to Robertson via Wollongong and back to Central through Campbelltown
It was hauled by 3642, then 12 carriages, then 44211 and 4306 (I think) bringing up the rear.
What a spectacular family day out it was, and what a great bunch of people (all volunteers) they have running it.
The sound of 3642 beating up the hills was something we'll always remember.
Highly recommended.

[robbotd5]

Hey mate glad you enjoyed the trip. Steam locomotion is an amazing experience and the sound of an engine at a decent gallop is awesome. Pity about the Diseasels though, a double head would have been great to see. Saw 3642 at sreamfest, great to have these incredable machines for future generations to enjoy.
Regards
Robbo

[Dinty]

I have some excellent film showing showing 3642 climbing "Fassifern bank" from the 1st Steamfest 20 years ago, it has the engine slipping x 3 times coming up the bank, huge clouds of black smoke, I love it with the volume up loud LOL cheers Dennis:angel:

[scanfor]

As annoying as it was to have the dieasels on the back, we really needed them up the 1:30 from Unanderra.

A few times we heard 3642 slip and then back-off and then slowly bring the power back on. I know what you mean about the sound Dinty. We looked back to the rear of the train and the diesel smoke was pouring out, so even with them shoving up the rear it was bloody hard going. Twelve of those old heavy carriages full of passengers would be quite a load.

Our 12 year-old "future generation" got to sit in the drivers seat for a while, and is now completely hooked on steam, so you're absolutley right about having the steamers around for them Robbo.

Apparently 3801 will be back soon, so maybe a double-headed steam will happen then.

[robbotd5]

I have some excellent film showing showing 3642 climbing "Fassifern bank" from the 1st Steamfest 20 years ago, it has the engine slipping x 3 times coming up the bank, huge clouds of black smoke, I love it with the volume up loud LOL cheers Dennis:angel:
Dennis, I'd like to see that.
Regards
Robbo

[Ausfree]

Me too!!!!:D:D^^^^^^

[Ausfree]

We are just back from Sydney for the weekend after a trip on the NSWRTM Southern Highland Express to Robertson via Wollongong and back to Central through Campbelltown
It was hauled by 3642, then 12 carriages, then 44211 and 4306 (I think) bringing up the rear.
What a spectacular family day out it was, and what a great bunch of people (all volunteers) they have running it.
The sound of 3642 beating up the hills was something we'll always remember.
Highly recommended.
Any piccies??????????????????

[V8Ian]

I was wondering the same Jim. ;)

[scanfor]

I hope the attachments work.
Here she is back at Central after a hard days work, and one of the next generation of steam train drivers.
Also a view from the window on the way down.