Been exploring ElStoko's Liverpool Range route. Outstanding stuff. Being a both a steam era modeller and trainzer, this route really hits the spot.
On May 7th, 1959... we track the progress of No 9 Werris Creek Day Train (ex Sydney). In years gone by, Day Trains and the Night Mails were the backbone of regional rail passenger travel on the NSWGR. No 9 was actually timetabled to stop at all the stations depicted, with an "a" stop for Temple Court. I've tried to capture the Liverpool Range landscape instead of just the train.
The stop at Blandford with 3521 in charge.
Trailing shot heading towards Murrurundi (or M'rundi as the railwaymen called it). Trailing shots are underrated!
Approaching M'rundi with a 59 class on a Goods waiting for No 9 to clear the section.
The 4 minute stop at M'rundi allowed for watering the loco, and attachment of a front-end bank engine... IF required. On this day, with loading just clearing 200t, No 9 will tackle the bank to Ardglen solo. After taking water, 3521 blasts out of the station with purpose, passing some Way & Works vehicles in the siding.
One of the creek crossings north of M'rundi sees a reasonable pace by the old 35'er, but she's beginning to slow.
Approaching Pangela Loop, 3521 slogs hard, as she is down to about 9mph. Remember the era concerned, Australia's measurements were imperial. The route is signposted accurately to reflect that too.
The summit of the grade now conquered, the train can simply coast into Ardglen station, while a southbound Goods hauled by a 53 class awaits in the loop. Ardglen is a wonderful amphitheatre for railway photography and video. While some of the magic from the sectional safeworking days has been lost, it remains a popular spot today.
Standing start, heading north from Ardglen.