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Aus loco discussion mailing list
A trifle off topic, but I'm sure Patrick will
indulge me on this one!
On Sydney Central Platform 1 earlier tonight,
assembled passengers and well wishers for the RTM's Melbourne
trip witnessed the veteran retired politician, William (Billy)
Wentworth, relaunch the "Southern Aurora" into tourist service. During his 28
years in politics, he was one of the original architects of the push for a
national standard gauge network, and it was a fitting gesture for him to carry
out the formalities.
Using a PA system which was almost unnecessary, in
a firm and booming voice which must have intimidated a generation of opposition
members (you could hear it on platform 23!), he gave a remarkable speech for
someone of his advanced years, and then switched on the blue "Southern Aurora"
neon sign on the rear car. I am assured that this relic is genuine,
although the frame has been cleaned up a bit, and it certainly works - I thought
it had disappeared years ago.
Right on 8pm, the all stainless steel consist, with
the dining car set up, and the lounge in full swing, set off into the night
behind the Museum's tuscan 44211 and 4490. The 442 may not have been
everyone's choice for lead loco (the 43 had failed), but it also sported a
headboard, and the engine crew, not to be outdone, wore white shirts and bow
ties under their dust jackets!
As an occasional traveller on this magnificent
train in it's heyday, it was an eerie experience to watch the tail lights and
illuminated Aurora sign disappearing into the distance through the
trackwork of Sydney yard - sort of like stepping into a timewarp. If
they could put a blue "S" class on the front when they get to Albury, the
illusion would be complete. :-)
Cheers,
Paul
*ps - I hear rumours of X45 working the Short North
on Monday - can anyone confirm?
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