East Gippsland Vic log trains

["Darren H." <locob67@hotmail.com>]

For anyone wondering about Sale - Hillside log trains, the signals at
Stratford were switched on by Dec. 31. The one at Fernbank is (or was) still
dead however. All level crossing signals are now in operation. At least one
now has new lights and some faded signs were replaced on others.
The RTL (road transferable locomotive) is still the sole motive power, but
loads and speeds have increased. 15 empty VOHX wagons were being hauled this
morning. Loaded trains have been observed with up to 6 wagons. Speeds have
reached 60km/h (from driving beside the train and checking with my speedo
twice) and I suspect it may be going slightly faster on some better sections
of track. Driving at legal road speeds I rarely had to wait more than 30
seconds at my selected photo locations (the road is further than the
railway). Quite different to my December trips.
Work on the Avon river bridge seems about to begin with some inspection and
surveying taking place this week. Apparently the bridge creaks and groans as
the train passes over it and parts were reported as falling off (I have not
actually seen or heard this as yet). It would not surprise me however. The
structure (trestle section at least) does not look safe at all.