Re: Carfloats...?...

["doug williams" <dougiebass@hotmail.com>]

hi folks!

Here is some more info on the Grafton Train Ferry.........

This service started in December 1923 after the completion of the
Macksville - Urunga section of the North Coast line. With the completion of
this section, the Far North Coast of NSW was finally linked to the rest of
the NSWGR system. As there was still no connection accross the Clarence
River a number of options were looked at as interim measure till the bridge
could be completed. The decision was finally made to use Train Ferries.

There were two vessels assigned to the service. The "SS Swallow" later
joined by the "SS Induna". The "Swallow" was the larger of the two ships
with three "roads" on the deck, but all three could not be used together due
to weight and clearence problems. The "Induna" only had the one "road" as it
was a smaller ship. The system of loading and operation was fairly similar
to that of a car ferry or punt.

With the opening of the double deck bridge, which  itself was unique with
not only the twin decks but a lifting span in the middle, the Train Ferries
finally became obselete on the 8th of  May 1932.

Refrence: "The Railway News" May-June 1977.

I believe the RTM's magazine "Roundhouse" also featured the Train Ferries
but at this time i am unable to locate the issue number. sorry!

These issues are no doubt well out of print now, but you could probaly get a
copy of the articles from the ARHS Archives NSW Division. Their e-mail
address is arhsnsw@accsoft.com.au