[NSW] Picture taking at stations (Please Read)

[maikha_l@hotmail.com]

To All (Especially Sydney-siders)

today after jumping off an inter-urban service at Penrith, I decided to
take a picture of my train (just got off) departing Penrith with my new
camera I just got back from servicing.

I managed to get a good shot of V27's rear with the front carriages
gleaming the evening sun.
---------------
(The Main part)
---------------

Just after pressing the shutter, I switched off my camera and put the
lens cap on, an Indian Cityrail station staff walked up to me and asked
"Why did you take the picture for?"
I then replied by explaining "I'm a railway enthusiast, and taking
pictures of trains is my hobby"
She then replied saying that "I had to have permission from the State
Rail Authority to take pictures in the premesis" (!!!!!)

She then led me to the Station Master's office at Penrith Station and
then I inquired about the picture taking.

"Yes, you must have permission from State Rail to take pics on the
grounds, as a letter of condolence" the Station Master said firmly.
Completely shocked, I then explained myself, my interests and hobby
(photography) but he kept the Permission explanation.

Very shocked I was after those same explanations, I then sincerely
apologised to him and the staff that "pulled me in" about the matter,
they were cool about it and the master gave me a compliment
"Hope you take good pictures"


The serious note, Do we require this "letter of condolence" just to
have a hobby like this, or were those Penrith Staff just talking c**p
to me?!?
If this permission thing is true........(I'll let ausrailer's discuss)


Thanks to all who reply seriously, this matter is of top concern
Maikha "V" Ly
http://www.geocities.com/microchip_689

P.S. I would like to say hello to:

-"Trendy"
-"Fordghia"
-Anyone from HET
-and David Johnson

after meeting all of them in person today.
P.P.S. A major setback for a "rookie" photographer.....the Authorities!


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