Help train operating questions

[pberrett@tbsa.com.au (Peter Berrett)]

Hi all

I have just been pondering the practicalities of building and operating a 
solar train from Sydney to Perth.

I have some general train questions that I hope some experienced train staff 
can help me with.


1. What are the lightest wheels permissable that can be used on Australian 
tracks? I imagine that the small track inspection cars have small light 
wheels.Possibly some old track inspection cars could be converted as a series 
of articulated solar carriages. 

2. If a small solar train was built what would the minimum licence be 
required to operate it on the standard gauge track between Sydney and Perth 
and where would one get such a licence. Would a steam drivers certificate as 
gained at a local steamrail society be enough?

3. What is the maximum track speed allowed generally on the track across 
Australia? Any speed restrictions?

4. Any other major legal or technical hurdles that I may have overlooked.

Hoping someone can help

cheers Peter