Privatisation and steam

[steam4me@enternet.com.au (Yuri J Sos)]

With the impending privatisation of V/Line Freight and the inclusion
of infrastructure in the sale (signallers at West Footscray Junction,
Sunshine, Brooklyn, Somerton now have VLF rosters and pay cheques, a
change from VicTrack rosters/cheques six - seven weeks ago), what will
the position be in reference to continued steam tour operation in
Victoria.

An anti-steam/anti-excursion freight operator could make it
difficult/impossible for the wealth of steam tours the currently
operate to continue.  I believe NR's corporate attitude is the main
reason no SG steam has ventured through Victoria.

The specific issues are the use of steam locomotives themselves, the
use of wooden carriages and the maintenance of or access to
infrastructure requirements (turntables etc).

Are there any measures contemplated to protect the excursion market
from say exorbitant track access charges, unrealistic speed limits (ie
just a 10km/h reduction of wooden bodied stock from 80 to 70 km/h and
the reduction in number of crossing loops already in Victoria could
make it difficult/impractical to operate the variety of steam tours we
currently enjoy).

Are the various bodies involved in steam preservation/operation
included in the consultations leading up to privatisation:  will there
be mechanisms for protection through the Office of the
Regulator-General?  Has anyone even canvassed any of these issues?



Regards

Yuri
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Yuri J Sos
Melbourne VIC AUS

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