Re: Vic Tangaras

[dbromage@omni.com.au (David Bromage)]

Les Brown (pcc@ocean.com.au) wrote:
> jdennis@acslink.net.au wrote in aus.rail:

> >That may be, but I well remember travelling to Belgrave (for Puffing Billy
> >work) in the early 60s, and to Hurstbridge (just for fun) in the mid 60s,
> >riding in what we called "dogboxes".  I am sure it was a railfan term then -
> >otherwise I wouldn't have known about it.  (Of course, the term *railfan* was
> >equally unknown then, AFAIK)
> >
> I remember as one of my best railway experiences, after securing the
> co-operation of a friendly guard, travelling up to Eltham in the
> cupola in the Guard's compartment of a dogbox late one Saturday night
> as I had arranged to stay overnight at the DVR. Magic trip. The guard
> had to get out at every stop to blow his whistle and wave his green
> flag because the doggies had no bell system.

I often got to ride in with the guard of Taits in the mid to late 70s. Due
to the narrow doors, it was usually impossible for Mum to get a pram into
the saloon. Thanks to having two younger brothers, rides with the guard
were common.

Cheers
David