Re: Ben Chifley Train (5112 et al)

[Bob <gioia@fastlink.com.au>]

Darren Yates wrote:

> Does anyone know when the Ben Chifley Train (5112 et al) is due to begin
> operation?

My understanding is that things aren't happening at Orange. The guys that
were restoring 5112 have left and those left don't know anything about steam
locos. As a result they are looking at various options to complete this
project. I hear that 3801 Ltd was approached to do work on it on a sub
contract basis but nothing has happened as yet. Also the State Mine group
was approached about a possible amalgamation of the two groups but I hear
that they too are having similar problems. The biggest problem of all is
that Bathurst City Council is getting fed up with the delays as they were
promised a running loco many years back and are still waiting. They have
even threatened to take the loco back and put it on the plinth but I doubt
this would happen just yet as the loco is still somewhat incomplete.
Cheers
Bob