Re: Cowra-Blayney [NSW AUS] to Re-open

["Robert Parnell" <rparnell@netspace.net.au>]

> As a matter of interest, what classes of locos can run over this line ,
and
> indeed for the section from Cowra to Demondrille.
> Pretty sure that the southern leg is fairly lightweight track which would
rule
> out things like NRs, 81s, 82s etc.
> What will the safeworking be .
> Any indication of the Demondrille triangle being reinstated?
> Without this , it means the descent down the 1:40 to Harden and then back
up
> it again, pretty hopeless for any decent sort of train load.
>
> cheers
> MD

The official opening date is set out for 18 Dec. 99. It is likely that it
will be early nexty year though. The outstanding work is basically the
Holmwood bridge replacement and repairs to the Carcoar bridge.
Safeworking from Demondrille to Cowra will remain as staff sections
(Koorawatha in between). Cowra to Blayney will also be a staff section to
begin with, but everything is set for train-order working over this section
(radio wise anyway). Train radio will be an issue with most operators as
FreightCorp are the only operator with the CountryNet train radio equipment
installed in their locos who are likely to operate over this section.

As an aside, there are 2 FreightCorp 48 class locos currently carrying out
crew training between Cowra and locations south of Cowra. An agreement has
been reached between LVR and FreightCorp to stable the 2 48s at Cowra loco.
This began early this week and is expected to continue for about 2 weeks.
--
Robert Parnell
Rail Access/Argus Telecommunications Technician, Electronics Enthusiast,
Lachlan Valley Railway Director,  NSW HO scale railway modeller
E-mail:<rparnell@netspace.net.au>