Legend of steam, locomotive 3801 is headed for the Riverina and southern NSW, offering customers the chance to go back in time, as part of its state wide regional tour.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said Albury, Wagga Wagga and Junee were some of the first areas to be visited by 3801 after it returned to service in March this year following a 10 year restoration project.
“This is a great opportunity for families and rail enthusiasts alike to jump aboard for a trip on this widely adored locomotive,” Ms Cooke said.
“No other steam engine in Australia has captured the imagination as much as 3801, so this is an exciting opportunity to take a trip on the State’s most iconic steam locomotive.”
Member for Albury Justin Clancy said when 3801 first launched in 1943, it instantly changed the image of the NSW Railways with its iconic art-deco streamlining.
“The 38’s iconic style combined with their power and reliability demonstrated NSW Railway’s ability to keep up with the rest of the world,” Mr Clancy said.
“Rail enthusiasts in our area now have a chance to see the only steam locomotive to have travelled to all mainland Australian states and territories, close up.”
3801 made its first journey from Central Station in 1943 and operated as an express passenger locomotive and later as a freight locomotive until being formally withdrawn from service in 1962.
In the next few months 3801 will be making trips to other destinations across regional NSW. For more information on upcoming events and to purchase tickets, visit www.thnsw.com.au/3801
The events program includes:
Saturday 3 – Monday 5 April: Albury Steam Train Rides
Tuesday 6 – Thursday 8 April: Junee Roundhouse Railway Museum
Friday 9 April: Junee Steam Train Rides
Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 April: Wagga Wagga Steam Train Rides
