TRAINS IN TASMANIA http://steve3652.fotopic.net/ 19 rows en-gb 60 Autumn Action http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1473153.html As the hot summer ended, similar weather has persisted into early March. Fortunatly we did get a bit of rain towards the end of summer, so there is a bit of colour in the landscape. Here's a few shots taken in Autumn as they arise. Best wishes Steve Bromley Saturday 1 March 2008: As the hot summer ended, similar weather has persisted into early March. Fortunatly we did get a bit of rain towards the end of summer, so there is a bit of colour in the landscape. Here's a few shots taken in Autumn as they arise. Best wishes Steve Bromley

2132/2012 and 2009 are seen passing Woodbury with no 31 on Tuesday 11th March 2008, time 17.15 2132/2012/2009 are seen side on, approaching the level crossing at the sleepy hamlet of York Plains on Tuesday 11th March 2008 at 17.47 Train number 31 passes through the sleepy hamlet of York Plains with units 2132/2012 and 2009 on Tuesday 11th March 2008 at 17.47. Units MKA 2132/ DQ 2012/ DQ 2009 can be seen crawling uphill towards Andover on Tuesday 11th March 2008. : 18.06. Units MKA2132/DQ2012/DQ2009 coast their train through Parattah Station, framed by the large crane gantry. The empty paper train is about at the half way point on the Western Junction to Hobart Main Line. Time 18.17 on Tuesday 11th March, 2008 With the main line blocked further up the line due to a derailment near Antill Ponds, a load of paper was run up to Parattah. Units DQ2011/DQ2005/MKA2132 are seen climbing up to Rogerville, passing the stockyards on Thursday 20th March 2008 at 09.25. A load of paper is seen passing through Rogerville, heading North, behind units DQ2011/DQ2005/MKA2132 on Thursday 20th March 2008 at 09.28 With an interesting array of angles and the prominent backdrop of Mount Dromedary, a load of paper is seen arriving at Tea Tree on its way north to Parattah. The main line North of Parattah is blocked by an earlier derailment, which has necessitated this unusually timed movement. Time 09.44 Thursday March 20th 2008

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]]> Sat Mar 1 2008 A Late summer collection http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1459429.html I almost missed the entire summer of photography, due mainly to an ailing car and being pre-occupied by problems at home. However I managed to start getting out in February and will post whatever I can here, before the summer ends at the end of Feb ruary. Best wishes Steve Bromley Saturday 1 December 2007: I almost missed the entire summer of photography, due mainly to an ailing car and being pre-occupied by problems at home. However I managed to start getting out in February and will post whatever I can here, before the summer ends at the end of Feb ruary. Best wishes Steve Bromley

Inbound empty paper train, no 31, is seen nearing Boyer, passing Bundella at 17.01 on Sunday 10th February with the motive power of D2020/MKA2133/D2021 On Friday evening the loaded paper train from Boyer can be seen climbing hard up towards the crossing at Weilly Park, near Bridgewater. DQ 2002 is leading unit and still looks quite smart in its red livery. Indeed it is the last remaining DQ to sport this livery. Only two units were so painted, the other unit 2001 remains in Melbourne for rebuilding but holds an uncertain future. Remaining units were DQ2003/MKA2134/D2020 making up a motley motive power lash up on Friday 15th February at 18.29 Following the preceeding train, no 31, units D2021 and DQ2004 can be seen climbing up to the crossing at Weilly Park. Meanwhile no 31 awaits a cross with this train at Tea Tree. Friday 16th February at 18.48 exactly 19 minutes behind no 32. No 31 passes through Brighton with units MKA2137/MKA2131/DQ2012 at 19.19 on Friday 15th February 2008. Note the different paint variations between the two MKA's can be clearly seen After waiting for a double cross at Tea Tree, train no 31, the empty paper rain finally approaches journeys end seen here joing the Derwent Valley Branch at Bridgewater Junction with units MKA2137/MKA2131/DQ2012 at 19.33. After waiting to cross two Northbound trains at Tea Tree, the empty paper train to Boyer is finally allowed to complete its journey in fading light. After joining the Derwent Valley Branch at Bridgewater Junction the train accelerates along the branch and into a golden swathe of golden light, accentuated by moist mist clouds being blown in by the cool sea breeze. Friday 15th February 2008. Time 19.34. Units were 2137/2131/2012 For the local birdlife at Goulds Lagoon it's life as normal. Clear sunny skies and a cool seabreeze make ripples on the sanctuary's surface, meanwhile the Hobart to Burnie overnight train, no 36 slips by in the form of triple DQ's 2005/2009 and 2006. Time 17.54 on Saturday 16-2-08 Saturday afternoons no 36 is noisily making its way up to Rogerville, passing by Weilly Park on its journey North with triple DQ power nos. 2005/2009 and 2006 on Saturday 16-2-08 The empty paper train is seen passing Bundella with D2020/MKA2134/DQ2003/DQ2002. Some loco swapping took place at Boyer as 32 left Boyer at 19.00 with units DQ2002/DQ2004/D2021. Sunday 17th February 2008. Time 18.09 Sunday evenings loded paper train, no 32, can be seen climbing up to Rogerville with DQ2002/DQ2004[complete with graffiti]/D2021. The train will get a clear run to Tunbridge, where it is expected to cross an early Southbound No35. Sunday February 17th 2008 : Time 19.30 Running out of daylight, no 32 eases through Tea Tree Loop with a golden backlight as the sun works its last minutes for the day, prior to dusk. Sunday 17th February 2008 Between 3 and 4 hours behind the timetable sees no 31 heading towards Andover. DQ2006/MKA2133/DQ2009 are the power, time 18.06. Thursday 21st Feb 2008 After the brief drop down to the horseshoe, now it's time for locos DQ2006/MKA2133/DQ2009 to climb again towards the former Andover Station site on Thursday 21st Feb 2008 at 18.08 A very rushed chase eventuates in a photograph of the same train approaching Parattah Station at 18.17 on Thursday 21st Feb 2008 The late light highlights the leading loco DQ 2006 and MKA 2133, DQ 2009[hidden] as no 31 drops down from Rhyndaton Tunnel towards Colebrook on Thursday 21st Feb 2008 at 18.57.

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]]> Sat Dec 1 2007 Tasmania in spring http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1363657.html Springtime is a lovely time down in Tassie. The countryside is normally nice and green. The weather is quite variable [ as it is most times here]. It appears that loading at the moment has dropped to alarming levels. Many trains recently have been running at very low loadings. The huge 40-50 wagon long overnight trains into Hobart seem to be a thing in the past. Logs still are not carried on rail and it appears other traffic has been lost to road. I will update this gallery as photos come to hand. Best wishes Steve Bromley Saturday 1 September 2007: Springtime is a lovely time down in Tassie. The countryside is normally nice and green. The weather is quite variable [ as it is most times here]. It appears that loading at the moment has dropped to alarming levels. Many trains recently have been running at very low loadings. The huge 40-50 wagon long overnight trains into Hobart seem to be a thing in the past. Logs still are not carried on rail and it appears other traffic has been lost to road. I will update this gallery as photos come to hand. Best wishes Steve Bromley

MKA2131 leads D2020 on a small No31 with somewhat unusual loading is seen crossing the road to Lemont in a rare patch of sunlight on Wednesday September 5th 2007 at 16.03. No 31 seen twisting and climbing towards Andover with a paltry load of about a dozen wagons, mainly 20 foot boxes, on a very murky midlands day on Wednesday September 5th 2007. Around Hobart and the southern areas of Tasmania it was brilliantly sunny all day. Time of photo 16.39 It was a glorious sunny day in the south of Tasmania. However on heading north to meet no 31 I ran into heavy cloud around Kempton. Despite running through solid cloud to Tunbridge I was lucky enough to get a 30 second burst of sun near Antil Ponds, and I was lucky enough to be there. MKA 2131 and D 2020 lead a paltry 'empty' paper train with a dozen or so wagons heading towards Boyer on Wednesday 5th September at 16.03 No 31 shown passing Bundella in a typical DQ leading MKA's lashup, which has been prevelant lately on trains in the South. DQ 2009 - MKA 2138 and MKA 2131 were the relevant units on this Sunday afternoon at 16.06: date: 11-11-07. DQ2002-DQ2011-DQ2004 are seen on train 32, the Northbound loaded paper train seen approaching Tea Tree Loop in preparation to cross the Southbound empty paper train. Time 18.24 on Thursday 15-11-07 MKA2133- MKA2137- DQ2012 on No 31 are seen shortly after leaving Tea Tree Loop after crossing No 32 there. Thursday 15th November 2007 Units MKA2133- MKA2137- DQ2012 After awaiting the cross with it's prioritised sister the loaded paper train, the empty Southbound paper train [No 31] is seen approaching the Back Tea Tree Road level crossing at 18.41 on Thursday 15-11-07 MKA2133-MKA2137-DQ2012 pass through Brighton with train no 31 in tow on Thursday 15-11-07 After waiting a considerable time at Granton, whilst trains 31 and 32 cleared the Tea Tree - Bridgewater section, no 36 finally hits the road seen on the Bridgewater causeway at 19.14 on Thursday 15th November 2007. Incidentaly 36 left Hobart around 17.30.Units were D2021-ZP2100-DQ2006-DQ2003 On Monday 26th November at 17.57 train no 31 passes Campania with the empty paper train, Boyer bound. Units DQ's 2006, 2003 & 2004. Passing through Rekuna, No 31 will shortly cross the Northbound Burnie freight [ No 36 ]. However it will cool its heels at Tea Tree for two hours, waiting for no 52 ex Boyer before proceeding to it's destination. Monday 26th November ; Time 18.06. A very different angle, taken of train 52 between Dromedary and Bridgewater Junction, Train 52 is northbound with paper products. This train will cross the southbound no 31 which is waiting patiently at Tea Tree. Units MKA 2138/ DQ 2005/ MKA 2137/ DQ 2002. Time 19.26. Nov 26th 2007

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]]> Sat Sep 1 2007 Winter Scenes http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1340751.html Photographs covering the winter period. For most of winter I have been hibernating.!!!. It's been a very cold and quite drab trainwise winter too. Many daytime services which were photographic targets last year were not running this year, so opportunities for photography in the south of the state have been very limited. This combined with the total absence of heritage rail operations meant a quiet winter. However starting in August, a new timetable is in effect, creating some interesting changes down in the south. The additional running of a Bell Bay to Hobart train in addition to the existing overnight Burnie-Hobart train has provided some very interesting running times in the first week of operation. 53 often running in daylight, south from Western Junction. These trains don't both necessarily run on the same days, but some days do. Will be interesting to see the pattern as things settle down. Roll on the spring. Friday 1 June 2007: Photographs covering the winter period. For most of winter I have been hibernating.!!!. It's been a very cold and quite drab trainwise winter too. Many daytime services which were photographic targets last year were not running this year, so opportunities for photography in the south of the state have been very limited. This combined with the total absence of heritage rail operations meant a quiet winter. However starting in August, a new timetable is in effect, creating some interesting changes down in the south. The additional running of a Bell Bay to Hobart train in addition to the existing overnight Burnie-Hobart train has provided some very interesting running times in the first week of operation. 53 often running in daylight, south from Western Junction. These trains don't both necessarily run on the same days, but some days do. Will be interesting to see the pattern as things settle down. Roll on the spring.

'new' MKA 2131 leads an older relation ZP 2100 with a handful of HF coal hoppers ex Hobart on the afternoon of Sunday August 19th, 2007. The train has just left the main at Bridgewater Junction, and is seen here on the Derwent Valley Branch. These locos would also form part of the power for the evenings no 32 paper train. Unusually it appears there was no southbound empty paper train this afternoon. MKA2134/D2021/MKA2131/D2020 crest the roller coaster at Campania, early on Tuesday morning on Tuesday 31st July 2007, Time 08.33. Morning trains heading towards Hobart are mostly backlit, due to the lighting/direction. No 53 passes through the wayside site of Lowdina on Tuesday 31st July 2007, Time 08.25. Well almost an isolated spot, note the dog in the photograph from the unattended property, who took a dislike to me and barked for 10 minutes constantly as the train neared. Fortunatly it ran off as I attempted to get back to my vehicle. Not recommended for video photographers.! MKA2134/D2021/MKA2131/D2020 come off the causeway at Granton with the 'new' service from Bell Bay as train no 53. Also note the 'new' MKA unit, 2131 as third unit, making one of it's first trips down South. Variations in the colour scheme are evident. Tuesday 31st July, 2007, Time 09.22

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]]> Fri Jun 1 2007 Autumn Action http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1228328.html And into the Tasmanian autumn. A lovely time when many of the trees change colour and lose their leaves for winter. Also a good time for the weather [generally], although that's never a certainty down here!!. March is generally regarded as the most stable month. Here is a selection of photos as they occur during this autumn 2007. Best wishes Steve Bromley Sunday 11 March 2007: And into the Tasmanian autumn. A lovely time when many of the trees change colour and lose their leaves for winter. Also a good time for the weather [generally], although that's never a certainty down here!!. March is generally regarded as the most stable month. Here is a selection of photos as they occur during this autumn 2007. Best wishes Steve Bromley

No 36 has attracted plenty of interest during it's 30+ minute delay between Glenorchy and Berriedale. Rumours suggest that persons were reported to be travelling on the consist, accordingly the train was pulled up. Undoubtably if that were the case these individuals would have fled the scene. Perhaps a longer ride to a point where police officers were waiting might have been more effective.??. . Anyhow two curious spectators witness the units loading up for a quick departure from the scene, whilst other bystanders had already moved on. Time 17.24 on Saturday 10-3-07 Another wider view of the delayed no 36 leaving the scene at Berriedale with Saturday afternoons northbound zinc train. Saturday 10-3-07 The empty paper was also running late to-day. Units DQ2003/MKA2137/D2020/D2021 can be seen in an autumn setting, backlit near Antill Ponds. Time 16.11: Thursday 12-4-07 Climbing up through the reverse curves towards Andover, this quad lash up of DQ2003/MKA2137/D2020/D2021 can be seen with the late running no 31 on Thursday 12-4-07 No 35 was very late, as it leaves Newtown and passes under the Brooker Highway. Hobart is only 4kms away. Thursday 12-4-07 A beautiful autumn late afternoon sees no 36 passing through Brighton Quad EE's head north late in the day with train no 36 on Easter Saturday, April 7th 2007 A welcome return to MKA's down South as 2137 shares this hotchpox combo 0f D 2021/D2020/MKA2137/DQ2003 with a long no 35 on the Thursday before easter, 5th April 2007. The train seen here, coming off the causeway at Granton at 10.05 with a very long load, with much of the consist already having been detached at Rogerville. There are very few photographic locations available for a late running train into Hobart in the mornings, hence this being a very well[over] used location. Although on this morning I was fortunate to get a shot at all amongst the 7/8 covered sky of low clouds. A glorious autumn morning at Sheffield, sees Krauss loco no 1 pulling its rake out[ Guards van DB1 and First class passenger car A-1 formerly on the North East Dundas tramway out of Zeehan] of the sheds in preparation for the days passenger roster. Saturday 7th April 2007 A great favourite of visitors is the turning of the 7 tonne Krauss on a small turntable at tracks end, Sheffield Station. Although I didn't try it, I was told that a small child is capable of pushing the loco around. Saturday 7th April 2007: Time 13.25 An interested audience looks on as No 1 couples up to the consist at the platform of Sheffield Station Awaiting departure, Sheffield. Saturday 7th April 2007 Mt Roland forms an idyllic backdrop at the former Roland Branch station of Sheffield. Saturday 7th April 2007 With a lot of huff and puff, Krauss no 1 departs from Sheffield Station, Saturday April 7th 2007. Time 11.04 The little train wends its way back to Sheffield on Saturday 7th April 2007 The dominant Mt. Roland towers over the tiny train, returning to Sheffield. Saturday 7th April 2007: Time 11.23 No 1 negotiates the final few curves prior to terminating another succesful passenger shuttle. Saturday 7th No 1 runs around its train to prepare for yet another passenger trip.Saturday 7th April 2007 Redwater Creek Steam and Heritage Society's Krauss loco can be seen working boiler leading, as it nears the end of another passenger shuttle on Saturday 7th April 2007. Time:13.21 Boyer based ZB unit, 2123 heads back home with some boxes that came South this morning on no 35. The train is passing through Newtown at 14.10. Thursday 12-4-07 DQ units 2003[ missing its Tasrail headboard], 2011. 2002 and 2006 run in a late running no 35 past Rogerville on Thursday March 29th 2007. Time 09.12 No reflections this morning as a stiff westerly whips up the waters at Granton causeway. A B-Double with Patricks loading heading north is forced to give way to a late running no 35 seen at 09.21 with quad DQ units 2003/2011/2002 and 2006 hauling a lengthy consist towards Hobart. Thursday March 29th 2007

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]]> Sun Mar 11 2007 February Favourites http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1198281.html And into the latter part of the Tasmanian summer. Some favourites from Feb. 2007 as they come to hand. The start of the month was somewhat interesting as the overnight train, no 35 that runs into Hobart early in the mornings had some coupling problems with its train between Western Junction and Conara Junction. Accordingly the train ran very late indeed and opened up some interesting photograph locations not usually available. Locos Z 2110/ ZA 2116/ Z 2111 wound through the Midlands well after day break. Thursday 1 February 2007: And into the latter part of the Tasmanian summer. Some favourites from Feb. 2007 as they come to hand. The start of the month was somewhat interesting as the overnight train, no 35 that runs into Hobart early in the mornings had some coupling problems with its train between Western Junction and Conara Junction. Accordingly the train ran very late indeed and opened up some interesting photograph locations not usually available. Locos Z 2110/ ZA 2116/ Z 2111 wound through the Midlands well after day break.

No31 was late out of Burnie, indeed the opposing train no 36 was also late, taking two hours to cover the Devonport-Burnie section. As a result no 31 ran to South Burnie where it then crossed the Z/ZA/Z combo on no 36. As soon as 36 left, D2021-ZR2101-D2020 then departed South Burnie for Devonport, the lifeless industrial landscape forming a backdrop. Sat 3rd Feb 2007, Time: 08.59 Train no 35 with units Z2110/ZA2116/Z2111 pass pretty rural scenes near Hunters Swamp Creek, between Lake Tiberias and Rhyndaston, many hours behind the timetable, 08.58 with train no 35 on Thursday Feb 1st 2007 The train could be heard for miles and eventually the headlight could be seen as the train neared Nala. The train then snaked and wound through the backdrop of this photograph, until finally it passed across the frame and continued through the reverse curves and climbed up towards Andover at 08.26, the train hours behind the table after suffering coupling problems between Western Junction and Conara Junction. Z2110/ZA2116/Z2111 Train no 35, Thursday 1st February 2007 Z2110/ZA2116/Z2111 with train no 35 drop down into Stonor at 08.47. Thursday 1st Feb 2007 Due to a wildcat strike by Pacific National rail crews over safety issues the redundant paper train engines were used to haul 8 empty HF coal hoppers from Boyer to Hobart on Monday morning Feb 5th 2007. The train is seen in this view coming off the branch at Bridgewater Junction. Time 09.56 DQ unit 2010 is well used to dominating the cement train workings in recent years. However on this occasion 2010 looks very subdued by the bright, glinting TT lines Spirit Of Tasmania 1. TheSpirit leaving a bit earlier than normal and the unloading cement train being in the right position for the shot, accumulated in this very unusual photograph at Devonport on Friday 2nd Feb 2007: Time 19.51 Apologies for this somewhat distant shot of ZP2100 leading ZR2101/DQ2009/DQ2002, however such is the dilapidated state of the ZP these days that any half decent photograph needs to be taken at some distance!!. The train [no31] is seen winding along side the Derwent River Estuary approaching Ravenswood. Thursday 1st Feb 2007. Time 18.35 No 31 with units ZP2100/ZR2101/DQ2009/DQ2002 climb upgrade towards Rogerville at 18.18 on Thursday 1st Feb 2007 ZP2100/ZR2101/DQ2009/DQ2002 hugs the hillside around Ravenswood with the empty paper train. The train was a little behind schedule passing here at 18.36 on Thursday 1st Feb 2007 At the end of the day, train no 36 ambles by Goulds Lagoon with the overnight train to Western Junction. EE units Z2111/ZA2116/Z2110 will soon be forced to wait the passage of no 32 ex Boyer at Granton. When 32 clears Tea Tree the train will follow the paper North during the night. Thursday 1st Feb 2007, Time 19.35 The front balcony of the Alexander Hotel at Devonport provides a great opportunity to photograph cement trains unloading at the wharf. Unattended DQ2010 goes about its business from a remote controlled device operated by the driver located in the silos. Friday 2nd Feb 2007: Time 19.45 Every photo has a story. This one, although far from being perfect, has more of a story than most. Fortunatly staying at the Alexander Hotel on the foreshore of Devonport it is possible to photograph the cement train unloading. The early departure of Spirit Of Tasmania 1 led to several events happening that eventuated in this photograph. It certainly would be difficult to replicate due to the extraordinary set of events. Pity though the train moved up at the last moment and I couldn't leave out the darned lampost!!! Friday 2nd Feb 2007: Time 19.52 Fortunatly the ZP was taken off the paper train, the slightly cleaner D 2021 leading ZR 2101 and D 2020 are in no hurry at all as the empty paper train, no 31 leaves Burnie behind and skirts Bass Strait near Wivenhoe on Saturday 3rd Feb 2007: Time 09.07 2021/2101/2020 traverse some of Tasmania's most beautiful coastline with No 31 The empty paper train seen near Lonah on its run from Burnie to Boyer on Saturday 3rd Feb 2007

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]]> Thu Feb 1 2007 January 2007 bits and pieces http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1179311.html Happy New Year all. Have been quiet recently. This has been partly due to some very repetative workings down in the South of the State. Due to loco shortages by Pacific National, only basic services have been operating. Quite often a captive set of EE locos of the Z/ZA classes were used almost exclusively down here for some time. The units would bring in no 35 in the morning, then leave Hobart earlier than usual in the afternoons, stow their load and then run to Boyer. They would then pick up the loaded paper [ no 32] then head for a meeting with the normally late Southbound empty paper [ No 31 ]. Mostly the change over of trains was at Tea Tree, but sometimes it was Colebrook or Parratah. This meant the same 3 or so locos were constantly shuttling in the South, with only rare relief from different locos. More recently DQ class have replaced the EE's, but still the workings remain somewhat repetative. Also the weather has been quite variable. Hopefully the New Year will bring some changes and more variety to Tasmania's ailing motive power. Here are some photographs from January as they come to hand, enjoy, and hopefully 2007 will be a great year for all [ wherever you are ] Best wishes Steve Bromley NOTICE Please note that due to technical difficulties within Fotopic, all photo hit records[ from January 2007 gallery] have been erased. This is somewhat a pity as many photos from this gallery featured amongst the most viewed by visitors during this current years favourites. These favourites represent those photos most viewed by visitors to this site. This also makes a huge difference to how photos are presented in the home page. These photos will now be consigned to the archives and available to those that really wish to dig them up.[ ie removed from the home page list]. I do apologise for this and for the inaccuriaces that will now occur due to problems outside of my control. Steve Bromley Monday 8 January 2007: Happy New Year all. Have been quiet recently. This has been partly due to some very repetative workings down in the South of the State. Due to loco shortages by Pacific National, only basic services have been operating. Quite often a captive set of EE locos of the Z/ZA classes were used almost exclusively down here for some time. The units would bring in no 35 in the morning, then leave Hobart earlier than usual in the afternoons, stow their load and then run to Boyer. They would then pick up the loaded paper [ no 32] then head for a meeting with the normally late Southbound empty paper [ No 31 ]. Mostly the change over of trains was at Tea Tree, but sometimes it was Colebrook or Parratah. This meant the same 3 or so locos were constantly shuttling in the South, with only rare relief from different locos. More recently DQ class have replaced the EE's, but still the workings remain somewhat repetative. Also the weather has been quite variable. Hopefully the New Year will bring some changes and more variety to Tasmania's ailing motive power. Here are some photographs from January as they come to hand, enjoy, and hopefully 2007 will be a great year for all [ wherever you are ] Best wishes Steve Bromley NOTICE Please note that due to technical difficulties within Fotopic, all photo hit records[ from January 2007 gallery] have been erased. This is somewhat a pity as many photos from this gallery featured amongst the most viewed by visitors during this current years favourites. These favourites represent those photos most viewed by visitors to this site. This also makes a huge difference to how photos are presented in the home page. These photos will now be consigned to the archives and available to those that really wish to dig them up.[ ie removed from the home page list]. I do apologise for this and for the inaccuriaces that will now occur due to problems outside of my control. Steve Bromley

Locos 2137/2021/2134/2101 on 31 Empty paper is seen passing by Bundella, almost at Boyer.Time 17.52 Monday Jan 15th finds no 31 empty paper approaching Campania running close to on time. For a change it will wok through to Boyer to pick the loaded paper train no 32. Time 16.50 Locos 2137/2021/2134/2101 No 31 passes Dromedary on the Derwent Valley Branch on the last leg of its journey to Boyer. Time 17.48 Monday January 15th 2007 Locos 2137/2021/2134/2101 31 climbs towards the former station site at Andover, with a foggy background with units 2101/2134/2021/2137 on Thursday January 18th 2007. Time 19.09 [Yes it is evening!!!] From clear stinking hot weather, suddenly the weather changed as only Tasmania can do. A blanket of fog descended and I stood freezing taking this shot near Andover. Time 19.06 Thursday January 18th 2007 A brief reprieve from the fog saw lovely light illuminating 2101-2134-2021-2137 passing through Parrattah Station on no 31. Time 19.36 Thursday 18th January 2007 Late running No 31 through Tunbridge at 18.04 with units 2101-2134-2021-2137. Thursday Jan 18th 2007 All three MKS's 2137/2134/2138 plus D 2021 worked train 31 South on Monday 8th Jan 2007, the train seen passing through the former Brighton Station site. Time 19.21 2137/2134/2138/2021 crest at the level crossing approaching the former Campania railway station site, with the empty paper [ train 31 ] bound for Boyer. Monday 8th Jan 2007: Time; 18.20 Train 31 is seen leaving Bridgewater Junction on the Derwent Valley Branch heading towards Boyer Monday 8th Jan 2007. Time 19.34 A brief patch of sunshine illuminates no 31 as it passes through Parrattah, and heads towards Boyer on Thursday 18th January 2007. 2134/2101/2138/2021/2123d/a run a late running no 35 off the causeway at Granton on Tuesday morning at 08.18. 2134/2101/2138/2021/2123d/a drop down towards Bridgewater Junction from Rogerville on Tuesday 9-1-07 Time 08.11 Train no 35 reflects on its quin lash up as it runs its late running train off the causeway and through to journeys end at Hobart. Tuesday 9-1-07

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]]> Mon Jan 8 2007 November odds and ends http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1130747.html November got off to a terrible start for Pacific National. On the 30th of October, during that Monday evening, a routine inspection of the lift span at Bridgewater revealed severe corrosion problems with the wire cables holding up two 170 tonne concrete counterweights dangling over the main Hobart to Launceston Highway!!. This also affected all railway and river traffic in addition to creating all kinds of traffic problems as vehicles were forced to use the Tasman or Bowen Bridges and travel via the East Shore. The Main Hobart to Burnie rail line was also truncated at the bridge, forming an isolated rail system from Granton to Hobart, trapping a loaded freight train heading north in the process. Unfortunatly the train had been stabled at Granton, whilst the train engines were run to Boyer. So after the emergency closure of the bridge the train was stranded, with its engines on the wrong side of the bridge!!. Since the repair and re-opening of the bridge the following Monday evening [ Nov 6th ], all freight to and from Hobart has travelled by road, including freight that was trapped on the isolated train. Hopefully this incident will not further reduce freight tonnage on this overnight service. Of course whilst road, rail and river traffic had to cease, only road traffic was able to divert, so as usual road freight got an advantage, although unintentional. More bad luck for rail. This months photographs will be added as November progresses. Best wishes Steve Bromley Wednesday 1 November 2006: November got off to a terrible start for Pacific National. On the 30th of October, during that Monday evening, a routine inspection of the lift span at Bridgewater revealed severe corrosion problems with the wire cables holding up two 170 tonne concrete counterweights dangling over the main Hobart to Launceston Highway!!. This also affected all railway and river traffic in addition to creating all kinds of traffic problems as vehicles were forced to use the Tasman or Bowen Bridges and travel via the East Shore. The Main Hobart to Burnie rail line was also truncated at the bridge, forming an isolated rail system from Granton to Hobart, trapping a loaded freight train heading north in the process. Unfortunatly the train had been stabled at Granton, whilst the train engines were run to Boyer. So after the emergency closure of the bridge the train was stranded, with its engines on the wrong side of the bridge!!. Since the repair and re-opening of the bridge the following Monday evening [ Nov 6th ], all freight to and from Hobart has travelled by road, including freight that was trapped on the isolated train. Hopefully this incident will not further reduce freight tonnage on this overnight service. Of course whilst road, rail and river traffic had to cease, only road traffic was able to divert, so as usual road freight got an advantage, although unintentional. More bad luck for rail. This months photographs will be added as November progresses. Best wishes Steve Bromley

After a weeks closure rail and road traffic was again allowed to proceed across the span at Bridgewater. This photo shows road freight with its nose in front as containers head north on the main highway, as single light engine MKA 2137 performs line proceedures as it hauls itself towards Boyer on Melbourne Cup Day. Tuesday 7th November 2006 : Time 08.24. I think the last week has seen a good race by road traffic by taking the inside lane, with rail forced out wide as we hit the home straight.!!!!

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]]> Wed Nov 1 2006 October bits and pieces http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1108842.html Some photos taken in October, updated as the month unfolds. Thursday 12 October 2006: Some photos taken in October, updated as the month unfolds.

Looking somewhat overdone as 4 EE locos hauling a 10 wagon, late running number no 35 freight coming off the causeway at Granton. The train however had detached some loading at Rogerville The units Z 2113, ZA 2116, ZA 2114, Z 2110. Time: 08.26 on Friday the 13th of October 2006 Z 2113/ZA2116/ZA2114/Z2110 ease a short late running no 35 across the causeway, approaching Granton. Due to the short length of the train, motorists will only have a short wait at the crossing, as the peak hour traffic flows into Hobart. Friday 13th Oct, 2006, Time 08.25 With increasing rarity these days this vista shows GM power in the form of DQ 2002/DQ2006 and D 2020 coming off the causeway, with driver Steve Jeffs at the controls. The loading was 35 wagons long. Thursday 26th October 2006 No31 crosses the wooden trestle over the Jordan Rier at Brighton at 17.01- Units ZP2100/ZR2101/DQ2006 : f10@320th iso200: focal length 50mm using 28-135mm zoom ZP2100/ZR2101/DQ2006 leave Bridgewater on the branch, with the pleasant River Derwent waters in the background, with train 31. The consist being 16 loaded wagons of boxes and paper pulp and 11 empty flats= 27 wagons total. Time 17.22. f 10@400th iso200: focal length 28mm using 28-135mm zoom. Sunday 15th October 2006 After an early departure from Hobart due to the late running of 31, the train is seen passing the former Berriedale Station Site. Beside the rail track is the photgraphically unfriendly bicycle track. Although I'm sure there are far less train photographers than bicycle riders to complain about the lost photo spots. Tuesday 24th October 2006:Time 16.45 ZB2123 returns from Hobart with a trip train en route to Boyer passing this picturesque spot on the branch leaving Bridgewater Junction. Tuesday 24th October 2006, Time 15.25 On this spotless Hobart Show Day Public holiday sees no 35 dropping down to Bridgewater Junction from Rogerville. The man walking his dog shows little interest with the train as it rumbles by with another load of intermodal traffic. Thursday 26th October 2006 It's a beautiful spring morning at Tea Tree. The frost still lingers in the shaded paddocks. There is not a cloud in the sky, and its Hobart Show Day Public holiday to boot!!. Also no 35 is running somewhat late with a welcome return of GM power with DQ's 2002 and 2006 plus D 2020 , snaking out of Tea Tree with a string of 35 wagons containing boxes and intermodal loading. Thurs 26th Oct, 2006 : Time 07.30 No 32 under way with 'borrowed engines' off 35/36 to keep the paper on schedule. Monday 23rd Oct 2006: Time 18.44 With a load of 28 wagons of paper, many of which are 60 foot wagons containing 3 modules each, the train is seen passing Bundella towards Bridgewater Junction on Monday 23rd Oct 2006 As the light fades, there is still enough though to glint off the paper modules, as the train rounds a curve at Ravenswood with no 32, the paper train on Monday 23rd Oct 2006: 18.52 With no 31 running very late to-day, the engines off 35/36 were utilised to haul out no 32 ex Boyer. The units off 31 will then be utilised to head no 36 north, after depositing the empties at Boyer. Monday23rd Oct 2006: Time 17.53

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]]> Thu Oct 12 2006 Sunday 10th September 2006 http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c1078646.html Sunday 10th September 2006, dawned a beautiful day and stayed that way all day. This was most pleasant as we've had some pretty ordinary weather lately. Went out to cover no 36, which consisted of ZR 2101/DQ 2011/ZP2100, this had its normal loading of container boxes, with a string of graffited HF empty coal hoppers at the rear. This train proceeded to Tea Tree to cross the Southbound no 31, empty paper train. The following photos are what I was able to get as the light faded at the end of the day. PLEASE NOTE: For sharper images please click onto full size and then right click to view on your computer. There is a fall off in image quality from the initial images displayed. I plan to address this problem shortly. This is however in the fotopic presentation as the full size option will show!!!! Sunday 10 September 2006: Sunday 10th September 2006, dawned a beautiful day and stayed that way all day. This was most pleasant as we've had some pretty ordinary weather lately. Went out to cover no 36, which consisted of ZR 2101/DQ 2011/ZP2100, this had its normal loading of container boxes, with a string of graffited HF empty coal hoppers at the rear. This train proceeded to Tea Tree to cross the Southbound no 31, empty paper train. The following photos are what I was able to get as the light faded at the end of the day. PLEASE NOTE: For sharper images please click onto full size and then right click to view on your computer. There is a fall off in image quality from the initial images displayed. I plan to address this problem shortly. This is however in the fotopic presentation as the full size option will show!!!!

After crossing no 36 at Tea Tree loop, the impressive sight of D 2021/MKA 2134/MKA 2137/D 2020 can be seen catching the last rays of spring sunshine, seen side on approaching Back Tea Tree Road crossing. Presumably in years to come this shot will not be possible due to those seedling trees growing up!!. Time 17.20: f6.3 @ 320th: iso 200 : focal length 65mm using a 28-135mm zoom on a 6.1 mp Canon EOS 300D ZR 2101/DQ 2011/ZP 2100 approaching the level crossing at Back Tea Tree Road, shortly before arriving at Tea Tree Loop to wait for No 31 paper train to cross. Time 16.39 : f8 @ 320th : iso 200 : 53mm focal length using a 28mm-135mm zoom on a 6.1 mp camera ZR 2101/DQ 2011/ZP 2100 passing through the former Brighton Station on Sunday 10-9-06 at 16.33 : f8 @ 320th : iso 200 : focal length 75mm using a 28mm-135mm zoom. 6.1.mp Canon EOS 300D ZR 2101/DQ 2011/ ZP 2100 approach the old station site at Granton, which is now used as a fettlers depot, at 16.13 on Sunday 10-9-06. f8 @ 400th: iso 200 : focal length 85mm on a 28-135mm zoom.

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]]> Sun Sep 10 2006 Northern and North Western Tasmania http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c755841.html This collection covers the Northern and North Western areas of Tasmania, from Western Junction. Includes the line 'down the hill' to Launceston [East Tamar], to Bell Bay, past Coldwater Creek Junction, the former junction for the North East Line. Also westbound from Western Juunction, through Hagley and Deloraine to Devonport, Burnie and the former Emu Bay Railway down to Melba Flats. Tuesday 8 November 2005: This collection covers the Northern and North Western areas of Tasmania, from Western Junction. Includes the line 'down the hill' to Launceston [East Tamar], to Bell Bay, past Coldwater Creek Junction, the former junction for the North East Line. Also westbound from Western Juunction, through Hagley and Deloraine to Devonport, Burnie and the former Emu Bay Railway down to Melba Flats.

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]]> Tue Nov 8 2005 Southern Tasmanian Workings http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c732981.html This section overs the Main Line from Rogerville to Parattah. After the climb up to Rogerville its downhill to Brighton. Another climb out of Brighton and then through the first loop, at Tea Tree. Then the line climbs to Rekuna and drops down to Campania. From here the line hugs the side of the range, well away from the main road until Colebrook is almost reached. From here is the notorius climb up to Rhyndaston Tunnel. The line not only climbs steeply, but through very tight curves including Coal Mine Bend and up to the tunnel. Many trains have failed in this section. On one night both no 32 and no 36 freights stalled, to be rescued by units off the following trains, ie no 36 and no 44.!!! Sometimes the two trains would combine or other times the following units would cut off their train and push up the stalled train, then detach past the tunnel and return to pick up their train. Once past Rhyndaston the line is a bit easier passing Lake Tiberias, Stoner and then Parattah, where there is another loop. Thursday 20 October 2005: This section overs the Main Line from Rogerville to Parattah. After the climb up to Rogerville its downhill to Brighton. Another climb out of Brighton and then through the first loop, at Tea Tree. Then the line climbs to Rekuna and drops down to Campania. From here the line hugs the side of the range, well away from the main road until Colebrook is almost reached. From here is the notorius climb up to Rhyndaston Tunnel. The line not only climbs steeply, but through very tight curves including Coal Mine Bend and up to the tunnel. Many trains have failed in this section. On one night both no 32 and no 36 freights stalled, to be rescued by units off the following trains, ie no 36 and no 44.!!! Sometimes the two trains would combine or other times the following units would cut off their train and push up the stalled train, then detach past the tunnel and return to pick up their train. Once past Rhyndaston the line is a bit easier passing Lake Tiberias, Stoner and then Parattah, where there is another loop.

A very rare working indeed at the time. ZB's 2121/2123/2128 crest the roller coaster at Tea Tree with no43 . Pentax 6x7 150mm lens f8@250th Monday 17-9-01 ZA units 2114/2117/2115 run out to meet a late running paper train, passing Brighton. This saves alot of time and prevents no 32 from running too late. On this occasion the exchange will take place at Tea Tree. The ZA's will return to Boyer with the empties off no 31 and resume duties at Boyer prior to working out no 44 later that night. Tuesday 5-2-02: 18.50: f5.6@250th: Pentax6x7 150mm lens X-4 returns north to its home at Don River. On Monday 1-4-02, after running out of the fog banks the train is seen having just passed Tea Tree Loop. 09.45: f5.6-8@250th: Pentax 6x7, 150mm lens. On the morning of Tuesday 9-4-02, Train no 35 partially derailed on the curve between Tea Tree Loop and Back Tea Tree Road. Here is the general scene. Interesting as now a house sits on the site, anyone for any flour?!!!. : 14.30 f5.6@500th Pentax6x7 150mm lens Locos DQ 2009/ QR 2102/ DQ 2006 were the units on no 35 that morning. A crane and plant machinary can be seen cleanng up. Wagons, bogies facing up can be seen in the foreground. :9-4-02: 14.30: f5.6@500th : Pentax6x7 150mm lens TTMS owned DP26 passing through the village of Colebrook.Tueday Nov 18th, 2003: 10.03: f8.3@340th: Finepix A210 camera DP26 makes light work of the climb up towards Rhyndaston Tunnel.Time: 10.19: f7.2@400th: 100 iso : Finepix A210 camera Snow on the ranges highlight this ballast special sent to repair a damaged section in the Lowdina area after a derailment. The train seen near Rekuna Z 2111 + Z 2110 pass through Campania en route to the Lowdina area to repair damaged track after a derailment. ZR2101/DQ2003/D2021 are seen in beautiful backlit lighting, leaving Tea Tree Loop, after crossing no 36 there. Mount Dromedary dominates the backdrop. Sunday 10-7-05: 16.07: f5.6@1000th: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom, set at 135mm: Canon eos300D Not much ligh to play with here as 2101/2003/2021 pass through Brighton at 16.14 on Sunday 10-7-05: f5@400th: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom, set at 33mm: Canon EOS300D Just fits in!!!. DP 26 captured on a main line tour between Tea Tree and Rekuna At the end of a windy, cold winters day, the surroundings of Tea Tree Loop are gently illuminated by an MKA headlight as darkness approaches. Train 36 makes its way North on Sat 8th July 2006 at 17.55: 40th sec @ f5.6 ZA's 2117/2118 and 2116 working hard up towards Rogerville, having just past Brighton with no 43, Boyer bound freight, Monday 22-10-2001 DQ's 2001/2009/2005 are seen snaking out of Tea Tree on a fine spring morning with a late running no 35 to Hobart. Tues 1-11-05: time 07.09: f8@250th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom set at 120mm. Canon EOS300D D2021/DQ2012/D2020 on no 36, approaching the crossing at Back Tea Tree Road. 5-11-05: Time 19.36: f4.5@320th/sec: iso400: 28-135mm zoom set at 50mm: Canon EOS300D DQ's 2005/2004/2002 are seen approaching Tea Tree Loop to cross no 31. 2002 is a very rare visitor these days mainly due to its very poor reliability, a real lemon. Wed 23-11-05: 18.22: f8@200th: iso200: 28-135mm zoom set at 60mm: Canon EOS300D DQ units 2005/2004/2002 take the northbound no 32 paper train. Unusually this train crossed its counterpart, no 31 at Tea Tree. Normally 31/32 run as one train. Wed Nov 23rd 2005. Time 18.23: f8@320th, iso 200: 28-135mm zoom set at 117mm: Canon EOS300D Train no 36 passing the former loop at Rhyndaston.Units DQ2012/DQ2003/D2021/DQ2002. Sunday 15th Jan 06: Time 18.40: f5.6@640th: iso200: 28-135mm zoom, set at 70mm It's late, in fact it's 20.08 on a hot Friday. The rails, fencing and telephone wires are glistening in the late backlit light. Then a roar of rowdy GM's shatters the peace as 2008-2021-2020 climb out of Brighton with a late running no 32 paper train. Friday 20-1-06: 20.08: f7.1@1250th/sec: iso 400th: Lens 28-135mm zoom set at 120mm The light almost gone. the soft backlighting really flatters the very grubby 2100 as the train crawls through Tea Tree Time 18.11 Climbing out of Brighton, with the former station site in the background. Time 18.02

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]]> Thu Oct 20 2005 Rails through the Hobart Environs http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c732954.html This collection covers various workings inside the Hobart Metropolitan area. For the purposes of this website this stretches from Hobart yard limits [ near the Tasman Bridge] to Rogerville, some 25 kilometres north of Hobart .This short section includes some very nice locations situated so conveniently to rail enthusiasts living in the Hobart area. Also this area covers the Derwent Valley Branch from Bridgewater Junction to Boyer and New Norfolk. However some spots have been recently spoilt due to extensions of the cycle track running from The Domain to almost Claremont Village. This track is laid mainly on the former second track bed before it was torn up to become a single line. Other threats recently have placed this line in some jeopardy, including a parcel of land purchased at Rogerville to house a new freight terminal. Although this proposal has gone quiet as of late. The rail/road bridge at Bridgewater, despite plans for a new high level road bridge just south of the present structure appears to be safe due to heritage reasons. This would appear to ensure rail can continue to access Hobart providing of course there is such traffic offering. Rogerville these days acts more as a transfer point and sidings for traffic to or from the Derwent Valley Branch. Thursday 20 October 2005: This collection covers various workings inside the Hobart Metropolitan area. For the purposes of this website this stretches from Hobart yard limits [ near the Tasman Bridge] to Rogerville, some 25 kilometres north of Hobart .This short section includes some very nice locations situated so conveniently to rail enthusiasts living in the Hobart area. Also this area covers the Derwent Valley Branch from Bridgewater Junction to Boyer and New Norfolk. However some spots have been recently spoilt due to extensions of the cycle track running from The Domain to almost Claremont Village. This track is laid mainly on the former second track bed before it was torn up to become a single line. Other threats recently have placed this line in some jeopardy, including a parcel of land purchased at Rogerville to house a new freight terminal. Although this proposal has gone quiet as of late. The rail/road bridge at Bridgewater, despite plans for a new high level road bridge just south of the present structure appears to be safe due to heritage reasons. This would appear to ensure rail can continue to access Hobart providing of course there is such traffic offering. Rogerville these days acts more as a transfer point and sidings for traffic to or from the Derwent Valley Branch.

An almost extinct location at Claremont sees ZA 2116 and Z 2113 pass by with no 38 Hobart to Boyer Freight. The bicycle track construction is well under way. Tuesday 26th July 2005. The rare sight of two ZB classes on a trip working from Boyer to Rogerville and return. These workings were once very common due to a build up of empty log wagons at Boyer The then usual early afternoon departure from Hobart, with loading for Boyer as train no 38. This loading would then be onforwarded North from Boyer that night. DP 26 is welcomed to New Norfolk by its trademark foggy conditions, whilst working a special on the Derwent Valley Branch 2011/2006/2009 No36 about to cross the Midland Highway heading north at Granton 19.03, Wednesday 9-1-02: f4@500th Pentax 6 x 7, 150mm lens DQ2011/QR2062/DQ2007 just beat cloud coming in from an easterly seabreeze as train no 36 starts its journey northbound at Newtown only 4kms from Hobart. Friday 18-1-02: 18.39 X4 resplendant in its A.N. colour scheme on a special passenger, heading towards New Norfolk and points west. Sunday 31-3-02: time 10.05: Pentax x7 with 150mm lens How sweet it is!!!, DP Railcar no 26 passes Claremont, the famous Cadburys chocolate factory can be seen in the background. Sunday 23-11-03: Time 14.55 A trio of EE units ease no 38 to Boyer over the causeway at Bridgewater back on a very bleak Thursday 24th June 2004 at around 15.30. The Cartela passes under the span of Bridgewater's Derwent River bridge. 10-4-05. Time 11.01. ZP2100/D2021/ZR2101 slowly cross the causeway linking Bridgwater with Granton on no 35. Friday 29th September 2006 With no trains in the South due to a derailment at Western Junction, saw ZB2123 do a trip to Hobart. The train is seen returning to Boyer with presumably urgentl loading to attach later. Time: 15.46, 28-135mm lens set at 105mm iso 200: Mon June 19th 2006 ZB2123 approaches Claremont with a load of empty boxes and coal hoppers for Hobart on Friday 4th August 2006 DP 26 is reflected in the still waters of Goulds Lagoon near Austins Ferry. An elevated view of no 36 on the causeway at Bridgewater. Units Z2112/ZA's 2116/2117/2115/Z2113. Sunday 30-10-05: Time 15.13: f7.1@250th: iso 100: 28-135mm zoom set at 122mm: Canon EOS 300D An elevated look at no 36 coming off the bridge at Bridgewater. Z2112/ZA2116/ZA2117/ZA2115/Z2113 are the power. Sun 30-10-05: Time 15.14: f7.1@250th: iso 100: 28-135mm zoom set at 135mm: Canon EOS300D A different perspective of no 31, the paper train, as it wnds its way through Bridgewater Junction on its way to Boyer on the Derwent Valley Branch. Also the Pasminco zinc works is quite prominent in the background.. Sunday 30th Oct 2005: Time 16.42: f8@400th: iso 200: 28-135 zoom, set at 112mm: Canon EOS300D GM units, DQ class nos 2001/2009/2005 are seen coming off the causeway at Granton, blocking the peak traffic on the main road in the process. Tuesday 1-11-05: Time 07.36: f9@320th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom set at 100mm: Canon EOS300D Saturday 5th November saw a 55 wagon long train heading out of Hobart around the 18.40 mark. The train is seen weaving its way off the bridge at Bridgewater Junction. D2021/DQ2012/D2020 were the power. Time 19.17: f5@640th/sec: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom set at 75mm: Canon EOS300D Train no 43 crawling through Dromedary with a 30kp/h speed restriction due to the hot weather. Fri 20th Jan 2006: f8@320th:iso200: 28-135mm zoom lens set at 85mm On a hot summer's afternoon, a colourful lashup on train no 43 to Boyer, seen passing Bundella at 18.31: Fri 20-1-06: f9@320th:iso200: lens 28-135mm zoom set at maximum 135mm The soft, silvery backlighting actually flatters these rather unkempt locos!!!. 2008-2021-2020 make a somewhat late departure from Boyer, seen here with the paper on no 32, passing Bundella at 19.43. Fri 20-1-06: f8@800th: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom lens set to 47mm

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]]> Thu Oct 20 2005 Views in and around Hobart Yard http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c732771.html Hobart Yard is a great place to observe rail operations. Great views can be had by walking around The Domain above the rail yards. In the winter it also provides great lighting for photography. Most times of the year it is possible to photograph movements by walking around, without encroaching on railway property. Here are a few examples taken over the last three or so years. Wednesday 19 October 2005: Hobart Yard is a great place to observe rail operations. Great views can be had by walking around The Domain above the rail yards. In the winter it also provides great lighting for photography. Most times of the year it is possible to photograph movements by walking around, without encroaching on railway property. Here are a few examples taken over the last three or so years.

EE locos, set in an almost alpine vista An MKA unit in Hobart. No 2137 seen on 19-12-05 in Hobart for training purposes and perhaps a morale boost for the local crews.!!! The old and the not quite so old!!. MKA unit 2137 formerly a ZC class seen coupled to Y 2151 in Hobart Yard 19-12-05 One of two locos painted in the red colour scheme Z 2111 'Bell Bay Pioneer' slumbers in Hobart Yard Z2112 receives attention before its run out on no 36 that night Prior to re-painting, ZR 2101 seen in Hobart Yard Railcars DP 13 and 14 make a temporary 'station' for their passengers at the Domain, near te regatta grandstand on Thursday 29-11-01. The Burnie Rail train having come south on a tours charter. Time: 16.05. Pentax 6x7, 150mm lens D2021/DQ2012/D2020 pull forward and then set back to pick up further loading for this evenings departure to Burnie. Saturday 5th November 2005: Time 18.14: f11@200th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom, set at 28mm: Canon EOS300D

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]]> Wed Oct 19 2005 West Coast Wilderness Railway [abt.] http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c728464.html The West Coast Wilderness Railway has been a tourism venture, re-opening the old mining line that was unique in using a rack system to combat 1 in 17 grades. Also the two steam locos nos 1 and 3 according to the official website are probalbly the oldest fully restored working locomotives in the world. Indeed No 1 ''Mt. Lyell'' was at the original railways opening back in March 1897. The line is about 35kilometres long running from Queenstown to Regatta Point [ Strahan]. Friday 11 February 2005: The West Coast Wilderness Railway has been a tourism venture, re-opening the old mining line that was unique in using a rack system to combat 1 in 17 grades. Also the two steam locos nos 1 and 3 according to the official website are probalbly the oldest fully restored working locomotives in the world. Indeed No 1 ''Mt. Lyell'' was at the original railways opening back in March 1897. The line is about 35kilometres long running from Queenstown to Regatta Point [ Strahan].

D-1 at Regatta Point after running around its train 11-2-05 Another view of D1 at Regatta Point 11-2-05 D-1 after arriving at Strahan 11-2-05 No1 leaving Queenstown, Strahan bound 11-2-05 No1 in Queenstown station ready to leave with the morning train 11-2-05 No1 at Queenstown 11-2-05

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]]> Fri Feb 11 2005 North East Branch to Tonganah [ formerly Herrick ] http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c728159.html This was my favourite area on the Tasmanian rail system. It became the first casualty of Pacific Nationals takeover. The section of track from Coldwater Creek Junction to Tonganah is now a suspended service. The line is unlikely to ever see another train. The line formerly winded its way across the ranges to Herrick. The line was lifted to just east Tonganah. The section from C.C.J. to Lilydale was rather hard to cover as the line traversed isolated areas, hard to reach by vehicle. The area around Lilydale was great with much scope. The line progressed eastbound through the old narrow tunnel, through Lebrina, Wyena, Nabowla, Lietinna to Scottsdale. At Scottsdale stands an impressive station building, now deteriorating away. Once upon a time all kinds of goods were loaded in the yard. Prior to the lines demise, the yard was bare and there was no indication of the stations former prosperity. East of Scottsdale was the important Ling Siding, where manufactured wood products were loaded. Also some other products were loaded there, including onions. The plant also received pine logs on the outbound train. A short distance away was Tonganah Loop and just a couple of kilometres the end of the line in another wood manufacturing plant. Now all the loading, which was admittedly spasmodic now travels by road. This road is a shocker and very dangerous indeed. Another 60 kilometres of rail service gone. This also saw the end of the English Electric ZC class, this line being its last hurrah. Sunday 16 October 2005: This was my favourite area on the Tasmanian rail system. It became the first casualty of Pacific Nationals takeover. The section of track from Coldwater Creek Junction to Tonganah is now a suspended service. The line is unlikely to ever see another train. The line formerly winded its way across the ranges to Herrick. The line was lifted to just east Tonganah. The section from C.C.J. to Lilydale was rather hard to cover as the line traversed isolated areas, hard to reach by vehicle. The area around Lilydale was great with much scope. The line progressed eastbound through the old narrow tunnel, through Lebrina, Wyena, Nabowla, Lietinna to Scottsdale. At Scottsdale stands an impressive station building, now deteriorating away. Once upon a time all kinds of goods were loaded in the yard. Prior to the lines demise, the yard was bare and there was no indication of the stations former prosperity. East of Scottsdale was the important Ling Siding, where manufactured wood products were loaded. Also some other products were loaded there, including onions. The plant also received pine logs on the outbound train. A short distance away was Tonganah Loop and just a couple of kilometres the end of the line in another wood manufacturing plant. Now all the loading, which was admittedly spasmodic now travels by road. This road is a shocker and very dangerous indeed. Another 60 kilometres of rail service gone. This also saw the end of the English Electric ZC class, this line being its last hurrah.

ZC's 2145 and 2144 with only 2145 powering make their way towards East Tamar, loading was light with 5 loaded [ wooden products] and 1 empty. Tuesday 2-3-04: Pentax 6x7, 150mm lens No55 starts its trip westbound to East Tamar, as it pulls away from Tonganah with units 2145 and 2144 on train no 55: 16.35: Tuesday 2-3-04: Pentax 6x7 150mm lens ZC's 2145 and 2144 burst out of typically wooded country between Ling Siding and Scottsdale at 17.00 on Monday 22-3-04: Camera Pentax 6x7 using 150mm lens Train no 55 with ZC units 2145 and 2144 crawl through Scottsdale yard, passing the old station building which is boarded up and deteriorating. Monday 22-3-04: Time 17.10. Cameral : Pentax 6 x 7 using 150mm lens. Gingerly easing through tight radius curves and the bridge, units 2145 and 2144 approach Liettina on Monday 22-3-04. Time 17.17: Camera Pentax 6 x 7: Lens 150mm. No 55 passes Wyena at the KPN38 marker en route to East Tamar with units 2145 and 2144 [ZC class]. Time 18.10 : Monday 22-3-04: Camera Pentax 6x7 using 150mm lens. ZC's 2145 and 2144 pass through Lebrinna with train no 55 to East Tamar ex Tonganah. Monday 22-3-04 : Time 18.22: Camera Pentax 6 x 7 using 150mm lens Train 55 with units ZC's 2145/2144 approach Lilydale at the end of the day. Monday 22-3-04: Time 18.45. Camera Pentax 6x7, 150mm lens Train 55 climbing out of Lilydale in most picturesque countryside: Monday 18.49: Pentax 6x7, 150mm lens

Published in TRAINS IN TASMANIA

]]> Sun Oct 16 2005 Trains through the Midlands http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c728077.html I refer to the Midlands area as being the section from Parattah, north to Western Junction. This is probalbly not technically correct as the Midlands extends further south, but this will be covered in another collection. However it will be easier to group together various photos from my back collection this way to show certain aspects of operations in these different geographical areas. This section is very interesting from a photographic viewpoint. From Parattah the line twists and turns, and around Andover there are numerous opportunities in a short distance. The line passes through Nala and then around the curvy Tin Dish deviation, and finally the line meets the main highway for the drop down through Antill Ponds to Tunbridge. The scenary changes somewhat from here northwards over plains and a generally flat topography. The trains get a move on through this section too. Conara is a major, but unmanned station, where various trains are stabled and rakes of loaded and unloaded log and coal wagons are stabled in numerous sidings. This is also the junction for the Fingal branch and a fettlers compound is also situated there. Some train crew are also assigned to Conara and it is a major crew change over point. North from Conara the line is fairly straight and passes some very uninspiring scrubby countryside through places such as Cleveland and Epping Forest. Powranna, its deviation, new earthworks and cuttings giving some opportunities. There the line leaves the road and passes near Evandale before arriving at the very interesting junction next to Launceston Airport, known as Western Junction Sunday 16 October 2005: I refer to the Midlands area as being the section from Parattah, north to Western Junction. This is probalbly not technically correct as the Midlands extends further south, but this will be covered in another collection. However it will be easier to group together various photos from my back collection this way to show certain aspects of operations in these different geographical areas. This section is very interesting from a photographic viewpoint. From Parattah the line twists and turns, and around Andover there are numerous opportunities in a short distance. The line passes through Nala and then around the curvy Tin Dish deviation, and finally the line meets the main highway for the drop down through Antill Ponds to Tunbridge. The scenary changes somewhat from here northwards over plains and a generally flat topography. The trains get a move on through this section too. Conara is a major, but unmanned station, where various trains are stabled and rakes of loaded and unloaded log and coal wagons are stabled in numerous sidings. This is also the junction for the Fingal branch and a fettlers compound is also situated there. Some train crew are also assigned to Conara and it is a major crew change over point. North from Conara the line is fairly straight and passes some very uninspiring scrubby countryside through places such as Cleveland and Epping Forest. Powranna, its deviation, new earthworks and cuttings giving some opportunities. There the line leaves the road and passes near Evandale before arriving at the very interesting junction next to Launceston Airport, known as Western Junction

DC4588 and DQ 2007 head their train, no 33 through Tunbridge Loop, bound for Hobart. Sat 23-2-02. 18.35 Pentax6x7 150mm lens f4@500th Train 33 at Tunbridge Sat 23-2-02 Time 18.35 Pentax 6x7 150mm lens f4@ 500th The train having passed Antill Ponds now nears the Tin Dish Deviation. Pentax 6x7 150mm lens Time 18.50 f4@500th Final shot as the light fades at the end of the day, this odd pair of kiwi locos Hobart bound. Pentax6x7 150mm lens f5.6@250th. 19.20 Z2112/Z2111 with Train 46 [ as it was known then] arrives at Conara about 08.00 off the Fingal Branch. Light load of 8 pine and 8 coal. No43 passing through Ross on Sat 18th October 2003. This train ran as an extra, with container boxes destined for Hobart. Time 08.37: Pentax 6 x 7, 150mm lens No43 with 17 wagons of containers, Hobart bound behind ZA's 2117 and 2118 seen passing the former Antill Ponds station site 09.10, Sat Oct 18th 2003 Taken when no 43 became a spasmodic runner. On Sat 18-10-03 ZA's 2117/2118 ran as a container train through to Hobart. Seen near Andover at 09.36. Pentax 6x7 camera, 150mm lens Train no 36 is seen passing through Parratah at 16.30 on a sunny Saturday afternoon 17-4-04. DQ 2008-D 2021- QR 2062- DQ 2003 were the power. Departure from Hobart was around 14.00 D2021/ZP2100/DQ2003/ZA2116/ZA2117 pass through Tunbridge Loop heading south. 27-6-05: Time 15.50: f6.3@320th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom, set at 100mm: Canon EOS300D Quin lash up D2021/ZP2100/DQ2003/ZA2116/ZA211 provide motive power variety on train 31 seen glinting late in the day, near Antill Ponds: 27-6-05: 16.08 f5.6@400th: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom, set at 105mm: Canon EOS300D ZR2101/DQ2003/D2021 whipping its load through the reverse curves near Andover. Loading was 28 wagons, 4 o which were empty. 10-7-05: Time 14.12: f8@400th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom set at 112mm Canon EOS300D 2117 and 2118 Mona Vale. Train 43 At 19.18 on a beautiful Sunday evening sees train 1-36 with a DQ/DQ/D/DQ lash up on the northbound zinc train, negotiating the reverse curves near Nala. Sunday 15th January 2006: 19.18: f8@400th:iso 200: 28-135mm zooms set at 47mm DQ2012/DQ2003/D2021/DQ2002 near Nala on train 1-36, Sunday's load of zinc, which takes an earlier 'table than 36 does on other days of the week. This enables more northerly photos than would normally be possible. Sunday 15th January 2006, Time 19.18: f9@400th:iso 200: lens 28-135mm zoom set at 115mm The sun disapears quickly behind the hill as train 36 rounds the reverse curves at Nala. DQ's 2003/2012/2002 are the units : Sat 21st Jan 2006 :19.30: f10@400th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom, set at 85mm. DQ's 2003/2012/2002 with train no 36 as the sun sets between Antil Ponds and Tunbridge. At Tunbridge the train must wait to cross no 31, rarely running south of Conara on a Saturday. 21st Jan 2006: 19.59: f5.6@640th: iso 400: 28-135mm zoom set at 85mm.

Published in TRAINS IN TASMANIA

]]> Sun Oct 16 2005 Fingal Branch [ formerly St. Marys ] http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c725932.html The Fingal Branch exists these days due mainly to coal ex Duncan Colliery Siding, just east of Fingal Station. Also pine log products have been steady over the last few years, and combined these products allow the running of one train per day, Monday to Fridays.. The empties leaving Conara early in the morning 04.00-05.00. The run out is about 1 hour and fifteen minutes to cover the 54 kilometres. After some two hours of loading the empty HF coal hoppers, and shunting of pine log wagons the train usually heads back westbound to Conara about 10.00. The loading is for intra-state customers, situated at Boyer, Railton and South Burnie. Friday 14 October 2005: The Fingal Branch exists these days due mainly to coal ex Duncan Colliery Siding, just east of Fingal Station. Also pine log products have been steady over the last few years, and combined these products allow the running of one train per day, Monday to Fridays.. The empties leaving Conara early in the morning 04.00-05.00. The run out is about 1 hour and fifteen minutes to cover the 54 kilometres. After some two hours of loading the empty HF coal hoppers, and shunting of pine log wagons the train usually heads back westbound to Conara about 10.00. The loading is for intra-state customers, situated at Boyer, Railton and South Burnie.

Train 47 on Fingal Branch. 24-8-05: 14.51: f10@320th: iso200: 28-135 set at 90mm. CanonEOS300D Fingal Station building on a beautiful winters day on the 24th August 2005.13.30: f18@200th: iso200: 28-135 set at 28mm: CanonEOS3OOD Rotting away the once proud station building at Fingal. Note a rake of pine log wagons awaiting pick up in the background.24-8-05: 11.54: f10@250th:iso 100: 28-135 set at 33mm: CanonEOS300D Running very late to-day, no 47 loaded coal train approaches the station area at Fingal about 13.40. 200th@f10, 200iso, 135mm focal using 6.1mp digital camera DQ units 2012 and 2007 whisk their train, no 47 towards Conara on 24th August 2005 at 14.12: F8@320th: iso200: 28-135 set at 56mm: CanonEOS300D DQ 2012/ DQ 2007 train 47 24th Aug. 2005: 14.12: f9@320th: iso200: 28-135 set at 41mm St. Marys station building still looking quite good as photographed on 15th September 2005: 12.52: f10@100th: iso200: 28-135 lens set at 28mm: CanonEOS300D St. Marys Station a bit like a pub with no beer.!! Recently a static display including EE unit X30 and the track were removed by D.V.R. and taken to New Norfolk, leaving things rather bare. 15-9-05; 12.53; f10@100th:iso200: 28-135 set at 38mm: CanonEOS300D

Published in TRAINS IN TASMANIA

]]> Fri Oct 14 2005 Derwent Valley Railway http://steve3652.fotopic.net/c725085.html In early September, the Derwent Valley Railway, operating the Derwent Valley Branch from New Norfolk to National Park, found itself without track runing rights due to a decision by Pacific National who own the rails. This collection shows typical workings on the branch and also special charters on the main line. It is hoped the situation can be overcome and that DVR will operate again. [ indeed it is hoped that trains will still be running in Tasmania as a whole]. Thursday 13 October 2005: In early September, the Derwent Valley Railway, operating the Derwent Valley Branch from New Norfolk to National Park, found itself without track runing rights due to a decision by Pacific National who own the rails. This collection shows typical workings on the branch and also special charters on the main line. It is hoped the situation can be overcome and that DVR will operate again. [ indeed it is hoped that trains will still be running in Tasmania as a whole].

A Misty Moisty morning sees Y-2 gingerly easing it's train over No 1 bridge, near Hayes. Y-2 departs Westerway. Sunday 6-5-05: 15.06: iso200; 28-135mm zoom@ 50mm: CanonEOS 300D New Norfolk, Derwent Valley Branch. 30-10-04: 18.51: f5.6@400th:iso 400: 28-135 set at 127mm: Canon EOS300D X-18 eases its train over No 1 Bridge near Hayes on the first shuttle service of the day to Plenty. Sun 6-5-05: 11.22: f9@320th: iso 200: 28-135mm set at 53mm: Canon EOS300D X-18 approaching No1 Bridge, Hayes with a returning Plenty shuttle. Sunday 6-5-05: Time 12.09: f8@320th: iso 200: 28-135 lens, set at 65mm: Canon EOS300D Awaiting departure at New Norfolk, Sunday 6-5-05: 14.08: f14@160th: iso 200: 28-135mm set at 50mm: Canon EOS300D Y-2 about to leave Westerway with a National Park to New Norfolk service. 15.01: 6-5-05: f6.3@200th: iso 200: 28-135mm zoom, set at 75mm: Canon EOS300D On its return from Westerway, the train is seen on tight curves in the Karanja area. Sun 6-5-05: 15.26: f8@160th: iso 200: 28-135 lens, set at 75mm: Canon EOS300D X-18 passes through Hayes Loop en route to Plenty. Sun 6-5-05: 14.27: f10@200th: iso 200: 28-135 set at 70m: Canon EOS300D A member of the DVR in cab of Y-2: Sun 65-05: 15.06: iso 200: f13@125th: 28-135mm zoom, set at 85mm: Canon EOS300D The scenic vista at Plenty. X-18 after having arrived at Plenty, uncouples and moves forward, thence to pass the cars as it runs around on the loop. Note the minibus provided for passengers visiting Salmon Ponds. 17-7-05: 11.41: f11@200th: iso200: 28-135 set at 38mm: Canon EOS300D With snow covering the tops of Mt. Field, the departure of X-18 from Plenty makes for a very pretty sight: Sun 17-7-05: 11.50: f11@200th: iso 200: 28-135 set at 60mm: Canon EOS300D Between shuttles, X-18 couples up to an ACS car after running around the train. It will soon leave New Norfolk 17-7-05: 12.24: f5.6@400th: iso 400: 28-135 set at 28mm: Canon EOS300D The interior of an ACS car formerly used on the Tasman Limited. This shot was taken in the smaller seating area. Through the door is the buffet area. At the other end is the larger saloon seating area. A truely wonderfull vehicle.Sun 17-7-05: 13.05: f3.5@125th: iso 400: 28-135 set at 28mm: Canon EOS300D Passing by some cherry orchards, the train has almost reached Plenty. 31-7-05: 11.26: f10@320th: iso200: 28-135 set at 120mm: CanonEOS300D Y-2 heads towards Plenty, passing cherry orchards. Sunday 31-7-05: 11.26: f8@320th: iso 200: 28-135 set at 47mm: CanonEOS300D Y-2 changing ends of train at Plenty. Sunday 31-7-05: f10@320th: iso 200: 28-135 set at 38mm: Canon EOS300D Returning from Plenty, Y-2 towards New Norfolk seen here passing through Hayes Loop. : 11.56: 31-7-05: f8@320th: iso200: 28-135 set to 70mm: Canon EOS300D Mt.Wellington looms in the background as X-18 approaches Brighton to pick up passengers 09.27: 4-9-05: f10@320th: iso200: 35-135 set at 135mm X-18 arrives at Tea Tree. f11@250th:iso200:28-135 set on 135mm CanonEOS300D The train leaving Tea Tree. 09.41: f7.1@400th: iso200: 28-135 set at 80mm: CanonEOS300D X-18 climbs up to Rhyndaston. 10.48: 4-9-05: f10@400th:iso200:35-135 set at 50mm.CanonEOS300D The warmly lit interior of ACS car is most inviting. 20.27: 4-9-05: 1 sec@f5.6:iso200: 35-135 set at 28mm At the end of a long day, the train returns to base at New Norfolk. 20.30 on 4-9-05: 10secs@f5.6:iso200: 35-135mm lens set at 28mm: CanonEOS300D Y-2 Returns 'The Boags Express' D.V.R. Charter back towards Hobart. The train seen here, passing Claremont. It only seems like a short time ago that Hayes Loop was an important place. It hosted several shuttle trains from New Norfolk as the terminus. Also the loop was useful in turning around trains for Valleyfield. Now some 8 months after seeing a train Hayes Loop falls into decay During happier times, New Norfolk Station is bustling after an enjoyable day out for the kids of New Norfolk Primary School. Operations Manager Tony Coen can be seen talking to parents. Special charters were frequently hired by the local schools. Sadly now no more. Special charter seen crossing the bridge at Hayes at 11.00. Y-2 and X-18 haul 2 ACS cars. Passengers arrived at New Norfolk on a double decker bus from Hobart. Oct 27th 2003 Y-2 having dropped down from Red Gum Bridge is seen approaching Pulpit Rock with a returning special from Hobart Y-2 hauling empty cars back from Hobart to New Norfolk seen near journeys end, nestled under the imposing Pulpit Rock

Published in TRAINS IN TASMANIA

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