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Well, it was a long flight with the usual tribulations of air travel. I think it was worth it and then some. I was fortunate enough to spend 4 weeks in New Zealand and Australia in our autumn (their spring) of 1997 and all I can say is, Yanks, if you don't go down under, you don't know what you are missing.
I had no idea when I set out about just how much there was for a steam oriented visitor to enjoy in the other colonies. For some reason, there is not a lot of information available in the US. We seem to base our concept of Australia on Crocodile Dundee movies and Outback Steakhouse, but that is only scratching the surface of one of the greatest travel experiences available. The favorable exchange rate makes it only that much the better.
There were a few bumps and disappointments along the way, and some missed opportunities. I will not be shy about including them in the hope that other Yanks who make the long trip down will have a better chance of getting the best and missing the worst.
NEW ZEALAND - I made the mistake of shortchanging us by only taking a week in this beautiful and pleasant country. Of course, taking more time here would have meant we missed more in Australia. Guess I will just have to go back.
QUEENSTOWN is supposedly a tourist trap. If so, I am sorry I was able to escape. Cruise on a steam boat with twin triple expansion engines and locomotive boilers to a tea and demonstration of country culture at a sheep station.
The ZIG ZAG RAILWAY in Katoomba, in the mountains back of Sydney, is the Ozzie version of Georgetown Loop. The management was kind enough to offer me a fine day, and a chance to hand fire a nice Pacific that is younger than me up a nice long switchback pulling a long train on a heavy grade.
3801 COMPANY is the Royal Hudson program down under. I accidently was on board on the day of the first trial run of the 3830, when two 3800 class locomotives met under steam for the first time in decades.
The COCKATOO TRAIN runs from a steel mill suburb of Sydney up an escarpment to an overlook through fine scenery, and drops you off in a nice country town with a fine pub whose proprietor will take you on a tour of his area. Great way to spend a day and see some gorgeous country.
The INDIAN PACIFIC from Sydney to Adelaide, and some general commentary on visiting down under for Yanks who have never been.
STEAM RANGER runs trips from the countryside around Adelaide, including one to a seaside resort with a horse drawn tramway. Carter Brothers look out.
ECHUCA is an old river town where Mark Twain would feel at home. It is a magical trip back in time with steam powered sidewheelers, industries, and a steam railway now under construction.
MELBOURNE is a fine and civilized city with an extensive tram system and some fascinating railway experiences, and many other interesting things for a tourist to experience. Fortunately, I had a mate there to show me around who also works with:
PUFFING BILLY - an Australian institution. Once again, by accident, I was able to hang out on a special occasion when steam rollers, steam wagons, and other kinds of old iron were fired up for Old Time Days. Lots of locomotives too, by the way.
The opinions expressed are mine alone. For further comments, or information, please email me:
Dave Lathrop "IronDave" - irondave@bellsouth.net
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