Legend of Steam 3801 returns to passenger service this weekend
Transport Heritage NSW
Legend of Steam 3801 returns to passenger service this weekend
Transport Heritage NSW is celebrating the return of Australia’s most iconic and celebrated steam locomotive 3801 to passenger service this weekend for the first time in more than two years.
Throughout the weekend, 3801 will haul a series of 75-minute return journeys from Penrith Station up to the lower Blue Mountains, with over 2,750 tickets already sold out ahead of the weekend.
The services mark the successful completion of an extensive program of technical assessments, maintenance and repair works, targeted safety upgrades and testing to prepare the locomotive for its return to mainline heritage operations.
Transport Heritage NSW CEO Andrew Moritz said seeing 3801 back at the head of a passenger train was a proud moment for everyone involved.
“Locomotive 3801 is an extraordinary part of our state’s transport history and one of Australia’s most recognisable steam locomotives,” Mr Moritz said.
“To see it carrying passengers again—and every service completely sold out—is a wonderful demonstration of the affection the community continues to have for this locomotive.
“This return has only been possible through the dedication and expertise of our Fleet Maintenance Team, volunteers, the Transport Asset Manager of NSW and our specialist industry partners.
“It is a significant achievement for everyone who has contributed to the work and a great outcome for the people of NSW, who can once again experience this remarkable locomotive in operation.”
Work completed ahead of 3801’s return included the realignment of its driving wheels, replacement of motion gear and new train visibility lighting, followed by successful load and mainline trials.
Known as the “Legend of Steam”, 3801 is an important part of the NSW State Transport Heritage Collection and has inspired generations of railway enthusiasts and members of the wider community.
Following this weekend’s Penrith services, 3801 will haul the sold-out Blue Mountains Flyer from Sydney to the Zig Zag Railway and return on 1 and 2 August, before appearing at further Transport Heritage NSW experiences for the remainder of the year, including steam train ride in Canberra and this year’s Transport Heritage Expo in October.
Locomotive 3801 is owned by the NSW Government through the Transport Asset Manager of NSW and preserved and operated by Transport Heritage NSW for the benefit of the community.
ENDS
MEDIA NOTE
- Steam train rides with 3801 will depart Penrith Station at: 9.29am, 11.28am, 1.28pm and 3.28pm.
- Total journey time from Penrith to Valley Heights (non-stop) and return is 75-minutes.
- THNSW CEO, Andrew Moritz will be available for interview at Penrith Station, along with volunteers and staff crew.
- For more info visit: Penrith Steam Train Rides | Transport Heritage NSW
- Video and images of 3801 is available on Dropbox here
Contact details:
David Bennett, 0417 44 55 33
Harry Stranger, 0413 424 652