Footplate Experience Trains

Dave and Col and 861 on Bridge 8.

Have you ever wanted to drive a train? Of course you have! Now you can! The Climax Committee has decided that there are too few people having fun driving trains. We are doing something about it. As of March 2006, we will be offering Footplate Experience Trains for all those who would like to drive a train but haven't got the spare 10-20 years to learn. You will be able to fire and drive Victoria's oldest, regularly working locomotive - 861. The experienced crew will instruct and help you to have a day that you will long remember.

Tony and the Crew.

During November, we trialled the Experience Trains with Col Rees and Tony Johnson as our (guinea pigs, oops) Guest Drivers. Col and Tony each had a day out on the 119 year-old Couillet-built locomotive 861. They helped the crews to prepare the engine and then learnt how to make the loco go and stop while shunting in Emerald yard. It was then downhill to Lakeside and Cockatoo. After shunting at Cockatoo, the trip Up to Lakeside begins. Lunch at Lakeside, then a return to Cockatoo. More shunting, then off to Bridge 8 for the obligatory photostop. The trip continues through the Wright Forest to Lakeside. After a break at Lakeside, we continue Emerald, more shunting and then it is time for a spin on the turntable. The fire is dropped, 861 is cleaned, watered and put to bed. A long day has finished. Col and Tony both enjoyed the experience immensely, as did the crews involved. The trials went well as good preparation had been done by the Climax team over more than a year. The photographs show a bit of what went on.

For information on how you can participate in a Footplate Experience go to driveatrain.puffingbilly.com.au All profits assist in the restoration of Climax Locomotive 1694.

This page is prepared and maintained for the Climax Restoration Committee by Frank Stamford and Darren Baker and copyright ©. Last updated on 24 January  2006.