How it will be used

Because of its slow speed, the Climax is not suitable for use on normal time-tabled trains, though it certainly has the power to haul them. In the past it has been used on special charter trains, on the Commissioners' Special train between Belgrave and Menzies Creek, and on ballast trains.

When it is back in service it will again be available for this type of work. In addition, we are investigating the feasibility of using it to run "driver experience" courses between Emerald and Cockatoo. This will enable interested people to participate in the full experience of preparing, firing, and driving the locomotive, under the supervision of a qualified crew.

Whilst many preserved railways provide driver experience courses, the opportunity to drive a narrow gauge Climax geared locomotive in beautiful forest scenery is one that may be unique to the Puffing Billy Railway.

This page is prepared and maintained for the Climax Restoration Committee by Frank Stamford and Darren Baker and copyright ©. Last updated on 21 February  2005.