“BEHIND THE SCENES” AT PUFFING BILLY - 14 July 2012

Published: 15 Jun 2012

Section News: Victoria

CILTA – VIC PASSENGER TRANSPORT GROUP invites you to:
“BEHIND THE SCENES” AT PUFFING BILLY

It’s been a while, 6 years actually, since PTG last looked at Puffing Billy when we celebrated 10 years of PTG activities. This time we celebrate 50 years of restored Puffing Billy services slightly in advance of the actual date by having a look at some of the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep this much loved Heritage train operating.

To minimize our carbon footprint and the cost of this activity, we will use regular scheduled public transport services between venues (a Zone 2 fare at least will apply, plus Zone 1 if travelling from there).

The plan is to meet outside Belgrave Metro Railway Station at Bus Bay 2 by 10.00 a.m. From there we will travel on Route 695 Bus to Emerald (dep 10:20 a.m.) to meet our friendly guide who will show us and explain the depth of activity that goes toward maintaining the carriages and signalling / communication equipment. While at Emerald the first two trains of the day will pass through affording photographic opportunities.

Time will be available to obtain any luncheon supplies at the friendly local bakery, after which we will back track (again on Route 695) to Menzies Creek to view crossing arrangements of two trains, inspect the Signal Box and progress on Museum restoration (depending on available access). Then it’s on to Belgrave (yes, Route 695 again) and some after-lunch exercise with a walk to the PBR Locomotive workshops, on the way viewing / having explained some of the behind the scenes activities. Formalities will conclude about 4.00 pm (4.12?) allowing us to escape the winter chill before sunset.

As road traffic conditions & parking between Upper Ferntree Gully & Belgrave on Saturday mornings can be congested, we suggest that if you are coming by car you park your car at either Boronia or Fern Tree Gully Station which are both Premium Stations (Upper Gully hosts a market so parking can be especially limited) and take the train to Belgrave. A suitable train is scheduled to depart Boronia at 9:29 a.m., Ferntree Gully 9:32 arr Belgrave 9:52.

While only a small charge of $5.00 payable on the morning of the activity will be made, WE DO ASK YOU TO BOOK AHEAD AND DO NOT JUST TURN UP ON THE DAY.

Please click here to download the RSVP Form.