Depot Diary 116 Trivia Quiz Answer : the PM Was Kevin Rudd

No 117 September 2017

Part of the crowd at the 150th anniversary celebrations at Wentworth Falls. Photo: Julie Tester

In this edition 1. From the Valley Chair’s desk 7. Shopping trends 2. Community volunteer award: well done Ted! 8. Small exhibits 3. Recent happenings at Valley Heights 9. Our models 4. 150th anniversary BM railway to Wentworth Falls July 2017 10. Buildings and grounds 5. Big trains 11. Membership 6. On the “four foot” 12. Our coming events

“The first word” If you’ve been in a snow cave or in deepest As you read on you will notice that your Museum Africa since Christmas, you may have missed the is moving ahead on several fronts. Projects, large news that the Blue Mountains line celebrated the and small, are complete, close to fruition, in 150th anniversary of the first train to progress, or about to commence. If you’d like to Weatherboard (now Wentworth Falls) in July take part in any way, let Membership Officer, Jeff (known as BM150). Although, for various Russell know and he will slot you into a role that reasons, planning was concertinaed into the will add to your enjoyment and help you make a previous few months, events all fell into place useful contribution to the Museum. Every little bit with a stunning result for all concerned! Many of of support counts! the Museum's members and volunteers were On the financial side, we were fortunate to raise involved in plenty of ways and I thank them all a healthy profit from the raffle tickets that we sold collectively for their combined input, effort and on the steam shuttles on the weekend of BM150. support. We’re already planning the 200th The Museum has been successful in adding anniversary so watch this space! some new prize donors for our Christmas raffle, drawn by “Santa” on December 10th. As we don’t

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have shuttle passengers to tap in to this time lift that profile, we decided to give all purchasers around, extra ticket sellers are needed, so please of raffle tickets on the steam shuttles on 22–23 let me know if you would like a book of 50 tickets July, a discount voucher to the Museum allowing to sell? Most of us have friends, relatives and free entry to children under 16 if accompanied by neighbours who are keen to support our worthy a full fare paying adult. We are yet to see what cause, so please give it a go. level of take-up there will be for this offer. Please note the Museum is always keen to hear of other There is increasing awareness of our ideas or promotions that will help us raise our responsibility to improve returns on the capital visitor numbers. being outlaid on the Museum's behalf. My role in that is to help build visitor numbers with sustainable growth that doesn't Impact on our Keith Ward, Publicity Manager VHLDHM resources - volunteers or infrastructure. To help

1. From the Valley Chair’s desk Many events have come and gone and many many hours of hard labour for our Per Way team! projects have moved forward since our last chat. I must also thank our tireless Treasurer, John As a result, the entire team at the Valley has to Carter, for his expert financial management of be thanked for being so keen and for their this project! John also finalised some major continued efforts, well done! financial documents for the Museum during this period. It was great to see the culmination of the efforts of Keith Ward, Andrew Tester and Ted Dickson Our website failed us recently and if it wasn’t for and others in the success of the BM150 the tireless efforts of our Webmaster Grant celebrations. Their sterling work is to be Robinson, this vital piece of communication applauded with such a hugely popular event equipment would have been out of action for a providing great exposure for the Museum. A much longer time. Grant is also updating and great job by our Publicity Team and all who modifying our website so that it is more “mobile helped behind the scenes. phone” friendly which as its name suggests allows our visitors to view our website on their The Teddy Bears’ Day Out was a great success mobiles. along with the working bee with our neighbours at the Boys and Girls Club to rebuild their sleeper A grant from the State Government kindly retaining wall. Thanks to all who assisted. provided by Trish Doyle, MP for the Blue Mountains has provided us with the funds to Henk (“Clogs”) Luf has also been hard at work install air conditioners in the shop and the model refurbishing our model railway room and now has railway room which are working well and will be a a range of different themed trains running for great benefit to our visitors and staff during the visitors to enjoy. Henk never misses an open day hot summer months. Da-Mell Air Conditioning & and puts on a great show for young and old alike. Heating Pty Ltd did a terrific job including a very generous offer to install a unit donated by Ted The “Coal Stage Road” refurbishment was a Mullett, Life Member of Valley Heights, in our major Per Way project completed recently. Our amenities room at no cost. Trish will now be thanks go to Life Member of Valley Heights invited to the Museum to view the completed Roslyn Reynolds for her significant donation project. This project was facilitated by the which allowed this project to go forward. Many upgrade of electrical mains to the shop carried thanks also to STARPS for their financial out by member Glenn Hargrave. Glenn has also assistance, ARTC for a donation of sleepers, to installed, at no charge, a number of power points Derryville Rail Services for the work done and to in the former DLE’s building for the new “Call our Per Way team. This project has returned this Boy” exhibition that you must see! road (now sometimes known as “Roslyn’s Railway”) to operation and increases our profile The amenities room refurbishment project, with higher visibility to the Highway. It also saved funded by a Commonwealth Government grant,

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has been completed and our federal member “I can see that the multiple purposes the Susan Templeman visited the Museum to kitchen and meeting room can now be put to, officially open the room on Sunday 13 August. after the upgrade, will be a real asset. The restoration team were on hand for a photographic session with Susan saying the “As a trainer, I always like to see professional following kind words: training facilities, and so I was pleasantly surprised to see the thought that has gone “It is always impressive to see how an into creating a learning space. organisation like Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum really makes the “There has obviously been a lot of volunteer most of the funding they receive. time put into the project to make it the success it is, and I congratulate everyone involved.”

Susan Templeman, Federal Member for Macquarie, photographed with the Meal Room Restoration Team of L-R, Mike Pensini, Dennis Brown and David Grove. Photo: courtesy of Susan Templeman.

There has also been further movement in the · The boundary fence is nearing completion following projects: with only a few remaining items like motorising the lower car park gate to be

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finalised. The final inspection took place in explains the station names on the seats at late August, with the contract to be fulfilled in this location and looks extremely good. This a matter of weeks. agreed format for interpretive signs will now be used around the Museum including at our · Negotiations to have Sydney Trains replace front gate. A further team is looking at how the corridor fence between us and the main we can make our road signage more effective line are continuing. and looking at all the legal issues of placing signs on Roads and Maritime Services and · Transfer of the Civil Depot is now in the Council roads. The Mayor of the Blue hands of Sydney Trains legal department and Mountains, Mr Mark Greenhill on a recent I am advised that we should soon see a visit has kindly offered to assist with this positive outcome. Planning on the best way project. to utilise the site has produced a draft plan which is designed to allow for a controlled · Our fettlers’ shed is slowly taking shape with and efficient move! the concrete floor about to be laid also due to a kind donation from member Roslyn · The project to refurbish our Roundhouse Reynolds. This will be a great project to have forecourt is continuing with our recent finished as our Per Way exhibits can be submission to Sydney Trains and the Office relocated from the Roundhouse, allowing of Environment and Heritage (OEH) moving better access there, and grouped in an forward. Sydney Trains have requested a authentic styled structure to tell the tale of the detailed plan of the project to be prepared as hard working railway “fettler”. their Heritage Branch must now sign off on all “Land Owner” requests for development. They have also requested more information DIARY NOTE: on the project re bitumen versus concrete surfaces. This is being prepared and once The date of our Annual General Meeting assembled will be sent to Sydney Trains and (AGM) has been set for Saturday 18 finally to OEH for sign off. I am trying to have November at 11:00. Transport Heritage NSW this work carried out in January 2018 in our (THNSW) Chair Rob Mason confirmed he will non-running time so as to minimise lost chair our meeting for the election of the new revenue. Rhomberg Rail, the contractors, committee. have advised that this may be possible but won’t confirm for a while yet. THNSW CEO Andrew Moritz advised that the THNSW AGM will be on the same day at · A grant application to install a number of high Thirlmere commencing at 17:00 — a change pressure standpipes in the front of the from the usual mid-week meeting at Burwood. Roundhouse and auxiliary hoses to the STARPS shed and Civil Depot has been There is something happening at your Museum submitted to OEH and we should hear soon if all the time with work on the grounds, large and we have been successful. The suggestion of small exhibits, publicity, curatorial, etc. so please the need to install further high pressure come along and get involved. Our open days are standpipes came from a recent audit of the every second and fourth Sunday, and we always site by the Rural Fire Service to permit a need more help in the shop! You can always more accurate and speedy response to any come along and just say "Hi". fire that may occur at the Museum. Hope to see you at your Museum soon? · Thanks to our signage team for submitting the plan for standardisation of interpretive signage at the Museum. The first sign, to be Bruce Coxon, Chairman used on Open Days in the shop courtyard,

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2. Community volunteer award: well done Ted!

Photo: Sam Wyatt

Foundation member of Valley Heights administration. Ted is currently working on the Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum and tender of 5711, which he has a strong desire to THNSW Life Member, Ted Dickson, recently see restored. received a Community Volunteer Award for recognition of his outstanding volunteer efforts at Congratulations on this thoroughly deserved the Museum from the Rotary Club of the Lower recognition, Ted. Thanks for all that you do to Blue Mountains. bring the story of NSW transport heritage to life for the community of Valley Heights and beyond. Ted joined Valley Heights at the inaugural meeting in 1989 and since then has put in many Ted is also a qualified driver for the Valley thousands of hours in various roles. In the last Heights Steam Tramway and enjoys driving the year alone, Ted has accrued over 1,250 1891 steam tram and the 1899 Stephenson volunteer hours, spreading his time across work locomotive on the Museum’s open days. on Per Way, building repairs, clearing the grounds, working on exhibitions, preparing THNSW July 2017 eNews submissions for grants and general

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3. Recent happenings at Valley Heights National Volunteer Week Guests from seven other volunteer organisations made the event a pleasurable one for our were on site on Wednesday 10 May and were visitors! Several of our own volunteers also took treated to a sausage barbecue, expertly catered advantage of the special deals during the week by Jeff Russell, and a guided tour with myself as at reciprocating museums and galleries across part of National Volunteer Week. Thanks to Sydney. These offers should not be missed if everyone who kept the place tidy for the day and repeated next year! Teddy Bears' Day Out The Teddy Bears’ Day Out on Sunday 28 May was a great success and led to the usual round of “bear” puns! (None of those will be repeated as it’s more than I can bear). Around 300 visitors of all ages packed the Museum to enjoy the day’s activities. The roles of “Papa” and “Mama” Bear were performed with great stamina and enthusiasm – the former shared by Museum stalwarts Ted Dickson and Andrew Tester; the latter throughout the day by volunteer Kailee Southwell. Our sincere thanks go to these three hardy souls who coped with the confines of the suits and the excitement of the children as they received their complimentary packs of “Gummi Bears”. Building on the popularity of the “hidden” teddies of previous years, we held a “Spot the Teddies Challenge” to encourage children and families to identify and locate 20 bears in both easy-to-find and unusual hiding places around the site. This caused a high degree of interest and amusement with five families receiving Museum passes after the results were judged. Wonderful weather plus paid promotion on Facebook and various websites resulted in good turnover for the shop and means that this popular TBDO flyer created by Andrew Tester event is now cemented on our calendar.

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Korowal School visit over the long weekend of 10-12 June and handed out 1,500 double-sided flyers promoting Friday 2 June saw a group from the Korowal the Museum and events for the 150th birthday School at Hazelbrook visit the Museum. Jeff celebrations in July. Visitors also viewed the Russell and Keith Ward met them at Valley brand new commemorative panel that tells the Heights station after their arrival by train and story of the first 150 years of the line to escorted them safely to the Museum, where they “Weatherboard”, now known as Wentworth Falls. were welcomed by Chairman, Bruce Coxon and It was alongside three similar boards featuring Large Exhibits Manager, Henk Luf. Bruce and the histories of Sydney Bus Museum, Loftus Jeff than conducted interesting and educational Tram Museum, and a general overview of NSW guided tours that included our 10 question quiz rail. Our thanks go to David Bennett and Ha Bui and highlighted learning outcomes that had been at Head Office for the concept and the suggested by the school. Whilst on board the opportunity to be part of such a high profile (non-running) Steam Tram, children and teachers event. alike were surprised by a guest appearance by a whistle blowing conductor! All enjoyed their The involvement of Serge Sequen, Warwick morning and lunch breaks in the Roundhouse Tafe, Adrian Duffy, Eileen Ward and new before being ushered back to the station for their volunteer David Wainwright was greatly departure. appreciated and we all had a great time engaging with the many interested patrons who Great Train Expo stopped to chat and read the content. The 3 x 2.4 m wall was later used at several venues to A team from Valley Heights was on duty at tell this remarkable railway story and is now on Sydney Central Station for the Great Train Expo display at the Museum.

Commemorative panels at Sydney Central Expo, June long weekend, Keith Ward and David Wainwright on duty. Photo: Eileen Ward

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Commemorative panels at Sydney Central Expo, June long weekend. Photo: Keith Ward

Inaugural Ghost Hunt well-known (non-flying!) Dutchman nearly split his sides with laughter! The Museum held its inaugural ghost hunt on Saturday 10 June, hosted by Australian Nepean District event Paranormal Phenomenon Investigators. A fine Sunday 16 July dawned crisp and fine on the but cool night ended with a light shower, so our Mountains but not as cold as Emu Plains, where brollies were called in to play. Eighteen visitors some hardy souls from the Museum set up camp plus a large team from the hosts were on site at the Australia Arms Inn to assist the Nepean and the place looked a treat, with the District Historical Society’s own event to Roundhouse night lights forming a perfect celebrate BM150, with special emphasis on John backdrop, supplemented by spotlights for safety Whitton’s Victoria Bridge. and coloured LED strip lights laid to mark pathways. Although it was a late night for all, the Under a specially erected marquee, our display paying guests were gone by 22:30 and the included our Karabar platform seat, our station organisers did a good job of packing their name pull-up banner, a fettlers’ trike, some HO equipment and tidying before they left. models on track mounted on a display stand carefully custom built by Mike Pensini, some For the time being, this will be treated as a one- historical panels kindly prepared and loaned by off event and lessons were learnt from the trial. Sue Fulton, and our Great Western Line Many thanks to Jeff Russell who did a sterling job commemorative panels that were used at of assisting with managing the Museum's Central. Following assistance from Bruce Coxon, interests on the night. Steve Dive, Andrew Tester and myself with set Giant clogs up, Mike, along with Henk Luf, had many enjoyable conversations with visitors during the A pair of giant clogs was seen entering the model day and handed out plenty of leaflets, promoting railway room on Sunday 16 July, and a certain both the Museum, and details of the following weekend.

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Museum display at Nepean District Historical Society Model train display at Nepean District Historical Society celebration celebration

Photos: Keith Ward

been identified and further progress will be Future stuff advised. Your Museum is planning an inaugural Halloween event on Sunday 29 October. This Blue Mountains Accommodation & Tourism extra Open Day should enable us to bank some Association: I attended the regular monthly of the revenue that will be lost by any closures meeting of this organisation held on Wednesday due to the forecourt upgrade. This will be a 2 August at the Hydro Majestic. It was (to my running day and we are again looking for ideas knowledge) the first time that our Museum had (and volunteers) to help make this an interesting been represented in this group (of which we’re a addition to our program. If you’re ready to have a member). This gathering of thirty key players go at maybe dressing up and having a good from the tourism sector across the mountains laugh, this is the day for you! Come along and provided a great opportunity for networking and enter into the “spirit” of it! Auditions may be we have some interesting potential prospects to required so be in touch soon. follow up. There is an opportunity for us to host one of these meetings next year. Other business: Parramatta Light Rail Media Manager, Karen Donations in: Two councillors from Blue Smith visited the Museum (with her father Ian, Mountains City Council each contributed $500 to who guides at Thirlmere) to discuss creating a help fund the 150th commemorative event. The storyboard for display in the PLR precinct, to tell money was spent on various projects, including, of the early days of trams in the area. This task but not limited to: image rights, printing, catering has been handed to STARPS and Bruce Irwin etc. We thank Cr Mick Fell and Cr Daniel Myles has made good progress with the concept which for their support. may also include good promotional opportunities using electronic media. Project details: Donations out: Elizabeth Dudley-Bestow, parramattalightrail.nsw.gov.au Principal Landscape Architect for Blue Mountains City Council has contacted the Museum regarding the possibility of us donating items for the revamped play area at Glenbrook Park. Several exhibits surplus to requirements have Keith Ward, Publicity Manager VHLDHM

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4. 150th anniversary Blue Mountains railway to Wentworth Falls July 2017 Friday 21 July Channel 7 was conducting several on-train interviews, including a glimpse of Ted Dickson An early start for many, as a group from the handing out leaflets about the charms of the Museum took the interurban to Central to catch destination, the township formerly known as the 10:00 departure of 3642 and a rake of “Weatherboard”. heritage carriages as they set off with TV crew on My job there complete, I hopped on the board, the latter having been on duty to capture interurban to Springwood to meet our invited the excitement on the platform beforehand, guest, local MP Trish Doyle, and BM Gazette including an interview with our own Andrew journalist, Brenda Cunningham-Lewis, along with Tester. Equally early, a team from Wentworth dozens of fellow travellers and spectators keenly Falls Chamber of Commerce had been braving awaiting the train’s approach. Brenda was active the cool upper mountains air as they set up with a series of interviews that were streamed chairs, p.a. system and decorations ready for the live on the paper’s Facebook page. Her chat with steam train’s arrival later in the day. I was also on the driver and fireman can be viewed at: site to erect our GWR commemorative panels facebook.com/bluemountainsgazette/videos/158 and check with the Chamber’s President, Lew 0757431996079/ Hird, that all was progressing smoothly. The setting, Coronation Park, adjacent to Wentworth We boarded the train, to news that a highlight Falls station, had been preferred as the ideal had been the parallel run at VH station with spot for the ceremony, but its large shady trees, “Stevo”, who was in between trials on the newly welcome in summer, prevented the sun’s weak refurbished Coal Stage Road. Many thanks to winter rays from penetrating! Meanwhile, our STARPS friends for arranging that.

Andrew Tester at Central prior to departure of the 150 anniversary train

Great Western Railway commemorative panels Bluey Quilty and Dr Robert Lee on the commemorative train

Photos: Julie Tester

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The train has arrived and floral display at Weatherboard for the anniversary celebration. Photos: Eileen Ward

Our arrival at Wentworth Falls was met by a NSW Trainlink CEO Peter Allaway in cutting the friendly voice on the footbridge guiding us to the commemorative cake. An 1867 news item was required spot and other Chamber of Commerce read by children from the local primary school. members took care of distributing official The steam train returned to Valley Heights during programs. With the BM Grammar School Band in proceedings, providing a fitting backdrop. The place, Lew welcomed the guests, followed by band accompanied the gathering’s rousing humorous and apt addresses by local event renditions of “Waltzing Matilda” and “Advance campaigner and co-organiser Bluey Quilty, Australia Fair” and continued playing as the 350+ author Dr Robert Lee and Trish Doyle, who then crowd dispersed, either to catch trains or to enjoy assisted local Station Manager Ed Griffiths and the village eateries!

Anniversary cake. Photo: Julie Tester

At the Wentworth Falls ceremony. Photos: Eileen Ward

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During lunch with some of the invited guests, the Lawson Bowling Club, ready for Sunday. central slab of the cake was purchased by Trish The consist was already safely housed at the at an impromptu auction, and kindly Doyle Depot by late afternoon and as usual looked donated to our Museum, to be used for great in the Museum’s surroundings. fundraising the next day. Later, I removed our Preparations were already underway for the next commemorative panels and delivered them to day’s action!

3642 stabled overnight at Valley Heights. Photo: Andrew Tester Essential coal supplies being off loaded at Valley Heights. Photo: Eileen Ward

Saturday 22 July competitions between Rhomberg gangs from Sydney and the Hunter Valley, some speeches The train (including myself and wife, Eileen) and another cake cutting ceremony later in the headed to Penrith for the first of four sold out day. shuttles. During the day, we journeyed back and forth to VH station, again to be met on each Fascinated onlookers thoroughly enjoyed the occasion by “Stevo”, now carrying excited visitors exciting action as the Rhomberg teams displayed on the “Valley Heights Mixed”. Plenty of photo their highly professional skills, using old style opportunities and lots of raffle tickets sold! 3642 manual techniques, and racing against each made its final run back to the Depot for the other and the clock. Watchers were treated to the important re-coaling in the evening. Good news spectacle of track-laying skills rarely seen these from the Museum was that nearly 100 customers days (except of course at Valley Heights!) We had arrived to enjoy this extra Open Day and the are extremely grateful for the support and effort bonus of seeing 3642 in town. put in by everyone in the group, especially Bren Vamadevan, Construction Manager, and Richard Sunday 23 July Morgan, General Manager, Rhomberg Rail Australia Pty Ltd. Action returned to the mid and upper mountains. From early, a large group of volunteers from Local MP and Museum Patron Trish Doyle was Lawson RFS and staff from Lawson Bowling again on hand to enjoy the morning’s events. Club (“The Tank”) were in action to prepare for The crowd was pleasantly entertained by the the day’s events. At the same time, the team Blue Mountains Ukulele Group, whist Lawson from Rhomberg Rail had been preparing their RFS remained on duty throughout the day, contribution to the activities. With Dave Grove’s efficiently carrying out the roles of guides, crowd valuable assistance, we again erected our control and first aid duty, as well as handing out commemorative panel (with some difficulty due to hundreds of programs. Andrew Tester and I rode the coldness of the surface and the pesky wind the shuttles all day selling many more raffle that had sprung up). Held in the grounds of the tickets as we travelled to and from Katoomba. At club, the program included track-laying day’s end, Dave and I dismantled our display and equipment and returned it to the Museum.

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Track-laying competition. Photos: Bren Vamadevan

In summary, the three day BM150 spectacular comments and ideas. During the two hour proved to be just that. With great support from session, there was plenty of animated interaction Head Office, the general public who packed the and excellent feedback. The meeting was also nine trains, fine weather, no major hiccups, attended by Mina Howard, President of the Mt wonderful exposure though many arms of the Victoria Progress Association, so that their media, and the engagement of the Wentworth organisation could benefit from the suggestions Falls and Lawson communities, a true team effort and lessons learnt from BM150. was achieved, a win-win for all stakeholders! Of course the encouragement and enthusiasm of my colleagues at Valley Heights, without whom the task would have been insurmountable, Diary note: the 150th anniversary event at Mt enabled us to make it through John Whitton’s Victoria has been set for 26/27 May 2018, with much changed landscape, with scarcely a smut steam loco availability confirmed by THNSW. in the eye! Thank you! This may lead to a change in the timing of our TBDO event that has previously been held on Footnote: that Sunday.

On Wednesday 9 August, Andrew Tester, Henk Luf and I attended a debriefing session with the organising group responsible for the events at Wentworth Falls and Lawson. We met many Keith Ward, Publicity Manager VHLDHM times over the months leading up to BM150 and this was a good opportunity to table our

TELL YOUR FRIENDS! Mid-week events, although needing extra planning and volunteer support, are always welcome. Valley Heights is the perfect site for special interest groups and attractive rates can be negotiated for birthday parties, wedding photography, film shoots, and so on. Please contact Keith Ward at the Museum on (02) 4751 4638 (leave message) if you know anyone who might be interested.

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5. Big trains X206 update 5711 update New member Alan Holley has joined the Over the last few months work has started again dedicated group led by Workshop Manager Terry on the tender. Matchett that is moving this project forward. There has been progress on the replacement of There have been some issues with this loco that 3 large gusset plates and 3 cross braces are regularly the focus of attention. These strengthening of the tender frame. problems mainly relate to hydraulics. As previously reported, X206 will be used on Removing the rusty fractured gusset plates Museum Open Days when steam is not available involved cutting the old rivet heads off and then (or desirable) as well as occasional shunting using a hydraulic jack to push them out. Some duties, once certified. rivets when removed were found to be crippled (bent) indicating stress between the two plates, Some comments from Terry typify some of the which could account for the cracked plates (see frustrations and challenges that have been photo). After removal, cleaning and descaling, encountered: the new plates were fitted, rivet holes were “The loco has not been co-operative as the marked and the plates removed and drilled on vehicle appears not to have any push when the horizontal borer. it’s running. Some changes are being carried New cross braces were also manufactured. out to the gear selection to lock the drive into low range. A limiter has been fitted to the All of these items will now be refitted and each diesel control. With the modification to the hole reamed to make sure the holes are true control panel gauges, the tachometer drive ready for riveting. Rivetting should take place in cable fractured. A replacement is being September when the engineering company will sourced through Dave Hunt.” be finished with 3801's boiler. Minor rust removal has been necessary on the turret section of the tender tank. Henk Luf, Large Exhibits Manager

Ted Dickson, Project Manager 5711

5711 Gusset plate removed 5711 Rusted and fractured gusset plate

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Drilling pilot hole in gusset Finished gusset plate

Drilling final size hole Cross brace in location Photos: Ted Dickson

Drilling cross brace. Photo: Ted Dickson Cut to pieces; well-worn bolts from 5711’s tender. Photo: Keith Ward

U-Boat trailer car (ETB6039) Some of the timber window sills on the car are are being progressively replaced by Dave Grove showing signs of deterioration due to weathering and the retirees group. LED lights have been over almost 60 years in service and on site. They purchased from England and look like a normal

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bayonet cap globe. At the present we can only floor is not viable, so a short path has been found operate six lights due to restrictions on the power from the H.T. compartment via the walkway supply. The car was closed to the public for a alongside the compartment, under the inter- short time due to suspected asbestos fibres connecting walkway thence concealed under a being noticed at the base of some of the internal safety “cable trench”. This addresses the control wall panels but, after inspection and testing by a wires (horn, brake controls and speaker wires), certified body, a clean bill of health was issued but it does not address the VGA (screen) cable and the theatrette is again open to the public and and 240 volt mains supply. In regard to 240 volt members on our Open Days. If you haven’t seen mains power, the plan is to install a female power our interesting seven minute video about the first point (of the type typically used in caravans and railway lines on the mountains, especially the camper vans for connection to the mains) under Lapstone Zig Zag, then do come and watch it, the side of the 46, above the bogies. This would then chat with long time volunteers Sue Fulton be easily accessible from the outside, but would and Dick Morony. not be visible. Mains power could then be reticulated to power points inside 4601. Cement Wagon During continuity testing of wiring as part of this Our (ex-Boral) hopper wagon has been on the process, some control voltages were found to be move! The coal that had been used for display lower than anticipated. This is probably due to purposes at its former home at Greystanes has the fact that some 46 class control devices been removed, with a great job done on the day (mainly magnet valves and relays) are actually by some of the Per Way team, assisted by still in circuit and the combined load of these member Michael Jessop, who has been working devices is slightly dragging down the working diligently on the paintwork in readiness for voltage. This is further complicated by the small historic signwriting and the wagon’s accreditation “demonstration” lights, which had been installed before its welcome addition to the “Valley to provide a working display of the locomotive's Heights Mixed”. The wagon also had a spell over control systems. These lights run on 3.5 volts, the pits, so Michael could paint the underframe. which means that the operating voltage has to be kept within a very narrow range; above 3.5 volts Henk Luf, Large Exhibits Manager for the simulator interface, but below 4 volts for the lights. An attempt to resolve this issue was made by splitting the supply into two different 4601 update voltages, but this solution didn't work, so, ultimately, these lights, and some of the Steve Corrigan has continued to toil away on the locomotive's control equipment, were 46 class train simulator and has made much disconnected, and the supply raised to 5 volts. progress. A detailed outline of his recent work on The plan is to restore the “demonstration” lights its operation and functionality appears below. at a future date, using dropping resistors to Work on developing the train simulator continued provide the correct supply voltage. It is also apace, concentrating in three areas: tidying up planned to replace the 12 volt power supply wiring, improving reliability and documentation. (currently an old truck battery and charger) with a permanent 12 volt power supply to be installed in Some work was carried out in finding a safe and the H.T. compartment, thus freeing the visually acceptable way of running wires between machinery compartment of any active electrical the High Tension (H.T.) compartment and the equipment, which will facilitate cleaning out this No. 2 end drivers cab. To date, during testing, compartment in the future. wires have simply been laid on the floor, which is not considered acceptable or safe for public Also, the interface unit, which up to now has access. Essentially there are two types of cables: been transported back and forth as needed, has low voltage (i.e. control signals at 5 volt, speaker now been left securely stowed in the No. 2 end leads and a VGA computer video cable) and compartment along with the computer. mains (240 volts) cables. Lifting the drivers cab

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Over several days, the reliability of the system was tested by simply running it continuously for periods of three to four hours. During this process, another intermittent problem occurred in which the simulator would not go back to idle when the accelerating handle was pushed back to “off”. After a particularly intense fault finding investigation the wire conveying signal “RT2”, which is energised when the accelerating handle is in the “off” position, was found to be attached to the power control circuit board by a defective solder joint. So far this problem hasn't re- appeared.

After the above mentioned problems were addressed, the system performed satisfactorily, including during a “road test” by trainee 46 class driver Henk “Clogs” Luf.

Train simulator computer & interface unit in No. 2 end H.T. compartment.

“Clogs” in action at the controls.

Photos: Steve Corrigan

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An operating manual for the simulator has been · Implement secure mounting for the screen produced. This document provides instructions and speakers for setting up, operating and shutting down the · Tidy up some wiring in the drivers’ area, simulator, detailed description (circuit diagrams, especially around the drivers’ foot well circuit board layouts, connection tables etc.) and · Carry out more endurance testing to confirm describes all changes made to original 4601 reliability wiring. · Implement a tidier and safer, provision of 240 Prior to going public, the following tasks remain: volt mains power Steve Corrigan, 4601 Project Manager

6. On the "four foot" Coal Stage Road After many months closure and following a The latest section of track was inspected and generous donation from Honorary Life Member passed by Les Kelleher (THNSW Rail Roslyn Reynolds, the Coal Stage Road has Infrastructure Manager) in mid-July. returned to operational use. Derryville Rail was This work could not have been completed engaged to carry out the much needed work to without the efforts and resources of Derryville this historic road. Near new sleepers, donated by Rail as contractor, the financial resources of that company, have been laid on a well graded Roslyn Reynolds, STARPS and the Museum and and ballasted bed and even a new stop block the continued work done by members and installed. volunteers alike to ensure that this important This work saved many months of hard labour by asset is available for use by the Museum for members and volunteers through all sorts of many years to come. The Coal Stage Road weather. The lower part of the road (about 30 allows the display of the Museum’s activities on a metres) had already been done under the regular basis to the passing traffic on the watchful eye of John Stanley until his passing highway showing that the Museum is alive and late last year. A resolute and hardy team well preserving the history of Valley Heights and continued and finally finished that length through the Blue Mountains. a very hot spell in summer.

Roslyn Reynolds set to cut the ribbon. (First Open Day The Derryville Rail team celebrates the finished job with using the newly re-laid Coal Stage Road”) Roslyn Reynolds, Photo: Keith Ward Photo: Peter Butler

No 117 September 2017

Fettlers' Shed The rail laying is now complete and conduits There has been a push to identity and dispose of installed for water and electricity. Final levelling timber sleepers suitable for landscaping or and drilling of uprights needs to be done. surplus to requirements. This project has Following the decision to lay a concrete floor, progressed well and donations to date for quotes have been received and evaluated and sleepers collected from the site have reached the job will commence when funds are available. $224, with further negotiations to follow. Dave Grove's Retirees Group that meets monthly, has built formwork boxes to mark the locations of the posts when the concrete slab is Chris Troy, Per Way Manager poured.

7. Shopping trends While there was only one open day in May Another new title, (closed for Mothers' Day), that one event, “Teddy “Vantage Point Bears’ Day Out” (report elsewhere) certainly NSW”, is now made up for it, as it was actually slightly busier available. It is than last year’s Santa Sunday, making it the essentially a picture biggest day of the last financial year (although album of NSW marginally smaller than TBDO of 2016). However steam, however it total revenue on the day was up 10% on the does contain some same day last year. Our top seller was the toy unique and pull back trains featured in DD116. particularly lovely photography. Multi Our first Open Day in June (10th) was on the skilled member Queen’s Birthday weekend but it proved to be Michael Jessop is now making a 46 class fridge exceptionally busy, with well above average magnet, which we now sell. Michael has also visitations and plenty of income despite an provided us with another unique item for sale, an equipment problem, in the form of an overheated HO scale model of a fettlers’ shed based on the (overused? Ed.) eftpos machine. Thanks to John actual design we will have on our site soon, as Carter’s good work, and a pleasingly quick you will read about elsewhere. It is available as a response by Westpac, this was replaced in time kit ($25) or fully assembled ($35). Thank you for the next Open Day. Card transactions again Mike, lovely work! sometimes exceed cash takings so this unit is now a critical piece of equipment. Don’t forget to bring your credit card with you on your next visit to the shop. There is always something there to tempt the eye, heart and wallet! (Note, we actually don’t mind if the machine is overused!) July was an upbeat month with the extra Open Day on the BM150 weekend, during which some of our visitors also caught steam shuttles. Visitation totalled over 350 for the month, and also boosted our shop sales, that were well above average. Completed model fettlers' shed. Photo: Grant Robinson

In stock news, “Sydney’s Forgotten Sidings” a Coming Items: two more issues of the popular new release, is now almost sold out and the long “By-Ways” series are expected later this year, anticipated book “Shooting the West” has just watch this space. been delivered. Steve Corrigan, Retail Manager

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8. Small exhibits The eagerly anticipated Call Boy exhibition has designed and ordered. It explains the changes in been finalised following the hard work of many, railway station names in the Blue Mountains and especially volunteer Sue Fulton. Make sure you was used at our BM150 display at Emu Plains in drop in to the former DLE’s building when next at July (see image elsewhere). The sign now “pops the Museum and admire the new display. Two of up” every Open Day and is restrained by a the sloping glass topped display cases relocated special wooden bracket on the side of the from this building will be used to enhance the courtyard wall. Very well received by visitors and story of the Caves Express (RBR1049) and Milk members alike, it ties in with the historic station Wagon (MRC27506) seat names recently painted by member Frank Coy. With financial support from THNSW Collections Manager, Jennifer Edmonds and extensive input Mike Pensini, Small Exhibits Manager from our signage group a mobile pull up sign was

9. Our models VH Depot Model Railway Room Don’t forget to inspect the latest work being The Museum has accepted the generous offer of carried out on the loop. A hinged bridge has two locomotives plus a large number of excellent been built and wired crossing the narrow kit built four wheeled vehicles from member Don passageway used for operator access. Chandler, who has also donated a sizeable Emergency switches have been installed to stop amount of money, which is part of the proceeds a train in the event of an open bridge, thus of his sale of locos and rolling stock to our preventing an accidental disaster. Further members and the Christian model fellowship electrical work has been completed to overcome (who are also beneficiaries of the sale). Don has power supply issues near the “Y” turning area asked that the money be spent on the layouts. and on the coal stage. Roger Dohnt and Michael

Jessop also spend some Saturday mornings working on the layout. Ray Beharrell, Model Railway Manager

10. Buildings and grounds … Workshop news the EHO guard’s van at the rear of the Roundhouse. Two buffers were fitted to the Museum’s “S” truck to make shunting safer. However, one buffer on the other end of this vehicle needs attention. Terry Matchett, Workshop Manager Our hi-rail vehicle “Mario” failed again recently, however, the cause was found and with the assistance of Eddie at Hydraulube it is again Building restoration operational. To prevent future failures of this Our rebuilt wooden phone box is nearing nature a modification will be carried out. A completion with member Dennis Brown finishing pressure gauge and fittings for Mario (valued at a faithful reproduction of the inside paint work. approximately $130) were donated by BGS This project, with useful help from Mike Pensini, Hydraulics (Emu Plains) Bob Matthew and others has transformed it from A steel rack has been manufactured and will be its earlier condition having languished in the used to store our stock of steel flat bar alongside Roundhouse for some years. The box now needs

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an old fashioned pay phone (any offers or The perennial scourge of a site built around ideas?), a door closer, a decision on its final timber supports – termite attack - was noticed in resting place and a superhero with external a couple of locations after the recent regular undies! inspection. They were attended to, otherwise all is well. Further progress was made on the repainting of the exterior of the former amenities building (for A large acrylic sheet has been installed as a our newer members, now the shop/café) permanent cover for the job maintenance chalkboard from DELEC that has been mounted on the rear wall of the Roundhouse (near 4601). A suggestion from STARPS led to the construction of timber steps with a landing, at the eastern end of the terminus platform to allow for safer passenger movement when the LFA carriage is being used a part of the “Mixed” consist. It also makes the train crew’s job easier when aligning the carriage with the steps. The metal steps used previously have been earmarked for access to the U-Boat.

Jeff Russell & Dave Grove manoeuvre the acrylic panel into Dave Grove, Building Restoration Manager place.

New platform steps take shape under Dennis Brown’s Ready for use: the new platform steps after a coat of paint guiding hands Photos: Keith Ward

No 117 September 2017

Museum stalwart Dave Hunt has been busy Building Services repairing the log splitter and lights on the tractor. Fence construction Our fully funded boundary fence along the Ted Dickson, Building Services Manager southern perimeter of the property is close to completion. Electricity “Around the Grounds” Member Glenn Hargrave has been busy around The regular tasks of mowing, weed poisoning the site. He installed several power points to and new plantings continue throughout the year. relieve the congestion of leads and power If you have green thumbs and would like to assist boards, has commenced the huge task of testing in this department, please consider joining our and tagging all of our portable tools and cords merry band of gardeners. Honorary Life Member and also installed heavier grade sub mains Roslyn Reynolds has made a good start on power circuits from our main switchboard to the cleaning up the Civil Depot precinct and with end of the Roundhouse. This was required to qualified arborist Luke Tolhurst has begun accommodate the extra load of the new air fertilizing the garden areas. conditioners.

The LED lights erected for the arrival road Steve Dive, Grounds Manager worked well on our recent steam weekend when steam loco 3642 was stabled for two nights at the Depot.