WCRA NEWS

JUNE 2008

SQUAMISH to CELEBRATE at “STEAMIN’ TO BC 150” JUNE 28 WCRA News, Page 2

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

The General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 1930 hours at the Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby.

Entertainment will be announced at the meeting.

ON THE COVER

An historic photo that celebrates WCRA’s 50 years since the start of our organization as the Hi-Ballers in 1958. In this Gary Oliver photo we see members Brian Biddlecomb, Keith Anderson, Bill Brown (top) and Martin Jergens (bottom) at CPR Drake Street on January 3, 1959 on the occasion of the last steam locomotive, CPR 4-6-2 #2709, being steamed up. #2709 was retained after the end of steam operations and used to supply shop and coach yard steam occasionally when needs required it. More on page 4-5.

JUNE CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Wednesday, June 4—Deadline for items to be included in the July 2008 WCRA News • June 14 & 15—Interchange 2008 Model Railroad Conference at Chilliwack • Sunday, June 15—Father’s Day at the Heritage Park, • Tuesday, June 17—WCRT Coastal Circle Tour departs. • Tuesday, June 17—Tours Committee Meeting, call Bernie at 604-325-0923 • Tuesday, June 24 —WCRA General Meeting, 1930 hours, Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby, BC • Saturday, June 28—”Steamin’ to BC 150” - BC 150 Community Celebration at West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a charity. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. E Members (electronic newsletter, $15 savings) are $35 individual and $45 family. (Outside , please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee) $700 individual life / $1,200 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission, mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2. WCRA News, Page 3 EDITORIAL

ALL ABOARD FOR BC 150 CELEBRATION EVENTS

2008 is a very special year for the Province of British Columbia, as we celebrate 150 years since the Province was named and the capital established. Throughout the year, special events will occur around the Province celebrating our history and our heritage.

While railways weren’t here 150 years ago, it was the promise of a railway connection that was key in the decision for British Columbia becoming a part of the Confederation of Canada. It took many more years before that became a reality, but on May 23, 1887 the job was complete and the first train rolled into Vancouver, pulled by steam locomotive #374. (see it today at the 374 Pavilion, at the Roundhouse Community Centre)

Caring for and celebrating that history is our core mission as members of the West Coast Railway Association. We celebrated the anniversary of the arrival of locomotive #374 at the 374 Pavilion on May 18, 2008, as we do each year. Thankfully this historic locomotive did survive, was turned over to the City of Vancouver, was restored by WCRA and CRHA for exhibit and display at Expo ‘86, then got a new permanent home in Vancouver thanks to the Central Lions Club and others, and now is exhibited and cared for as an attraction by WCRA’s volunteers. Everyone should come by and see this important piece of BC history, open daily for your viewing to learn about how the railway connected us to our country.

Up at Squamish, there was no official celebration for the BC 150 on the books, so WCRA has taken the initiative to create an event for the community, which will be held on June 28th. Everyone is being invited to Steamin’ To BC 150, which will be open to all community groups in Squamish, have a First Nations component, present great entertainment and celebrate our history. For WCRA’s part, this will be the next steam up for the Royal Hudson, so expect a great day and a great show. Mark June 28 on your calendars now.

Celebrating our heritage is what we are all about. We invite all members to join us as we do this in a visual and exciting way. Don ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE APRIL GENERAL MEETING

The General Meeting of the West Coast Railway Association was held at 1930 hours on April 29, 2008 with Colin Dathan chairing the meeting and 45+ in attendance: • Don Evans provided the President’s Report, commenting on a rather difficult start to the year and a series of significant cost reductions that have had to be taken. He also updated WCRA News, Page 4

the financial situation we were faced with and actions taken to get things back on track. • Susan Steen gave the Heritage Park report, noting a successful Clean Up Weekend in April, and asking members to continue to come as there is still lots of things to be done. She noted work being done in the Archives (Bill & Bob) and showed a new Archival Manual put together by Trevor Mills to support archival work done by our volunteers. • Colin Smith reported on progress on the Roundhouse project, noting the pouring of the track pads and work underway at Canron on the steel • Don Evans noted that a track realignment project was scheduled to be done in May to ease the curves on the access tracks to the station for the Royal Hudson • Susan Steen advised members of two upcoming events at the Heritage Park, the Mother’s Day Tea May 11 and the BC 150 Community event set for June 28th • Eric Anderson presented us with Canadian Tire Coupons • Jim Brown invited members to come out to the Locomotive 374 Anniversary event, set for May 18th at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Vancouver. He also noted that we have hired a summer student for this summer season to staff the 374 Pavilion. • Bernie Tully reported on the upcoming Interchange 2008 model railroad conference and show set for Chilliwack on June 14 and 15. WCRA and West Coast Mini Rail will both be there. • Don Evans gave a collection update, noting the Henry Pickering being back in service on the Whistler Mountaineer, locomotive 4069 and 561 being inspected by Transport Canada, and continuing improvements on the Royal Hudson. • Bill Johnston gave a tours update, noting that the plans for #2141 from Kamloops to Armstrong have been changed, but our tour date was still a go as scheduled. • Jeremy Davy presented a cheque from Western Rails 2007 towards both Mini Rail and the Troop Sleeper project. • Ryan Cruickshank presented his Trackside Report • Books and videos were available for sale at the break • The 50 / 50 draw was held • Entertainment was a Video—Scenic Railways of the World

50 YEARS AGO—HI-BALLERS

As mentioned in last month’s newsletter, the predecessor to the WCRA, the original group called the Hi-Ballers, first met and decided to form as a group in April 1958. They went on to be incorporated officially in 1961, and named the West Coast Railfan Association (which became the West Coast Railway Association of today).

We managed to find a few photos of the early group in our archives, they are from the camera of Gary Oliver and were taken in 1958 / 1959, as near as we can get photographically of the young group and some of their early activities. We are delighted that several of the original Hi-Ballers remain members of WCRA today, 47 years later. WCRA News, Page 5

Above, Meet the Hi-Ballers, (L-R) Brian Biddlecomb, Martin Jergens, Glen McGregor, John Morton, Keith Anderson, Larry Russell, Doug Cummings, Roger Burrows, Hugh Little

photo by Gary Oliver, CPR Drake Street club tour, February 7, 1959.

Left, the Hi-Ballers Railfan Club has a display at an indentified location.

Gary Oliver photo.

WCRA News, Page 6

WCRA TRIVIA # 233 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank

What is the oldest railway roundhouse still standing in North America? (for answer, see Credit Lines) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Memberships dated 04/30/2008 have now expired, and if your membership expired 02/28/2008, this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew today. Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter—check page 2 for current membership rates.

Is your email address current???? It is particularly important that those of you who have registered for access to the Members Only area keep your email address current in the Server. Each time a new issue is posted the Server sends a notice to the email address you supplied when you requested access. Because the undeliverable messages from a Server do not bounce back to it I have no way to be proactive.

If you have changed your email address, or think the one we have is out of date because you do not receive notices, please send your current email address to Jeremy at [email protected] and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.)

NEW MEMBERS

The WCRA welcomes new members Christine Craig & family, Danielle Doucette & family of Brackendale, Samantha Gale of Vancouver, Karen Goldsmith & family, William Puckering & family of Surrey, Shannon Roland & family, Cliff & Linda Wood & family of Garibaldi Highlands, and William Page of Vancouver. (J.D.)

COLLECTION

POWER CAR REPAIRED

We are pleased to report that our HEP car WCXX 9622 Macdonald Creek has been repaired after vandals cut out some of the copper cabling from the car’s underside. Thanks to Dave Thethi, Tomo’o Oshikawa and Mike Smith for the work. Materials came from Westburne Electric, Triton, and Alta Lake Electric and the total costs came in below expectations.

ALBERTA PROJECT

Progress is being made with steelwork on the business car . Stairs have now been fitted to the north end and rust repairs have been made with rust cut out and new fabricated steel WCRA News, Page 7 panels welded in. Work has now moved to the south end of the car with a similar plan. Work is also progressing on prep work for paint. Our main focus is working towards paint and windows as quickly as we can. (R.J.)

ROYAL HUDSON

Andy Faris continues to work on a number of upgrade and maintenance items including: • Rebuilding the air compressor lubricator • Removed the front end superheater plates and performed full inspection • Repaired low pressure steam cylinder packing leak on the air compressor • Rebuilt one steam dynamo and started the other.

We have also now measured the lateral on number 2 drive wheels to verify previous information and develop a plan to meet Transport Canada’s requirements. Using machinist snap gauges we measured the lateral to be 0.916” instead of 1.25” that had been reported in the past. We now know that we have a lateral that exceeds requirements by only 0.166”. We are working on a plan to correct this and meet Transport Canada’s regulations. (R.J.)

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION FUND

We acknowledge our monthly contributors Dave Walker, Richard Tubbesing, and Ernie & Lynn Ledgerwood. Our total now is now $638,129. Remember, you can make a donation on line through www.wcra.org , and we still need your help as we have spent more than $100,000 in excess of funds donated so far, and continue to improve the locomotive for future operations.

HENRY PICKERING

Prior to being released to Whistler Mountaineer for lease a complete inspection was completed on the Henry Pickering and the Passenger Car Single Car Test was performed using VIA’s passenger single car tester. Car was jacked on both ends and both trucks were removed for inspection. A side bearing problem was corrected along with a number of minor issues. (R.J.)

FP7A #4069

Pre-season inspections and major clean up have been done on FP7A #4069 as it is on standby for the Whistler Mountaineer. Unit is ready for use with Whistler Mountaineer and was used in the filming of a Country Music Video on May 6.(see page 18) The vinyl patches on the sides of the unit have been removed and it has been restored to its full Canadian Pacific heritage livery. New magnetic “Whistler Mountaineer” covers have been ordered to be applied when the loco goes out in that service. (R.J.) WCRA News, Page 8 CLINTON FEATURED IN CLASSIC TRAINS

WCRA’s historic Pacific Great Eastern sleeping car Clinton was featured in a major article in the Spring 2008 issue of Classic Trains Magazine. The article, “From Louisville to Lillooet” told the story of these electric interurban cars, which originally ran in Indiana, and how they ended up on the Pacific Great Eastern Railway as sleeping cars. (D.Sh.)

The Clinton was constructed in 1924 for the Interstate Public Service Co. to interurban design standards. Pacific Great Eastern acquired the car in 1937. Its lightweight design was appropriate for PGE’s light rail and sharp curves. It provided PGE’s first on board sleeping accommodation.

FUNDRAISING

PRESIDENT’S REPORT – APRIL 2008

April was a challenging and a very busy month as we dealt with many items…...

Funding Asks Made • Roundhouse Sponsorship asks • Turntable funding ask • Gaming Direct Access 2008 application submitted

Major Funding Received • Heritage Park donations $569 • General donations $1,223 • In kind donations $15,517 • New debentures $90,000 • United Way designated donation $550 • MP Shops donation $10,000 • Western Rails donation $1,000

Month Total $118,859 Year to Date Total $ 987,285 (General purposes $287,285, Endowment Fund $700,000)

Other Significant Activities • Prepared Gaming Direct Access application • Worked on transition with staff changes at Heritage Park • Worked to successfully secure bank financing for payables • Met with Transport Canada re Royal Hudson strategy • Developed possible future leasing plans for MP 2 and met with BCR Properties • Worked to secure filming for country music video at Heritage Park for May 6 WCRA News, Page 9 WESTERN RAILS PRESENTS CHEQUE

Western Rails presented a cheque in the amount of $1,000 to WCRA at the April meeting. $500 is to go towards West Coast Mini Rail to purchase a new technology charger for Squamish, and $500 goes towards the Troop Sleeper project headed by Donna Fourchalk and her team of ex PGE / BC Rail volunteers. Thanks, Western Rails!

SQUAMISH CHIEF DONATES SPACE

The Squamish Chief / Whistler Question newspapers have donated advertising space in their editions worth $6,148.80 in 2008. The space will carry the monthly Heritage Park Happenings column by Don Evans, as well as several event ads throughout the year. Thanks to Publisher Tim Shoults for this support. (S.S.)

DEBENTURES AVAILABLE, GREAT INTEREST RATE

The West Coast Railway Association continues to offer a series of debentures to members to help fund the installation of the vintage turntable at the Heritage Park and our operations in this challenging year. The costs of servicing and preparing the site have been higher than expected, and we need to make unexpected repairs to the turntable bridge structure itself. We are wanting to complete the installation of the turntable and open CN Turntable Plaza in fall 2008. We really need your help here.

Debentures are offered in the same terms as previous offerings—a three year term to maturity, annual interest rate of 5%, and multiples of $500. Given the falling interest rates on savings these days, 5% is a very good rate. Here is a way that you can get involved and help, as well as see a good return on your investment. For more information contact Jim Brown at 604-681- 4403 or Don Evans at 604-988-3435.

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

THE 2008 TOUR PROGRAM IS NOW GETTING UNDERWAY

Apart from the tours shown in these pages please remember that our tours office is available weekdays to book independent trips. For example we issue tickets for Canada, , the White Pass and Route Railroad and the Alaska Railroad as full-service agents for those lines. Vacations new 2008 brochure is now available; call for your copy and book with us. We also have the 2008 Trafalgar Tours brochures ready to send. They include the following destinations: Europe & Britain, Australia & New Zealand, USA & Canada, and River Cruises. We will pop the brochure of your choice in the mail as soon as you make the call to 604-524-1011 or toll free 1-800-722-1233. You can also e-mail us on [email protected]. WCRA News, Page 10

We also combine air, coach, ferry and cruise ships with rail services to customize itineraries throughout the USA and Canada. Flying east or south? Let us book you on WestJet, our preferred air carrier. For trips of 4 days or more we offer free home pickups and drop-offs in the Vancouver area. (B.J.)

MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year – 2 days

Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel— a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the VIA Rail station at 7:30 AM. Board the train for an 8:00 AM departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives before noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the southbound train at 2:00 PM and get off at Nanaimo at about 3:00 PM. A waiting, pre-booked taxi takes you to Nanaimo’s bus depot for the 4:30 PM departure of Greyhound’s scheduled service to Vancouver. Dinner on the ferry is available. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 PM.

FARES: $224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise, $224). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more.

THE GREAT PLAINS and ROCKIES by TWO NAME TRAINS — 6 days

A unique chance to travel on two great “name” trains to visit the centre of the North American Continent from the comfort of your private sleeping compartments, dining cars, lounges and scenic domes. Enjoy the Canadian Rockies and the vast Prairies to Winnipeg then America’s Northern States and Mountain Parks. Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays - from Vancouver Day 1: Check in at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station to board The Canadian eastbound through Vancouver’s eastern suburbs and the lower Fraser Valley. Take dinner in the diner and retire for the night in your choice of sleeping accommodation. Day 2: Before breakfast you are in the heart of the Rockies. Stop in Jasper for a break off the train. Re-board the train and you are on your way out of the mountains and into Alberta’s verdant foothills. After a stop in you are on your way east across the prairies crossing Saskatchewan overnight in your comfortable bed. Day 3: By breakfast time you are in and late in the morning arrive in Winnipeg. After a transfer to a beautiful old railway hotel you have the afternoon free to visit local sights. Day 4: Breakfast is available in the dining room of your hotel before you check out and take a taxi for the short ride to the Greyhound depot. Here you board a modern motorcoach for Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. (passport required.) Once there you transfer to the Amtrak WCRA News, Page 11 station across the mighty Mississippi River to neighbouring St. Paul and board The Empire Builder. Once aboard you settle into your sleeping room for the start of your westbound journey. Day 5: Breakfast is available in the dining car as your train heads west across sparsely populated North Dakota. You are in Montana by noon and by dinnertime are skirting the Rockies’ famous Glacier National Park. Day 6: You can expect arrival in Seattle mid-morning. Our Amtrak connecting Thruway motorcoach leaves at 1:15 PM for Surrey, Richmond and Vancouver arriving back at Pacific Central Station, the starting point, at 5 PM.

FARE: The 6-Day Tour, based on shared accommodation. From Cdn $1295 per person. Single fares start at Cdn $1495. Price depends on age of guests, number traveling together, type of sleeping accommodation on the trains, date of booking, date of travel, and US$ exchange rate. Our price will be cheaper than doing this on your own. Add a night in Seattle and take the morning “Cascades” train service to Vancouver for an extra $99 per person including your hotel.

TWO TRAINS & TWO FERRIES; MID - COASTAL CIRCLE TOUR Tuesday, June 17th Vancouver Island, The Discovery Coast, Chilcotin & Cariboo Regions, Whistler - 7 Days With taxi and motorcoach vouchers supplied, you make your way to Victoria on any of the frequent services provided by Pacific Coach Lines. You leave early to sightsee in Victoria or arrive in time for a welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant. The next morning you are transferred to the VIA Rail station and board the E&N Malahat Dayliner for its departure to Courtenay. Upon arrival your motorcoach takes you to a comfortable modern hotel in Port McNeill for the night. Frequent stops for sightseeing are made along the way. After breakfast on day 3 you board your motorcoach for Bear Cove where you embark on Queen of Chilliwack, Discovery Coast Ferry sailing for Bella Coola. For the next 13 hours wind your way through Queen Charlotte Strait, Fitz Hugh Sound, and Burke Channel. Day 4 is spent soaking up Bella Coola’s history and First Nations culture predominant in the area, all interpreted by a local guide. On day 5 you traverse the wild Chilcotin region after a climb up the infamous “Big Hill” that takes you from the coastal rain forest up and over the rugged Coast Mountains through Heckman Pass. Spend the night in Williams Lake. On day 6 you travel through the south Cariboo region, to Clinton for lunch and traverse Cayoosh Canyon and the scenic Duffey Lake Road to the mountain resort village of Whistler, home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. On your final day take a chance to sleep in or enjoy this beautiful mountain village. After lunch you get a coach transfer to the “Whistler Mountaineer” train service for your return to the coast via Squamish and Howe Sound. Beverages and a meal are served at your seat. In North Vancouver transfer to downtown Vancouver and home ending the tour. FARES: The 7-Day Tour: $1592 each based on shared accommodation; BC Seniors only - $1532. Single Supplement: $538. Shorten this tour by a day, save $62 and join the group in Port McNeill on June 18th by Greyhound coach. WCRA News, Page 12

WHITE PASS and YUKON ROUTE STEAM SPECTACULAR - Friday, July 11th Whitehorse, Yukon, and vintage train service all the way from Skagway to Carcross, YT, plus hours of Impressive Mountain Steam Railroading - 4 days NEW CHANGES Free pickup at your Lower Mainland area home or hotel is organized for departure from Vancouver’s International Airport by Air North’s late morning departure for Whitehorse. Upon arrival you take a scenic tour along the Alaska Highway to Miles Canyon and then check in at your hotel for the afternoon and evening. Visit the restored “Klondike” river boat and ride the riverfront trolley. We also recommend the “Frantic Follies” revue, for great entertainment. You have the next morning free to visit the attractions in Whitehorse before a mid-day departure by chartered motorcoach on the South Klondike Highway to Skagway, AK. Rest stops will be made in Carcross and scenic overlooks. You must have an early breakfast today in order to get aboard the special steam excursion to Fraser Meadows. Boarding commences at 7:15 AM for departure at 7:30 AM. (8:30 AM BC time). The station is one block around the corner from the hotel. You will enjoy great mountain railroading behind steam! This 85 km round trip terminates at Fraser Meadows, BC, 10 km north of White Pass. Upon your return just before noon you will have the afternoon free in Skagway to explore this historic village. Your tour guide will have dinner suggestions about a good variety of restaurants in the village. On your last day you will be transferred from your hotel to the WP&YR shops to board the special “Yukon Adventure” train for Carcross. Awaiting you at Lake Bennett will be a hot meal. You arrive in Carcross at 2:30 PM (3:30 PM, BC time) where your motorcoach will transfer you to Whitehorse Airport for the evening Air Canada flight to Vancouver. We arrange transportation to your home in the lower mainland. Ask about add-ons and extra days in the north.

FARES: The 4-Day Tour, Friday to Monday is only $1394 each based on shared

VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WEST COAST - Tuesday, August 12th via Coastal Supply Vessel, E&N Train, & Port Alberni Steam Mill & Railway - 4 days NEW CHANGES

Your free pickup gets you to the 8:30 AM sailing by BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay. Upon arrival at Nanaimo’s Departure Bay your coach will follow the Island’s scenic east coast to Courtenay for lunch. Here you will board the E&N Malahat Dayliner for its southbound trip to Parksville. Your coach meets you for a transfer to Coombs Junction Market. Then it’s off to Port Alberni for a visit to the top-rated Alberni Valley Museum. You will have time to relax before a buffet dinner at a seaside restaurant. Next morning you leave the hotel for the short trip to the dock to board the “Frances Barkley“, a coastal supply vessel that services Alberni Inlet. It stops briefly at Sechart in the Broken Group Islands before continuing on to Ucluelet. After lunch on your own on the boat we are met by our coach at about 12:30 PM and spend the afternoon sightseeing along Pacific Rim National Park. We will visit Tofino for a mid afternoon break and return to Ucluelet for the evening. A gourmet dinner is included here. Thursday morning wake up and relax over a late brunch in a nearby restaurant. At 1:30 PM we take a local tour and leave the Long Beach unit of Pacific Rim National Park for Port Alberni. WCRA News, Page 13

Stops will be made at scenic overlooks for a snack and the water bomber base. You check in to the Port Alberni Hotel and relax before a farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant. After breakfast next morning you depart for the railway station where you will board the train for its 10:00 AM departure for the McLean Mill National Historic site, (the only steam operated sawmill in Canada). Upon arrival take a tour of the mill, and have a light lunch. You leave about 1:30 PM for the eastern side of the Island to catch the 4:30 PM sailing for Vancouver. (A stop at a rail station for those returning to Victoria on the Dayliner is possible).

FARES: NOW REDUCED! The 4-Day Tour, Tuesday to Friday is $850 each based shared accommodation. (BC Seniors $830). Single Supplement - $282. Extra day via Victoria: 5-Days including the train to Victoria, hotel and return transportation to Vancouver on Saturday, (unescorted): $930, (BC Seniors $898). Single Supplement - $342.

TWO STEAM TRAINS, FISH and WINE PLUS CASINO FUN - Friday, September 5th A great opportunity to ride behind two steam locomotives in the Okanagan region, taste some great wines and see fish spawning - 4 days NOTE DATE CHANGES

Leave Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station by chartered motorcoach for highway no. 7 on the scenic north side of the Fraser River from Mission to downtown Agassiz and the museum housed in the oldest wooden railroad station in B.C. Follow the Fraser Canyon and stop for lunch at the Hell’s Gate Air . Then it’s on to Skihist Park overlooking Rainbow Canyon of the Thompson River and the railways operating through this most difficult part of the river valley. You overnight in Kamloops after a welcome dinner. Next morning your coach will transfer you to the Kamloops Heritage Railway’s train with steam locomotive #2141. The train climbs from Campbell Creek up into ranching country en route to Armstrong.

Continuing by motorcoach you visit O'Keefe Ranch for lunch and proceed on to Penticton with a stop to view spawning fish at Peachland’s Hardy Creek Park. You stay at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino on Okanagan Lake’s south shore for 2 nights. If you like casinos this is an excellent one. Next morning leave for the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. The train takes you along the hills overlooking Summerland and on to the Trout Creek Bridge, the highest on the former line. You will then have lunch on board the SS Sicamous, the beautifully restored lake steamer on the beach in Penticton. This is followed by a tour to a local winery after which you will return to your hotel for the evening. The next morning your group will depart for Osoyoos where you will see one of the best model railroads anywhere (Osoyoos Desert Railroad). Then it’s off to the Grist Mill at Keremeos for a tour and lunch. You then take the Crowsnest Route, back to the coast with stops at a fruit stand and Manning Park Lodge. This ends a great circle tour through BC’s most interesting highlights.

FARES: $787 each based shared accommodation; Single Supplement: $ 183

WCRA News, Page 14

th VANCOUVER ISLAND RAILFAN SPECIAL – Friday, September 19 – 3 days

You depart at 7:20 AM for the 9:00 AM sailing from Tsawwassen through the Gulf Islands to Victoria. You make a stop at the Butchart Gardens, and the Royal BC Museum and stay overnight in a comfortable Victoria hotel. Saturday September 20: We depart our hotel at 7AM for a ride on the VIA Rail E&N Malahat Dayliner up Vancouver Island to the end of the line in Courtenay. We then bus transfer to a unique market and stay in Parksville by the sea for the evening. Sunday September 21st: We cross the Island’s central mountains to Port Alberni for a Steam train charter with photo runbys and tour Canada’s only remaining steam -operated sawmill. We stop at Cathedral Grove for a walk through the magnificent forest and return by ferry to Vancouver late afternoon via Nanaimo and Horseshoe Bay.

FARES: The 3-Day Tour: $396 based on shared accommodation. Single: $556

THE CANADIAN ROCKIES AND ALBERTA’S STEAM TRAINS - Tuesday, September 23rd – 5 days

Depart on VIA Rail’s Canadian at 5:30 PM in your comfortable sleeper. Meals included. Day 2: Wake up this morning in the heart of the Canadian Rockies following raging rivers and with any luck a view of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. At 11 AM you arrive in Jasper where you will have an hour to walk around, photograph a Mountain type steam engine and explore the visitor’s center and historic railway station. We arrive in Edmonton at 5:30 PM where we transfer to our hotel next to the . Day 3: You will tour Edmonton today riding the impressive Light Rail system and later visit the West Edmonton Mall, the world's largest entertainment and shopping centre and Alberta's number one tourist attraction. At 2:30 PM you are bused to the which houses a collection of various railway equipment and buildings. Their emphasis is on cars and locomotives from the Canadian National Railways (CNR) and Northern Alberta Railways (NAR). At 4:30 PM you depart for an overnight stop in Red Deer, Alberta. Day 4: You depart the hotel at 8:30 AM for the Alberta Prairie Railway at Stettler, Alberta. Dramatic excitement behind a steam loco awaits you. All excursions include a full course buffet meal which is included in the fare, on board entertainment and maybe even a train robbery. During your journey on board the train to Big Valley you will travel through the beautiful rolling and treed countryside of Alberta's Parkland. Overnight in Drumheller. Day 5: An outstanding day today as you visit The Royal Tyrrell Museum celebrating the long history and spectacular diversity of life - from the tiniest grains of pollen to the mightiest dinosaurs. Set in the Alberta badlands, the Museum opened in September, 1985. About half a million people per year come to experience the power and excitement of some of the most remarkable fossil displays anywhere in the world, in Canada’s only institution devoted entirely to paleontology. At 11:15 AM you head for ’s Heritage Park arriving shortly after WCRA News, Page 15 lunch. This renowned park features street car and steam train rides, roundhouse and railway exhibits as well as a complete town site with buildings from the early days of Calgary. At 4 PM depart by bus to Light Rail (C-Train) to downtown Calgary then bus to hotel or local Hobby shop. (Options: Continue tour with Steam train to Vancouver below, fly out this evening from Calgary or take the Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver. FARE: call for details.

CPR STEAM THROUGH THE ROCKIES Westbound from Calgary September 28th or Eastbound from Vancouver on October 5th on 6-day itineraries. These tours are once-in-a-lifetime escapes behind CPR Steam Locomotive Empress no. 2816 crossing British Columbia’s many mountain ranges in classic transcontinental coaches. Westbound overnight stops are made in , Revelstoke, and Kamloops. Eastbound is a “rare mileage” adventure with stops in Kamloops, Golden, Cranbrook and Lethbridge traversing the .

FARE: from $3995. Includes hotels, meals, transfers, one-way airfare to/from Calgary, admissions, and entertainment. Call for a detailed itinerary.

WHISTLER MOUNTAINEER RAIL-FAN SPECIAL— Monday, September 22 , 1 day You depart from your Vancouver hotel or Waterfront Station at 7:00 AM in a transfer coach that takes you to North Vancouver to board the Whistler Mountaineer service departing at 8:00 AM. Arrival in Whistler is about 11:00 AM where you will be transferred to the village centre for lunch and sightseeing. Your chartered motorcoach will pick you up at the village bus-loop at 1:45 PM for a drive down the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway. At the West Coast Railway Heritage Park you will enjoy rail activities and interesting displays. Refreshments and a snack will also be available here. You depart the Railway Park at about 3:30 PM. Photo stops will be made at spectacular Shannon Falls and Britannia Beach before dropping you off at your pickup point in Vancouver.

SPECIAL FARE: $169.00. Limited seating, book early.

Remember: West Coast Rail Tours travel agency has IATA status so we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, motorcoaches, hotel accommodations, ferries and — our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent, as all of our tours serve as fundraisers for WCRA projects. Contact the tours office toll free at 1-800-722- 1233, or locally at 604-524-1011. Better yet e-mail us at [email protected] (B.J.)

West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way To Go WCRA News, Page 16

374 PAVILION

The number of visitors recorded for April was 1,154 as compared to 1,033 for the same period last year. Year to date visitors at 4,115 remains well ahead of the 3,172 recorded visitors for the previous year. The increase in visitors so far this year continues to set a good trend for 2008.

Turntable Plaza Project

The Roundhouse Facilities Committee has held several public processes to generate ideas on how to create a more dynamic, people place. The plaza has potential to be a gathering place, a space for performances and a neighborhood hub. Partner and public input has been received and plans are being finalized as to change the historic Turntable so it becomes a vital urban Plaza in the heart of the neighborhood. The final submission will made by the end of May.

374 Summer Student

I would like to introduce Vasti Beukman, our 374 Pavilion summer student who starts in the position of Guests Services effective Monday May 12, 2008. Vasti is a student at the University of Victoria and will be working with us until late August. The summer student position will supplement our dedicated group of volunteers during the busy summer period. Vasti will also be working closely with Susan Steen, our VP Heritage Park, to promote and encourage 374 guests to visit the Heritage Park in Squamish as well as implementing the expansion of the 374 gift shop during the busy summer months.

Volunteer’s Required for the 374 Pavilion

Please consider becoming a volunteer at the 374 pavilion. There are openings available on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Volunteers are the backbone of the 374 Pavilion. We would not be able to open and present the 374 pavilion without the help of our caring and enthusiastic volunteers. As volunteers you will have the opportunity to greet guests who come from all over the world to see the CPR 374 engine. Duties include: opening, closing the building and most important of all presenting the historical background of the 374 to visitors. Last year over 21,000 visitors came to the “374” and only through the efforts and dedication of our volunteer group were we able to accommodate them. We offer free parking and a very flexible schedule, either one day a week or two days a month whichever works best for you. If you are interested in assisting us and greeting a wide range of visitors please contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 / 604-985-7249 or e-mail [email protected] (J.B.)

WCRA News, Page 17

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

HERITAGE PARK CLEAN UP PROJECT

Well, just a huge thank-you to each and every one of you who braved the cold weekend weather and came out to the April 19 & 20 Clean Up Event at the Park.

Ron Anstey, Chris Forget, John and Fay Lighthall, Trevor Mills and Mom, Marion Mills, Roy and Judy Crowston, Lynn and Ernie Ledgerwood, Jim Saunders, Donna Fourchalk, Les Duke, Vivian Dawning, Jim Brown, John Jellis, Keith McGee, Sally Berry, Kyle Harris, Audrey Rhodes, Aaron Gruber, Don Evans, Deb Sankey, Rick Courage, Paul and Mary Roy, Don Lawrence…and a big thanks to the staff who worked on their days off…Karen Moodie, Randy Lucas, Barb Stover and Tomo’o Oshikawa. Gosh, I hope I haven’t missed anyone, but everyone’s efforts were much appreciated.

Above, Ron Anstey, Randy Lucas and Chris Forget working on assembly and organizations of small metal items which have been strewn around the centre north area of the site for some time. This area now looks considerably better—but still more to be done. WCRA News, Page 18

Thanks again to Dave Emmington for doing such a lot of pre-work to ready the effort so we could just get started without delay. And again, a big thanks to Mary Roy for a great lunch, enjoyed by all.

The hard work has made a real dent in our clean-up action list…the weather did not allow for painting to be done, but from new shelving, office clean-up, gardening, brush clearing and burning, and sorting of parts and general maintenance, it sure looks better!!

We now have a solid list of things that need doing here at the Park, so if you have any time to spare and want to give us a few hours, we can give you a job for an hour, a day or longer…the coffee’s always on, and the welcome is out..we couldn’t do it without you!

Since the last report, we have continued our clean-up, thanks to our wonderful volunteers and are making progress. Dave Emmington was back and painted the Scale House as well as several of the farm equipment pieces on the flat car. There is still much to do, but every week another piece is tackled, and the projects are organized and materials ready. (S.S.)

TOURS STARTING

Tours are beginning to come to the Park after a long winter and school programs let by Karen Moodie are ensuring that our young visitors have a fun, learning experience – A very ingenious Brightbill House Game has been developed by Karen and Donna.

GARDEN RAILWAY EXPANDING

There is lots of work being done on the Garden Railway. Our volunteer, Les Duke, reports that 100’ is being added to the existing track.. Volunteers are needed to ensure our garden railway runs throughout the week and not just on the weekend. This way, all our visitors get the maximum experience. (S.S.)

SHANE YELLOWBIRD VIDEO SHOOTS AT HERITAGE PARK

An all day movie shoot occurred at the Heritage Park on Tuesday, May 6 as a country music video was filmed using the Heritage Park and its buildings and trains as the setting. The music video for Shayne Yellowbird (watch for this on CMT in a few weeks) was a great effort, and the WCRHP volunteers and staff pitched in on a long day as they always do.

The first crews and trucks arrived at the Heritage Park just after 0900, and set up got underway. Tomo’o and Dave were busy helping get all the set ups arranged as they found power and water connections, and readied the train for operation. The train for this consisted of FP7A 4069, Generator car 9622 and coaches Paul D Roy and Capilano. WCRA News, Page 19

Ready to go just after 1000, the first scenes were static shots alongside the Ohio Steam Crane and the parked train on the mainline (photo below, Don Evans)

Work then shifted to the next scenes, which used the Brightbill Heritage House where an actress arrived home on her bicycle, found a letter in the mailbox, then sat on the porch railing to read is. Note the clothesline added to help with the scene. (photo left)

After lunch, the train crew of

WCRA News, Page 20

John Jellis and Roy Crowston arrived, all dressed up for the part, and the train was brought to life. Helping with operations from the Fireman’s seat in the F was Andy Faris. The train made a series of arrivals and departures at the station (see photo on back cover) and then runs on our tracks out to the CN interchange, over to the MP Shops and back, and alongside the dyke where it overtook the young lady riding her bicycle. (photo below, conductor Roy Crowston gets his instructions from Assistant Director Greg, coach Paul D Roy behind)

Daylight train operations wrapped up around 2000, and final scenes were then shot in the dark at the station and a final scene using a “rain tower” and steam which created quite a sight (we’ll have to wait for the final copy!) The crews finally got away around 2330 after a long and busy day of filming.

Director Tara Hungerford and Production Company Rugged Media reported their delight at working with our volunteers and staff, and it was a fun day for all of us. Many got to be “extras” and will appear in some of the scenes, something which is always fun. The Heritage Park itself showed just how versatile our facility is for filming, something we hope to get more of in the future.

Thanks to the entire staff and our volunteer ‘extras’ for really helping out in just about every way imaginable. We really appreciate your hard work and enthusiasm. WCRA News, Page 21 HERITAGE PARK EVENTS

We have had some great opportunities to showcase the Park this month…to Transport Canada, who came through for an inspection of our facilities and operating rolling stock. Then the Squamish Fire Department, who followed the smell of smoke to our site to find our slightly too-large, but permitted, burn…they suggested not burning the whole tree at one time, just a few branches!

We hosted the WCRA Board of Directors on the site May 7. They got a close look at the big, grey work area that will be the turntable, Roundhouse and Conference Centre— and thanks to Ueli got to see the construction from a very different perspective.

The WCRA participated with an exhibit at the Sea to Sky Regional Heritage Fair, held at the North Vancouver History Centre in Lynn Valley on May 10. Don Evans staffed a display featuring the Heritage Park and the 374 Pavilion, with a slide show on the restoration of the Royal Hudson running continuously. There was good traffic during this event, organized by the North Vancouver Museum & Archives.

May 11th is our Mother’s Day Tea, with a tasty time in store for all. Thanks to Sally Berry for the carnations and to Donna Fourchalk and her lovely ladies who will help. We understand that Wallace will bring some “award winning” jam!

Wednesday May 14 will see the WCRA’s Honorary Patron, the Honourable Stephen Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, stop by for a brief visit. We are hosting the media earlier in the day to show our progress and share the vision of the site.

Sunday, June 15 will be our annual Father’s Day event at the Heritage Park—check our website www.wcra.org for information and details.

SUMMER STUDENTS START

It’s a pleasure to announce our summer students for 2008. This year we have Nicole Etherington who is working in the Guest Services area and who attends Cap College and is taking tourism program. In addition, we have Nicholas Bolkowy who is working with Rod in the Car Shop and is assigned specifically for the Alberta Project.

Both are already proving the be great additions to our Squamish team and we are so pleased they are on-board. (S.S.)

STEAMIN’ TO 150— JUNE 28, 2008

We have scheduled a major BC 150 celebration event for the Squamish community on June WCRA News, Page 22

28th at the Heritage Park. WCRA will invite and involve other community groups with entertainment, displays and provide a fun day for all of Squamish in celebrating this Province’s 150th anniversary by showcasing not only the Heritage Park, but rail in general as being key to the history of B.C.

Put this on your calendar…The Royal Hudson will be steamed up and it will be a fun day for everyone. There is free admission to this event all day. (S.S.)

HERITAGE PARK OPERATIONS REPORT

Realignment of Track at the Heritage Park We have started work towards realignment of track at Heritage Park’s north end that will allow the Royal Hudson to pull up to the station. First phase of replacing some ties and fixing switches was completed. Next phase will involve reducing corner radius and correcting dips in the track. Completion expected by mid June 2008.

Safety Mechanical employees have been holding monthly Safety Meetings and performing monthly Track Inspections. Monthly Shop/Yard Inspections are being started in May.

Quality Transport Canada conducted an audit in April. They had one finding that was addressed and responded to. They were happy with the new WCRA Passenger Car Inspection form and took a copy to show another railroad how they would like to see inspections done and documented.

Staffing We have started compiling a roster of specialists who can come in on an as and when required basis. This worked well with ex BCR Carman (and Air Brake Expert) Derek Stockley working on the Henry Pickering and ex BCR Electrician Mike Smith repairing wiring the Power Car. We have also arranged for a Mechanical Engineering student Nick Bulkowy to join us as a summer student and he will work with Randy Lucas on the business car Alberta project. (R.J.)

ROUNDHOUSE UPDATE

Work on the Roundhouse and Conference Centre at the Heritage Park continues, and one can now clearly see how the building will shape up. Another major step occurred on May 1, when the seven track slabs were poured (rear cover and page 23 photos by Don Evans). One can now stand in the building and see where the walls will go on all sides, and where the seven tracks will be. Next up is the erection of the steel which is scheduled for early June. WCRA News, Page 23 WCRA News, Page 24

The photos show how the shape of the Roundhouse is becoming evident as the work continues, and the size also is becoming apparent. It’s worth a visit to the Heritage Park just to see this work in progress.

ROUNDHOUSE WEBCAM OPERATIONAL

If you just can’t get to the Heritage Park in person to see the construction progress, well here is another way. Go to www.wcra.org and click on the link where it says you can watch the Roundhouse construction—that will bring up the webcam that has been installed on the second floor of the station. It has a panoramic view over the site. Thanks to Tomo’o Oshikawa and our webmaster Greg Chadwick for getting this set up.

FEATURE ARTICLES

FROM WCRA NEWS 30 YEARS AGO—MAY 1980 - by Craig McDowall Amtrak

Interesting to note that there has been no local advertising in the local media to advise people of the new more convenient departure time of 07:00 hours to connect with the Coast Starlight in Seattle. Although Amfleet equipment is expected, the Pacific International is still running with Superliner equipment. Update: as soon as this item was inserted into the newsletter, lo and behold, an ad appeared in the two local papers.

In a major organizational move, AMTRAK has created and assigned Passenger Service Managers to 13 key terminals across their system. The new positions are responsible for all on board and station services in their areas. Seattle in on this list.

B.C. Rail (May 1980) The great detour of CN traffic over the BCR during CN’s 2nd Narrows Bridge outage have been tallied. BCR handled 178 southbound trains and 184 northbound trains.

The order for 10 new SD40-2 locomotives from General Motors Diesel has now been supplemented with an order for two more. Delivery of the 12 units late this fall will end the all Alco (MLW) roster.

Canadian Pacific (May 1980) CP Rail has opened its new Mayfair Terminal for trailers and containers. The terminal is located in the new Mayfair Industrial Park in Coquitlam. The terminal is expected to handle WCRA News, Page 25

15,000 containers and 20,000 trailers (piggybacks) till year end.

CP seems to have got their boat in the water for the Vancouver-Nanaimo ferry service. The

Princess of Vancouver was in dry dock for check over and to repair a couple of gashes in her hull which were patched up. She will resume her schedule of three sailings per day from each side for passengers, autos and freight. Operation is scheduled for the summer months only. But fares will be increased dramatically . . $42 return for car and driver!!!

Coquitlam transfers have had some interesting consists than the usual two SD40-2’s and 60 cars. A consist in early May had the usual two units but 125 cars. When the train was staged, the caboose was down past the West Coast Air Terminal. Later that week, the transfer was powered by four GP 9’s.

The last two Baldwin switchers assigned to Vancouver have been stored ‘dead’ with their stacks capped at Drake St. since mid April. DS 4-4-1000 #7072 & #7067 are two of the last three Baldwins on the roster. #7072 was last operated as the Drake Street roundhouse switcher. The only other unit, #7070, is on Vancouver Island . . not known if still operational or not.

Sperry Rail Services Car #119 gave the E & N line a going over in March. Major work will be performed on the line, including two bridge projects in the Victoria area, 30,000 feet of new 100 lb. rail to replace the existing 85 lb. rail on curves, 45,000 tons of new ballast and 40,000 new ties.

The original Calgary & Edmonton railway station, built in 1891, (not the present brick structure currently used by VIA) is to be refurbished at its present location. The station was sold in 1898, relocate and used as a private residence for 70 years. The main floor will be restored to its original condition and the second floor will serve as offices for the Junior League of Edmonton.

Royal Hudson (May 1980) #2860 and her consist along with #3716 were transferred from Drake Street to North Van on May 15th. Also on the move were the ex American Freedom train coaches stored at Drake Street. Both locos were steamed but towed by CP units. S-2 #7093 was on the point from Drake Street to the waterfront where a pair of SD 40-2’s were used. At Fraser Mills, three CN SD 40’s replaced the CP units for the move over the 2nd Narrows to the BCR interchange. The Royal Hudson will run five days a week starting in mid May and increase to six days a week in July to September.

#3716 will star in some movies to be shot on the BCR this summer. For these starring roles, 3716 has been repainted and lettered Canadian Pacific with the BCR letterboard removed from her pilot. WCRA News, Page 26

VIA Rail—(May 1980)

Via will raise fares by 5% on June 1st. Club and sleeping car charges will also rise by the same amount. But what is significant is that those charges will rise another 20% from June to September during the peak summer travel season.

While AMTRAK is working to speed up passenger schedules, VIA has requested CTC to lengthen a transcontinental trip by seven hours. The CTC agreed but stated it wanted to see more convenient arrival and departure times and more daylight service on their schedules through the Rockies.

BN—(May 1980)

The BN has recommenced irregular steam operations near Kelso, Wa.!! No folks, it’s not a steam locomotive but the top of Mt. St. Helen’s of which BN owns the top part of the mountain as it was a portion of the old NP land grant. The old volcano has been observed with some frequent “Steam Days” recently.

The last run of an Alco diesel on the BN occurred in early April. BN #4256 (ex SPS #316) arrived in Portland for storage. The entire Alco fleet is up for sale.

NW-5’s are gone. The pair of NW-5 switchers that have been operating in New West have disappeared replaced by a pair of standard EMD 1200 hp switchers. Only 13 NW-5’s were built by EMD for the Great Northern in 1946.

Vancouver and Florida now have a direct freight one line rail link with BN buying the Frisco Lines railroad.

Misc. Items—(May 1980)

The G.E. 65 ton diesel that came to town recently has been sent to work at the MacMillan Bloedel plant in Powell River.

Toronto Rail 1980 could be the end of the line for 6060. The National Convention of the NRHS will be held July 23-27 and will include likely the last runs of 6060 in the east. The excursion will run to Niagara Falls from Toronto and will be called the . Two days later, 6060 will double head with a FPA-4 diesel on a trip north to Washago. Later in the year, the locomotive will be presented to Edmonton’s Alberta Pioneer Railway Assoc. in August for retirement.

The Alaska government will loan the troubled WP & Y railroad $5 million for upgrade work on its line between Skagway and Whitehorse. The line is currently losing $2 million a year. WCRA News, Page 27

ONTARIO ADVENTURE - by Terry Dougan

What a concept—a hotel in a train station! Sure, there are several, Glasgow Central comes to mind, but a hotel in a train station in a small Canadian town – population 5,700?

Last September saw me on Northland’s Northlander train, en route from Toronto to Cochrane, Ontario. This train utilizes former single level GO Transit cars with upgraded seats for long distance travel. On this day, the train consist was three coaches and one food service car (with take out counter and tables), pulled by ON Rail GP38 #1806 and a former F7B for a power car.

The hotel that I had booked for the night was The Station Inn at Cochrane. Upon arrival at Cochrane, I got off the train and walked into the waiting room. On the left was the ticket counter, and on the right was the hotel reception desk. I checked in and went up to the second floor, and was in my room within 10 minutes of steeping off the train! The 23 hotel rooms take up the second floor of the station, with a small lounge in the centre.

The hotel was incorporated into the station in 1991. Some of the rooms are a bit on the small side, but quite satisfactory for a night or two. Rooms either face the street or look out over the station platform and towards the yards in the distance.

WCRA News, Page 28

A good restaurant is located on the main floor and can be accessed directly from the second floor without going outside. It opens early in the morning so that breakfast can be enjoyed before the departure of the morning trains. It also seemed quite popular with the locals.

The railway station hotel is able to work in this town as Cochrane sees the arrival of two trains in the evening, one from Toronto and one from Moosonee. The trains then depart the next morning for both these destinations. The station is also the departure and arrival point for Ontario Northland bus services.

If you ever find yourself in Cochrane, it’s worth a try.

RAILWAY NEWS

AMTRAK CASCADES CHANGES FOR VANCOUVER SERVICE

The new Amtrak timetable effective May 12, 2008 has made a change to the departure time for train 517, which now departs Vancouver for Seattle 15 minutes earlier at 1745. Train 510 northbound in the morning is unchanged. The Bellingham—Seattle trains 513 / 517 remain unchanged, except for a notation that these trains will be extended to Vancouver, BC in the coming months. Great news! (J.M.)

MOTIVE POWER CONSISTS OF INTEREST

Observed in New Westminster April 18 heading a long train from Richmond to Thornton was a motive power consist of BCOL 762 / BCOL 746 / BCOL 4621 and Neptune Terminals slug 807…..Eastbound by Hampton on May 6 was CN train 35451 with CN 2308 / BCOL 766 / WC 2004 (J.M.)…….Train 30251 departed Thornton on May 2 with CN 8810 / 5521 and three units from Central Oregon & Pacific, HLCX 6522 (nee D&RGW 5334), HLCX 6091 (nee CN 5208) and HLCX 6061 (nee Conrail 6318)- the three are headed for headed for Cape Breton & Central in Nova Scotia. (K.P.),…...Train 40241 was eastbound with units from the bound for Paducah, KY ships—behind CN 2252 / 2276 were LLPX 219, LLPX 218 and GMTX 2643. (J.M.)

Observed recently in the Thornton Yard area were Norfolk Southern 2715 on March 11, Canadian Pacific Olympic unit 8874 and consist of CP 9777 / 8888 on March 13, CSX 4758 / WCRA News, Page 29

4792 on March 14, Norfolk Southern 9608 on March 15, CN / GTW 5948 (grey with yellow stripes) on March 18, Illinois Central 6009 on March 25, Illinois Central 1035 on March 25 as well as CSX 7703, Illinois Central 6030 on March 26, CP Olympic 8872 on April 13, CN/ GTW 5957, Illinois Central 1002 and CN/GTW 5954 on April 14, CP Olympic 8865 and

Illinois Central 1022 on April 17, EMD 9044 and 9092 on April 18, and BNSF into Thornton Apr 24 with UP 7757 / ex ATSFD 659 and the three HLCX units mentioned earlier. (R.C.)

RETIREMENTS

The following locomotive retirements have occurred: BCOL RS18CATm 630 on March 18; DM&IR SD18u 303 on March 31; SAR B36-7 3604 on April 11; DM&IR SD38 200 on April 15; CN SD40-2 5391 on April 16; CN SD50F 5426 on April 16.

SAR B36-7 3604, which was recently retired, has been sent to Woodcrest Shop in Illinois for storage and was the very last BCOL B36-7 on the roster. It is former ATSF B36-7 7487 and BC RAIL 3604. (TJ)

EDMONTON LRV’S EN ROUTE

New Light Rail Vehicles for Edmonton Transit are on the way, thirty-seven are being added to the fleet, to be numbered 1038 to 1074. CN train M30051 left Thornton on May 3 with SP flatcar 520649 in the consists, carrying the first new LRV, #1038. (J.M.)

F UNIT UPDATE

Stored CPR FP9Au 1401 has been reinstated at the Alyth Diesel Shop as the Steam Shop switcher for the “” passenger cars within Calgary terminal. Apparently the crew who need to assemble these consists were in bad need of switching power, but could not obtain a Geep because of CP’s power shortage. As 1401 was stored-serviceable, is in good condition and will not be taxed with the load or frequency of service involved, she was an ideal solution. The other CP FP9Au 1400 (which has been stored unserviceable for a while), will now also be turned over to the “RCP” and be used as a parts source for 1401. It has already has given up one of its couplers to replace a tight lock coupler damaged on 1401.

CP “script-liveried” FP9Au’s 4106 and 4107 are now back in Calgary after their warranted repainting at NRE in Capreol. (TJ) WCRA News, Page 30

BC 150 SPIRIT TRAIN

Canadian Pacific’s BC 150 Tour train headed by Hudson #2816 will visit several Lower mainland communities at the end of June…..scheduled are June 26 Mission / Abbotsford, June

27 Maple Ridge / Pitt Meadows, June 29 Port Moody, June 30 Langley, July 1 Surrey, July 4 New Westminster, and July 5 / 6 Vancouver (Tour ends).

DOUBLE TRACKING CONTINUES

Double tracking east of Savona has gotten underway—the roadbed (which has been there for some time) now has new concrete ties spread along it. (M.M.)

SPIRIT TRAINS TO CELEBTRATE THE 2010 OLYMPICS

Canadian Pacific has announced that it will operate a series of “Spirit Trains” across Canada to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. The first train will operate in September 2008 on the following schedule, followed by an expanded train in 2009 and then participation in the Torch Relay in 2010. The 2008 train will travel as follows:

Canadian Pacific Spirit Train 2008 Dates & Locations: • September 21 Vancouver, BC • September 27 Calgary, AB • September 29 Edmonton, AB • October 2 Saskatoon, SK • October 4 Winnipeg, MB • October 8 Thunder Bay, ON • October 11 Sudbury, ON • October 13 Toronto, ON • October 16 Smith Falls, ON • October 18 Montreal, QC

The Spirit Train includes an elaborate Olympic-themed Spirit Train Village which will include family-friendly booths, Olympic sport simulation activities, pin trading, video message centers, unique entertainment and engaging interactions with other participating Olympic partners such as Rona. Also featured will be Olympic athletes, and a concert by Colin James at each location where the train stops.

Further details about the Canadian Pacific Spirit Train, including lists of local and First Nations performers and the latest Olympic partners to join the Spirit Train experience, will be posted in time on www.cpspirittrain.com, a new interactive website also launched. (D.K.)

WCRA News, Page 31

WHISTLER MOUNTAINNEER KICKS OFF WITH SPECIAL APRIL 20 TRIP

The Whistler Mountaineer started its 2008 season with a private charter trip in Sunday, April 20 for Les Clefs d’Or Pan American Congress. The trip departed earlier than usual at 0800 hours and returned later, departing Whistler at 1700 and arriving to North Vancouver at around 2000 hours. The regular season started off on Wednesday, April 23 with the usual 0830 departure from North Vancouver and a 1430 departure from Whistler.

Consist of the Whistler Mountaineer is the same as last year—GP40-2’s 8019 / 8018, power car 9488, coach (for crew) 5715, Glacier Domes 2001 / 2002, open car WCXX 598 Henry Pickering, and Coast Classic coaches 5487, 5532, and 5718.

BC RESIDENTS SPECIAL

The popular BC Residents Special pricing is back this year on the Whistler Mountaineer, but booking must be made by May 31, 2008 to get these prices. Specials are $125 round trip Coast Classic, $175 round trip when one way is Coast Classic and one way Glacier Dome, and $225 for round trip Glacier Dome. Call 1-888-687-7245 for bookings.

NITA LAKE TRAIN STATION OPENS AT WHISTLER

The new Whistler train station is open at the Nita Lake Lodge, and services the Whistler WCRA News, Page 32

Mountaineer train as well as the Fraser-Discovery Rocky Mountaineer. The station uses the same platform as the old station, guests now walk north and cross a bridge at the platform end to access the station area on the south end of the lodge. (Photo page 31, Don Evans) The elaborate bridge across the tracks has nothing to do with the station, but carries a new segment of the Valley Trail across the tracks and connects into the existing trail for walkers and cyclists.

Photo below shows the front of the station portion of the new Lodge, the crossing signal stands guard at the parking area entry.

CONTAINER PLANS FOR SRY?

If Southern Railway of BC has its way, a new local rail container service will reduce some of the container truck traffic on the local roads, easing congestion and reducing pollution. Speaking to the Surrey Board of Trade, SRY President Frank Butzelaar outlined a vision of a container—rail reload up the Fraser Valley, and trains from there to the Delta Port. This would take many trucks off the congested route through the Fraser Valley to the Delta Port. He says there is already enough business to carry 100 containers a day five days a week. This would take around 26,000 truck trips off the highway annually and benefit the environment as the train is 34 times more fuel efficient in this scenario. WCRA News, Page 33

OTHER NEWS

LONG COMMUTER TRAINS

In early April, GO Transit in greater Toronto, Ontario started running 12-car sets on the most overcrowded Milton Line trains (which run on the Canadian Pacific Galt Sub between Toronto and Milton, Ontario to the west), powered by the new MP40PH-3C's. They are touting them as the "longest commuter trains in North America." (M.C.M.)

WEST COAST EXPRESS EXTRA FOR SUN RUN operated an extra train on Sunday, April 20 for the Sun Run. Departure from Mission was at 0700 with arrival at Vancouver at 0815, departure back from Vancouver was 1300 with arrival at Mission at 1415. Passengers were offered bottled water courtesy Crystal Clear water.

BIG BUS LOOP COMING TO CAMBIE AND MARINE IN VANCOUVER

At Cambie and Marine Drive in Vancouver, before the Canada Line work started, there used to be an ICBC Claims building on the southeast corner...I wondered why they moved them out and then tore the building down, I mean I knew that the train was going down Cambie, but the ICBC building was far enough back - and out of the way…?

Well now I know why; that corner will become a big bus loop to connect with the Canada Line. The following bus routes will terminate / start there: 3 Main, 15 Cambie, 17 Oak, 10 Granville and the 100 Airport

Trolley poles will go up from the new Vancouver Transit Centre (by the Laing / Airport Bridge) along Marine to Victoria Drive (this work is actually going on now as many new concrete pole bases have recently been poured - the poles should start going up soon) Does this mean the end of the Marpole Loop (under the north-end of the Airport bridge)? My guess is probably not, at least not for a long while.

The way the construction is moving along on the Canada Line, I now understand that the trains will start running about 3-months ahead of the planned November 2009 opening (August or early September). (J.V.)

ANOTHER TRAIN FOR PRINCE RUPERT?

Word is that the Port of Prince Rupert continues to work to get a train for their growing cruise ship business, and that the organization of such is well underway. This plan will see the train runs from Prince Rupert to Kasiks siding, passengers would bus one way and train the other. It may be a couple of years yet. (D.W.) WCRA News, Page 34

Amtrak departs Tampa, Florida on April 13, 2008 on its way to New York City. A pair of GE “Genesis” units leads a consist of baggage car, three “Viewliner” sleepers, diner, café car and three coaches. Your editor was in Tampa in April for the ARM Spring Conference.

UNION PACIFIC COAL TRAINS TO ROBERTS BANK

The first of seven Union Pacific coal trains arrived at Roberts Bank port in Delta shortly after midnight April 29th. On the point were Union Pacific 7205 and Southern Pacific 6181 with distributed power units UP 5761 and SP 6378.

KINSOL TRESTLE UPDATE

Persistence often pays off, and such is the case in the preservation of the Kinsol Trestle on Vancouver Island. A total of $4.1 million has now been set aside, the latest portion coming from the Trans Canada Trail. Just another $1.5 million is needed to save the 1920 built wooden trestle, which is 44 metres high and 187 metres long, and curves across the Koksilah River near Duncan, part of CN’s Vancouver Island line until 1979 when the last train crossed. (C.S.)

ON THE BACK COVER

Top—WCRA’s Canadian Pacific FP7A #4069 leads the train as it pulls towards the station during the filming of the Shane Yellowbird country music video. Shane (with the guitar) waits to board along with other passengers.

Below—The Roundhouse continues to take shape in this May 5, 2008 shot from the second floor of our Mac Norris Station. Clearly visible are the newly poured seven rack slabs.

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X

Vol. 47 Issue 6 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors: J.B. Jim Brown R.D.C. Ryan Cruickshank J.D. Jeremy Davy B.J. Bill Johnston R.J. Rod Jenkins D.K. Dave Killeen M.M. Mike Mastin M.C.M. Craig McDowall J.M. Jim McPherson K.P. Ken Perry C.S. Colin Smith S.S. Susan Steen D.Sh. David Shore J.V. Jeff Veniot D.W. David Walker

TJ Tempo Jr.

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TRIVIA ANSWER

Chicago, Burlington & Quincy’s 40 stall 264 degree roundhouse in Aurora, Illinois was built in 1855 with walls of locally quarried limestone. A runner us is the Martinsburg, West Virginia roundhouse for the Baltimore & Ohio built by engineer Albert Fink, using a cast iron frame construction. Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 47 Issue 6

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