Number of Images on this Page = 22
Bicentennial Triple Parallel Run with 3801, D3-639, K184, R761
As part of Australia's bicentennial celebrations, several
steam events were held throughout Australia in 1988.
The
classic
event was the parallel running on three adjacent tracks of four
steam locomotives: 3801, D3-639, K184 and R761. The three trains
ran from Melbourne to Seymour and return, although the R class did
not actually make it back on the day! (Of which more later.)
The 38 was on the standard gauge line that runs from
Melbourne to Sydney, the D3 and K were coupled and on the up broad
gauge line that runs from Albury to Melbourne, and the R was on
the down broad gauge
ibid
. Needless to say, with 3 trains
involved, and over 1000 rail fans, the trains took some
organizing. Special safeworking arrangements were in place to
allow the event, and regular trains were rescheduled around the
event.
R761 disgraced herself by derailing at Seymour, which caused
an added excitement to the day. Recorded here are numerous
photographs of the day.