Coalfields Steam 2015 at Richmond Vale
Richmond Vale railway Museum's open day for the centenary of Steel. Families enjoying a ride on the Live Steamer. Photo by PHIL HEARNE
Richmond Vale railway Museum's open day for the centenary of Steel. Libby Cotter, 17, from Branxton is a trainee steam train fireman and drives the trains at Richmond Vale seen here with drivers Steve Kaiser and Dave Rollins. Photo by PHIL HEARNE
Richmond Vale railway Museum's open day for the centenary of Steel. Lining up as train pulls into station. Photo by PHIL HEARNE
Richmond Vale railway Museum's open day for the centenary of Steel. Libby Cotter, 17, from Branxton is a trainee steam train fireman and drives the trains at Richmond Vale. Photo by PHIL HEARNE
Richmond Vale railway Museum's open day for the centenary of Steel. Libby Cotter, 17, from Branxton is a trainee steam train fireman and drives the trains at Richmond Vale. Photo by PHIL HEARNE
MARJORIE the steam engine came out of retirement this weekend to delight hundreds of visitors at Richmond Vale Railway and Mining museum.
As part of the annual Coalfields Steam show, which runs until Monday, punters got to ride behind the 1936-era saddle engine in a retro timber-walled carriage, or stand on the verandah of the guard’s van. The theme of this year’s event was the centenary of steel making, with a focus on the transportation of steelmakers and the tools they used.
In her day Marjorie shunted molten steel at both BHP and Lysaght steel works in the Hunter.
Former engine BHP 32, which is the only locomotive of its type in existence, was also on display.
A Cadillac car that was converted into a rail carriage and used to inspect mines along the rail tracks was on show for the first time since being restored.
Miniature steam engines displays and rides, and other mine related artefacts are also part of the exhibition. Coalfields Steam is open between 10am to 4pm. It costs $16/$11/$7.50. Children under five are free.