MEDIA RELEASE - 25 May 2006 - PDF version

A new future for locomotive 3801
- a NSW icon of steam

NSW's iconic steam locomotive 3801 is returning home to be based at Thirlmere's NSW Rail Transport Museum (NSWRTM) in November 2006.

NSWRTM President Peter Berriman said "The NSWRTM, as NSW's principal rail heritage custodian, and primary custodian of 3801, has the capacity and capability to provide the best options for 3801's future".

The current lease from State Rail and the NSWRTM providing custody of the locomotive to 3801 Limited concludes in November 2006. Ample notice has been provided - 3801 Limited was advised of the NSWRTM's decision in July 2005.

Showcasing NSW rail heritage for the community

3801 has a special place in the NSW rail story - the NSWRTM saved 3801 for the community in the 1960s and intends that the locomotive is publicly accessible to the maximum extent possible:

u		The NSWRTM will judiciously operate 3801, while ever operation is viable, for the benefit and enjoyment of the community.
u		Public access to 3801 will be improved between operations - a special visitor facility is planned at the Thirlmere Railway Museum which will showcase the locomotive and its story.
u		The NSWRTM will shortly announce a high level Taskforce which will report by November 2006 on options for 3801's future funding, overhaul, operation and management. The Taskforce will also consider the impending need for major boiler work to keep the locomotive operational.

Our steam heritage - promoting regional tourism

3801's existing depot is slated for closure as part of Sydney's Eveleigh redevelopment - the locomotive needs a new home. Steam trains (including 3801) have operated from NSWRTM's Thirlmere site for over 30 years. Supported by a strong volunteer and membership base, the largely self funded, not-for-profit Museum has NSW's largest operating rail heritage fleet. NSWRTM's state-wide heritage train operations provide a living museum experience for thousands of travellers and spectators, support urban and regional community events and promote tourism within NSW.

A new future for 3801

NSWRTM is focussed on the future of NSW's rail heritage - with a clear vision and strategic plan. "The previous arrangement for 3801 was seen as a solution for its time; we now need a forward looking solution for our times. Conclusion of the lease for 3801 provides a unique opportunity to secure a more sustainable long term future for 3801 - and for NSW's rail heritage", Mr Berriman said.

Media enquiries:

Peter Berriman
President
NSW Rail Transport Museum

NSW Rail Transport Museum heritage train operations:   www.heritageexpress.com.au