Sixteen years ago locomotive enthusiast Bernie Baker had an idea.
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The train driver of 34 years wanted to bring together the oldest and most colourful Streamliners from Australia and this long weekend Mr Baker will make his dream come true and organise the first-ever Streamliners event in Goulburn.
Attendees will include National Geographic (UK), international, national and local enthusiasts with a passion for locomotive colours, models and history in Australia.
Setting eyes on his first Streamliner at age 12, he will never forget the blue and gold Victorian B60 he rode in with his father in 1975. Mr Baker says that the 65th anniversary is extremely important for the community to participate and hold onto.
“They’re a dying breed. We need to get them together before it becomes a thing of the past,” Mr Baker said. “This is kind of like a family reunion for me.”
Events will include rides from Sydney to Goulburn, a Tarago shuttle and a Monaro Express. People will also be able to join the Bungendore Dinner Trip, which will include a night out and tour of great eateries. Most of the trips will depart from Goulburn and have multiple departure times throughout the day.
There will also be all-day sausage sizzles, a live band, a souvenir department, a laser light and fog show and a narration of each locomotive on display.
“As in many countries, the Australia’s rail Industry is forever evolving, especially in terms of fuel efficient and diesel transportation,” he said.
Twenty Streamliners from NSW, South Australia and Victoria will be on display including the grandfather of locomotives, the 65-year-old GM1.
“Streamliners will be an event for all the senses,” he said. “Feel the wind in your hair as you jump on a passenger train shuttle, listen to the engine roar and see these well loved Streamliners restored in all their glory.”
Events will run October 1-3 in Goulburn.
To buy tickets or find more information head to Streamliner 2016 online or call Bernie Baker on 0417 405 752.