VICDOC Winter 2022 - Magazine - Page 74
MORE THAN MED
CHARM
AB UNDS
—
On 27th of April 2022
a diverse group of retired
Doctors gathered at
Southern Cross Station
to take the Regional V line
Train to Castlemaine.
REPORT CATHY AND MICHAEL MORAN
A
waiting them at Castlemaine, was a train with all the
characteristic huff and puff of a bygone era. The historic
steam train has been magnificently restored by the volunteers
of the Victorian Goldfields Railway.
The charming and well informed guides explained the significance
of the line and the carriages, which have had long varied careers.
Our carriage in particular, had been used on the Chicago to New
York line, then bought by an over enthusiastic public servant to join
the Adelaide - Melbourne line. However, it was soon discovered that
the extremely heavy Pullman carriage was almost impossible to pull up
through the Adelaide Hills. It was decommissioned, and came into the
hands of the dedicated volunteers at Castlemaine and refurbished in an
Art Deco style.
A brief stop was welcome at the tiny siding of Muckleford for those
male passengers who had not yet had their TURP!
On arrival at Maldon we could observe much activity tending and
turning the engine in preparation for the return.
A leisurely stroll along the Beehive Mine diggings trail brought us to
the well preserved mid-19th century town, which has been designated
“Australia’s first notable town”, where we had lunch at the Pub.
There was time to wander up and down the quaint streets, before
heading to the pretty and restored Maldon Station to choof and whistle
our way back to Castlemaine.
Our AMA co-ordinators who accompanied us, Frances and Amanda
ensured everything went smoothly, and everyone was looked after.
A highly recommended day out. Thank you Frances and Amanda.
With some fantastic events on over winter including the “Ales on
Rails 2022” day, you are encouraged to experience the charm of the
Victorian Goldfields Railway for yourself !
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AMA VI C TO RIA