ADVERTISING FEATURE
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The ‘Tin Hare’ heritage train is returning to Gloucester’s Chill Out festival once again.
Previously a huge hit with visitors both young and old, be quick to book your tickets with the Visitor Information Centre (phone: 6538 5252) as they will sell quickly.
NSW Government Railways introduced the rail motors in 1923, to provide a feeder service on country branch lines.
As train-spotters and train-lovers will tell you, a great train ride is the combination of the scenery outside, the experience inside the cabin and the people you meet on the journey.
“There is so much that makes the trip memorable,” said festival spokesperson, Mel Williams.
“Why don’t you rediscover real train travel at this year’s Chill Out festival, where the journey itself is an adventure.”
Tickets cost $15 for adults, $7 for children or $40 for a family ticket; children under 3 years free (no seat).
Tickets are available at the Visitor Information Centre; go to the chamber website for a timetable and more information – www.gloucesterchamber.com.au.
More about ‘Tin Hares’
Rail motors or ‘Tin Hares’ were so-called as they evolved at the same time as the mechanical lures used in greyhound racing.
Considerable care was taken in the original selection of materials used in the construction of these lightweight, well-built vehicles.
The normal seating capacity was 45, with room for 21 passengers in 1st class and 24 in 2nd class. A further seven could be accommodated on the flap seats provided in the guard's compartment, or in the prized seats either side of the driver.
During their lifetime, seating arrangements were modified to suit the work being undertaken, with seats often removed to increase luggage capacity.
A total of 37 vehicles were built and they operated many branch line services, from Kyogle in the north, to the Riverina in the south, as well as extensively through the Central West regions, until their widespread withdrawal in 1983.
Festival at a glance
- What: Chill Out festival
- Where: Gloucester, NSW
- When: 23 July from 9am
- Why: The annual Chill Out festival brings the township of Gloucester alive for a great mid-winter day out. Come and celebrate the vibrant and friendly community of Gloucester, NSW.
More information: Go to the chamber website: www.gloucesterchamber.com.au.
This advertising feature is sponsored by the following businesses. Click on the links to learn more:
- Gloucester Leading Appliances
- Leisuretime
- McRaes Fashions
- helloworld Gloucester
- The Fox Den cafe
- Avon Valley Inn
- Yates & Twomey
- Hebby's Bakery
- Gloucester Town & Country Store
- dd’s Little Lolly Shop
- Avon Valley Inn