SMR - RVR Railways SIG

2090-04-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

This website and forums are for those interested in the South Maitland and Richmond Vale Railways, their past and current operations. It is also for those with an interest in other long closed lower Hunter coal lines.

UPDATED - November 2nd, 2011

EMAIL - PRHS. Society @ gmail . com (Remove Spaces)

SMR10 in steam at East Greta Junction - Photo: Stephen Carr

Contributions are urgently needed.

Please contact us if you can help.

Maps - Diagrams - Photographs - Information - News

Neath Station 2009 - Brad Peadon

Please come and join us on our Hunter Diamonds Yahoogroup to talk about all things related to the Hunter coal railways, past and present. Come meet others with a similar interest. Or seach for 'South Maitland and Richmond Vale Railway Website' on Facebook.

If the South Maitland Railways are not just a bunch of coal lines but a passion.

Then you have found the website and forums for you.
Welcome Aboard!

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2011-11-01T23:07:00.000-07:00

Stockrington Collieries

Swamp Rail Last Steam

STOCKRINGTON #2

2011-09-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

The following details were kindly contributed by Peter Neve.

Yes, it was a tour - one week before the end of steam on the Singleton passenger service. The date was 18/07/1971 and the location was Cessnock station.

What makes it of particular interest and unique was that it was the operation of a tender-type locomotive on a passenger train on the branch. It was the lack of a turntable at Cessnock that "prevented" the use of tender locomotives during the period when the NSWGR operated the passenger services over the line. In fact, when the through-running "Cessnock Express" was introduced, the train's loaded weight was slightly over the allowable for the normal 30 class tank engine, so several were modified to operate at 15-lbs psi boiler pressure higher than standard, in order to haul the excess tonnage. This was later found to be a theoretical requirement, as the 30 class were able to handle the heavier theoretical load without problem. Particularly as the theoretical load would have had every seat occupied when the train traversed the ruling grade, and this would certainly not have been the case! If, however, an additional carriage was being conveyed through to Cessnock (instead of being detached with the change of locomotives in the down direction at Waratah), then a 32 class (fitted with a six-wheel tender) would be used. But this meant that the 32 class had to run tender-first light engine back from Cessnock to Maitland, to turn on the 50-ft turntable, then light engine tender-first again back to Cessnock, prior to stabling overnight for the following morning's return passenger working.

Yes, there were periods when tender locomotives operated coal trains over the branch; once back in the 1950s (I think) when floods closed the regular route through Maitland and NSWGR 50 class worked over the Richmond Vale Railway to Weston and the SMR. During a later period, RVR 2-8-0s filled in for 10 class for a while. I don't have photos of either, but I trust that Brian Andrews will find some for his book on the line.

Prior to the big Carriage Shed fire, SMR-hauled passenger trains operated into (West) Maitland station - hence the additional platforms there. The Operating Agreement was not terminated when the NSWGR took over after the fire ... and this also came in handy when SMR introduced its own railcars in, from memory, 1961. It was on the rare occasion of an enthusiasts tour that SMR steam worked into Maitland station in the latter years, such as for an ARHS tour to Weston on 10/08/1968 when I caught SMR.31 being passed by a diesel-hauled goods train.

Enjoy!

Cheers.

Pete.

2011-08-17T21:23:00.000-07:00

~~ HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY SMR10 ~~

On August 5th 2011 a special steam hauled tour from East Greta Junction to Neath was organised. It was the first time the 10 class have returned to the SMR in many years and the popularity of the event was plainly seen.

Tour patrons had lunch in the famous Neath Hotel, before reboarding for the trip home again.

Below is a selection of photographs taken on the day.

An evening celebration by SMR fans was held at the Neath Hotel after then event.

2011-08-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

~~ EAST GRETA JUNCTION ~~

Steam Era

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2011-01-16T18:01:00.000-08:00

~~ HEXHAM EXCHANGE SIDINGS ~~

Photo: Chris Nelson

2011-01-16T17:40:00.001-08:00

~~ RVR PASSENGER STOCK ~~

Album

2011-01-10T23:01:00.000-08:00

Formation looking towards Millfield from the junction.

Actual junction of Cessnock #1 line (left) and line to Millfield.

Branch into Cessnock #1, looking towards colliery from just beyond end of loop.

Location of colliery branch loop, looking back towards junction.

Bridge on line to Millfieldn 2011.

Remains of former Kalingo junction box and associated signalling 2011.

2011-01-10T20:58:00.000-08:00

Above two photographs show the remains of Kurri Road station as of the 1st January 2011.

2011-01-09T23:44:00.000-08:00

Three photographs above show last cutting before Lake Road. The first is looking toward Elrington, with the following two back towards Weston.

Facing towards Weston, the former right of way rises from the former bridge under Lake Road and joins the fire trail.

Have long been planning to look for the remains of the former bridge that caried Lake Road over the Elrington line. John Shoebridge's article in 'Light Railways' helping to locate the exact location.

Despite the article, it took three of us 15 minutes for find the remains that are to be seen (two photographs above).

2011-01-07T22:16:00.001-08:00

~~ RICHMOND VALE JUNCTION ~~

and Wallis Creek Bridge.

Steven Miller seems rather happy to have found the Wallis Creek bridge. January 2011

2011-01-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

Mount Dee Photographs and Information Required.

2011-01-03T22:56:00.000-08:00

HUNTER DIAMONDS

Chat forum devoted solely to the coal railways of the Hunter Valley, past and present.

Coal industry news where it affect rail operations.

LOCOSHED

General discussion about all railways in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

Regular content on Hunter coal railways and industrial operations.

LOCOSHED PHOTOGRAPHY

Share and discuss photographs about railways around Australia.

LRRSA

Light Railway Research Society of Australia

South Maitland and Richmond Vale Railways

Facebook

A Facebook site covering the closed colliery lines of the Hunter Valley.

2011-01-03T22:47:00.001-08:00

¬¬ MAPS ¬¬

2011-01-03T22:43:00.001-08:00

Whats New?

2-11-2011 : Stockrington open, news report. Thanks to Tony Meredith and Brad Curran.

27-9-2011 : Photos of 1971 tour to Cessnock added.

27-8-2011 : John Shield contributes four photos of Kalingo Junction and P127 on the branch in 1967.

17-8-2011 : SMR10's Special birthday celebrations.

10-8-2011 : New 'East Greta Junction (Steam Era)' page.

17-1-2011 : New RVR rollingstock section commenced. Numerous photographs from Chris Nelson added to the site.

11-1-2011 : Kalingo Junction and Kurri Road sections opened and recent photographs added. Upgrade continued and news section added to.

5-1-2011 : Upgrades continue, one photo and numerous historical links added. Mount Dee section opened. Historic Maitland Main photo added.

4-1-2011 : Minmi Junction and Back Creek Junction opened.

3-1-2011 : Orangegrove section opened.

27-12-2010 : Trial of new look to the website started on Neath page.

15-12-2010 : New layout for SMR sections. Locations rather than stations.

12-12-2010 : Caledonia page opened.

2011-01-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

Back Creek Junction and Brown's Colliery Photographs and Information Needed.

Wikipedia - Hexham To Minmi Railway
Amending Act To The Hexham To Minmi Railway Act

Swampland

A selection of photos taken on December 31st 2010.

Remains of a bridge located just north of Back Creek junction.

Back Creek Junction with Brown's Colliery to the left and the mainline to Minmi bearing off to the right.

Around curve of Minmi line, just south of junction.

Looking south towards the former Woodford Road crossing.

Duckenfield Junction was not far beyond the crossing.

Formation towards Hexham taken from near the former Woodford Street crossing.

2011-01-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

Minmi Junction photographs and information always required.

A selection of photographs from a visit on December 31st 2010.

Junction looking towards Minmi and Richmond Main.

Towards Hexham

Crossover.

Junction again.

Unidentified pile of broken up concrete with prickly pear.

Hoskins steel on Stockrington up line.

Small bridge that has seen better days.

Area of refuse dump, also believed to be used as a emergency stockpile during WW1.

A long removed triangle also connects the Minmi and Richmond Vale Railways along the line of grass at middle right.

2011-01-02T20:38:00.000-08:00

ORANGEGROVE

Wikipedia - Richmond Vale Railway

A Minmi-Hexham Railway Act Amendment.

A Selection Of Photos Showing Orangegrove In December 2010

An unidentified concrete based between Minmi Junction and Orangegrove.

Formation at Orangegrove back towards Minmi.

Noticed along the track were a number of surviving rail sectons and a very occasional dogspike.

One of them dogspikes.

Orangegrove station platform.

2010-12-26T17:55:00.002-08:00

Cessnock Information and Photos Urgently Required.

2010-12-23T23:50:00.001-08:00

Aberdare South Junction Photos and Information Urgently Required.

Aberdare South Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

2010-12-23T23:45:00.000-08:00

~~ ABERDARE CENTRAL COLLIERY ~~

Photos and Information Urgently Required.

2010-12-22T12:02:00.001-08:00

East Greta Photographs and Information Required.

East Greta #1 Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

East Greta #2 Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

4715 4712 4859 down empty coal near East Greta.

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2010-12-22T11:52:00.000-08:00

Information and Photos Required - Please Help

2010-12-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

Information and Photos Required - Please Help

2010-12-01T18:52:00.000-08:00

¬¬ KALINGO COLLIERY BRANCH ¬¬

Information and Photos Required - Please Help

2010-12-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Information and Photos Required - Please Help

Aberdare Shaft Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

Then and Now

Can someone identify the photographer of the earlier shot?

2010-12-01T18:44:00.001-08:00

~~ NEATH - NEATH COLLIERY ~~

Information and photographs needed.

2010-12-01T18:43:00.000-08:00

Aberdare South Colliery Photographs and Information Required.

Aberdare South Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

~~ NEATH - ABERDARE SOUTH COLLIERY ~~

Information and photographs needed.

2010-12-01T18:42:00.000-08:00

~~ BEE SIDING ~~

Information and photographs needed.

2010-12-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

~~ ABERDARE JUNCT ~~

Information and photographs needed.

2010-12-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Maitland Main Colliery Photographs and Information Required.

Maitland Main Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum

2010-12-01T18:28:00.001-08:00

~~ MILLFIELD COLLIERY BRANCH ~~

Information and Photos Required

2010-12-01T18:27:00.001-08:00

~~ KALINGO JUNCTION ~~

Information and Photos Required

2010-12-01T18:18:00.000-08:00

~~ ABERDARE CENTRAL JUNCTION ~~

Photos and Information Required

Please Help.

2010-05-04T00:25:00.001-07:00

~~ PELAW MAIN YARD & SHED ~~

Thanks to Chris Nelson for the following selction of photographs taken around Pelaw Main shed.

2010-05-01T03:03:00.001-07:00

Kurri Kurri North Information and photographs Urgently Required.

2010-04-28T23:56:00.000-07:00

~~ RICHMOND VALE RAILWAY ~~

ALL TIME FLEETLIST

A listing of locomotives used on the Richmond Vale Railway during its existence.

2010-04-28T23:30:00.000-07:00

~~ OTHER RELEVANT PRESERVATION NEWS ~~

Rail Museums - Local Mining - Trackbeds

Please send us any news for inclusion here!

2010-04-28T23:28:00.000-07:00

The 'Friends of SMR' are currently a private group and are set up in the former workshops at East Greta Junction.

In early November the group celebrated the return to their home of SMR10 and SMR18, photos of the occasion shown below.

More news on the groups activities is always welcome.

Please send us any FoSMR news for inclusion here.

Check out the news section for images of SMR10 and 18 on a tour to Neath. August 5th 2011.

2010-04-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

~~ RICHMOND VALE RAILWAY MUSEUM ~~

NEWS

News from the Richmond Vale Railway museum will commence here during the middle of 2010

2010-04-24T05:32:00.000-07:00

Weston Information and Photographs Urgently Required!

2010-04-24T05:10:00.000-07:00

¬¬ HEBBURN LINES ¬¬

Branching From Weston!

Hebburn No1
Opened - 1901
Closed - 1958

Hebburn No2
Opened - 1918
Closed - 1972

Hebburn No2 (Tunnel)
Opened - 1902
Closed - 1908

Elrington
Opened - 1924
Closed - 1962

2010-04-24T04:44:00.000-07:00

ABERMAIN COLLIERY RAILWAYS

Abermain No1
Opened - 1903
Closed - 1960

Abermain No2
Opened - 1912
Closed -1964

Abermain No3
Opened - 1923
Closed - 1960

2009-04-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

BELLBIRD JUNCTION - BELLBIRD - PELTON

2008 - 4816 48s33 - Leaving Pelton loader - Brad Peadon

Passing under the bridge that once carried trains to Kalingo and other collieries, the loaded train is within the Bellbird Cutting. A second track from Bellbird Colliery(former site near rear of train) once also fit in here.

4816 48s33 depart Pelton loader with a loaded coal train. 2009

5-4-2009 - PL5 48137 48134 PL2 up coal departs Pelton Colliery : Brad Peadon
Top two photos!

5-4-2009 - Pelton Unloader : Brad Peadon

Latest Website Updates!

2008-06-03T19:58:00.000-07:00

Have been fortunate enough to finally have some free time to devote to adding more to the SMR/RVR website.

A new idea has been to list the various line sections in the index column, providing a fast link to each. These sections will gradually be updated and added to as information becomes available.
All sections have the date showing the last update, so you need not go back unnecessarily to sections if they have not had any changes.
Recent additions have been:

EAST GREAT JUNCTION

EAST GRETA JUNCTION SIGNALBOX

ABERDARE JUNCTION - STANFORD MERTHYR

KURRI KURRI NORTH - ABERMAIN

NEATH

Additions to all of these, as well as the ones not yet started, would be very much welcome.

In addition to this new project, we have been continuing to update the 'All time diesel locomotive listing' for the SMR and will gradually add direct links from locomotive numbers to photos that show that unit.
We still desperately seek photographic proof of 40, 44 and 45 class on the line beyond the junction.

LATEST NEWS is now all in the one section, accessible from the 'Divisions' section. Latest news at the top, with older stuff gradually dropping down.

We thank all our regular contributers, those all being credited on the site.

Much more to come!
Can you help us?

2008-06-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

~ ABERDARE JUNCT - STANFORD MERTHYR ~
BRANCH

A selection of photos and other information on the former
Aberdare Junction to Stanform Merthyr line.

Historical marker next to Maitland - Cessnock Road at Heddon Greta.

In the photo below, taken behind the sign, the track can be made out to the left (see arrow).
28th May 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

Looking towards Stanford Merthyr from the Maitland - Cessnock Road!
28th May 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon
* Arrow added to photo to show former railway formation. Site Owner.

Looking towards Aberdare Junction from the same road.
28th May 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

Photos/Information/Diagrams, both historical and current day, are always needed for the website.
Please help us!

2008-06-02T20:20:00.001-07:00

Neath Colliery History - Newcastle Regional Museum
Neath Colliery, Neath Hotel and The Miners Lamp
Neath Hotel - Where The SMR Fans Occasionally Gather
Abermain #2 Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum
Abermain #3 Shaft Colliery - Newcastle Regional Museum
SMR10's Historic Return To Neath - 5-8-2011 - Photos Brad Peadon

T387 T385 Climb Neath Bank - Nathan Chapple
EL55 52 64 62 Climb Neath Bank - Nathan Chapple

A selection of photos and other information on Neath (South Maitland Railway)

Approaching Neath station from Pelton end. May 29th 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

This new marking on the south side of the Kearsley Road crossing at Neath is believed to be the planned location of a new crossing loop at Neath. To be crew worked from ground frames, it would greatly help relieve the
bottleneck existing on the line at the moment.
It is believed no firm decision has yet been made by the company. While work had still not begun at the end of 2010;
28th May 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

4707 4811 4836 pass through Neath with a loaded coalie from Pelton
on June 19th 1988.
Photo: Brad Coulter

Same location but in the other direction and many years later. PL5 48143 48129 PL3 with empties headed through Neath. May 29th 2008. Photo: Brad Peadon

Two shots above show the creek crossing just south of Neath station. There was three individual bridges here. The current one in use, which was the former up line, the former down line which retains everything except the rails and,
just out of view, the former goods siding one.
The abutments of the goods siding bridge are still there but the rest is long gone.
A building of the new crossing loop will likely see the old
down bridge carry trains again.
29th May 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

Trackwork at Neath!

April 11th 2008 saw quite a bit of track work around Neath station and to the immediate south. Part of this saw the removal of all final traces of the short lived crossover to the Abermain line.
We thank Brad Peadon for contributing the following shots of the work taking place.
Brad's WEBSITE also carries significant SMR content.

Photos/Information/Diagrams, both historical and current day, are always needed for the website.
Please help us!

2008-06-02T19:45:00.000-07:00

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Steam era shots of East Greta Junction.

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A selection of photos, diagrams and information about East Great Junction (South Maitland Railway).

Track diagram inside signalbox on May 29th 2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

Lets go look for the treasure. 29-5-2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

Crossing at East Greta Junction PL5 48143 48129 PL3 waitthe arrival of a loaded coal train from Austar with PL2 48134 48137 up front, before taking their rake of empties down to the pit.
29-5-2008 - Photo : Brad Peadon

Same train as above in a scene that has become very rare on Australian railways. A signalperson handing over the staff for the section ahead, the manned signalbox behind him ad the semephore signal beyond that. Even ALCo locomotives in coal traffic is becoming a rare event on a worldwide scale.
29-5-2008 - Photo: Brad Peadon

More photos/diagrams and information on the South Maitland Railway, past and present, is always required. Please help!

2008-06-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

A selection of photographs and information from this section of the South Maitland Railway!

2008 - PL2 48134 48137 with empties for Austar - Abermain Station - Brad Peadon

Historical board for tourists opposite Abermain Station - Photo: Peter Cousins

More photos/diagrams/information, current and historical, are always welcome! Please help.

East Greta Signalbox!

2008-06-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

~ EAST GRETA JUNCTION ~
SIGNALBOX

A selection of photos taken inside the East Greta signal box on May 29th 2008. All photos were taken by Bra d Peadon!

2008-06-01T03:01:00.000-07:00

~ LATEST SMR/RVR NEWS ~

Older News Items Below!

October 2011

New bridge over the future Hunter Expressway sees first use by SMR trains as the line is slewed to cross it.

5-8-2011

SMR10 celebrates its 100th birthday in style, hauling a passenger train to Neath and back with SMR18. Check out the photos.

12 January 2010

New highway construction is again a concern with a belief that the interchange at Heddon Greta may see the former remains of the Kurri Road platform destroyed. This has to be confirmed.

December 2010

There has been much concern about the new Hunterlink Expressway and its impact on the right of way of both the South Maitland and Richmond Vale Railways. Thanks to Denis Elwood and Graham Smith we can report that the new road will actually pass over the #1 tunnel and will not affect the actual line in any way.

It will pass under the SMR in the vicinity of Bee Siding and cause around 1 kilometre of rebuilding.

April 2010

After a bit of a break, rail operations of Pacific National resumed on the line. Those of Cootes appear to be infrequent.

April 11th 2008
Trackwork at Neath!

This website is based mostly on the contributions of others, especially those who regularly spend time around the 'South Maitland Railway' and the many related preservation projects and closed lines of this and the Richmond Vale.
I have been happy with the response so far and would invite some of the many other people interested in these railway lines to contribute photos, stories, news and other items that may be of interest.
Contributions can be sent to : stockrington @ yahoo. com. au (remove spaces).

April 11th saw quite a bit of track work around Neath station and to the immediate south. Part of this saw the removal of all final traces of the short lived crossover to the Abermain line.
We thank Brad Peadon for contributing the following shots of the work taking place.
Brad's WEBSITE also carries significant SMR content.

29-05-2008

* Recent trackwork noted in the vicinity of Bee Siding.

* It has been reported through a site contributer that surveyors have spent time in the Neath area of late. It is believed that there is interest in reinstating crossing facilities in this location.
If proceeded with, the loop is expected to be located behind the hotel at Neath and be crew worked, as opposed to being done from the former signalbox.
A visit by Brad Peadon on May 29th revealed numerous marks made on the ground, one a arrow possibly indicating where the new loop will start. There was also a significant amount of clearing and leveling of the section in question.
Brad has promised photos taken on the day which will appear in the 'Neath' section shortly.

* A number of trains have been noted in recent times with just three 48 or PL class up front and with a slightly shortened consist. The reasoning, according to the 'Semi-Retired Foamer' website is a shortage of locomotives being suffered by Pacific National.

* No further word on the rumour of X class on the SMR. Perhaps this has been sent to the already overfull waste basket.

11-05-2008

Sleeper replacement taking place from Neath station south to opposite the Neath Hotel. Only random sleepers replaced.

Modeling the SMR/RVR!

2008-05-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

MODELING THE SMR AND RVR!

Whats available - Whats coming!

Richmond Vale Railway:

Steam Era:

ROD:
A OO scale kit of this class was available from, I think, Chivers Finelines, in the UK and was sold here in Australia.
It is not currently available, although Al Cutmore (A R Kits) has mentioned an interest in doing it. Contact with the UK based company making them has been met with less than glowing interest.
CORRECTION: The model of the ROD was actually built in HO scale. One sold, complete, on UK Ebay a short while back for approximately $170 Australian. Thanks to Warren Dibb for the correction.

SMR 10 Class:
See 'South Maitland Railway'

Diesel Era:

RVR diesels never eventuated, though there were plans for such some years prior to closure.

South Maitland Railway:

Steam Era:

10 Class:
Lloyds Model Railways, based in Canberra, sold a kit for quite a few years until the business was sold. Many can be seen at exhibitions and sometimes kits and R-T-R versions show on Ebay.
It is believed that Casula Hobbies, who purchased this kit from Lloyd, has now released the kit again.

Diesel Era:

47 Class:
Train-O-Rama currently has available some beautiful models of this class available. The 47 class spent many years hauling coal on the SMR.

48 Class:
Powerline has sold a R-T-R 48 class for many years, a number of the units represented likely having seen use on the SMR (check our growing fleetlist). These models are not 100% correct in size, but they certainly look good and have found a place on our future SMR layout.
Train-O-Rama are planning to bring out a 48 class model in the future. Going by their past efforts it is expected this will be a great model.
Silverton and Austrac (Junee Railway Workshops) 48 class have both been available over the years and may turn up on Ebay from time to time.

EL Class:

The new kids on the block are available ready to run from Auscision Models. It is not currently known if the correct numbers for relevant SMR units are made.

PL Class:
Basically a 48 class with a rebuilt cab, originally converted for push/pull duties on Sydney PortLink duties.
No PL class exists ready to run, however Casula Hobbies has been promising to do one for a number of year, advertising such at a Broadmeadow exhibition. Nothing has yet eventuated.
Berg's Hobbies was also looking into a cab kit as a possibility.

T Class:
Both Austrains and Powerline have recently brought out models of the T class. Austrains offers T385 R-T-R. Both are excellent looking models and are reported to be close in quality.

Rollingstock:

Non Air Coal Hoppers:
The private non-air coal hoppers as used on both systems were available for many years from Lloyds Model Railways. No other company has yet decided to re-run them following their closure and sale.

Bogie Coal Hoppers:
AR Kits have available coal hoppers (kit and R-T-R) of bogie coal hoppers suitable for the SMR

Brown Brake Van:
These brake vans were available for many years from Lloyds Model Railways. No other company has yet decided to re-run them following their closure and sale.

*** MODELING ADDITIONS ALWAYS WELCOME ***
PLEASE EMAIL US!

Photo Album!

2008-05-08T17:30:00.000-07:00

Today a selection of photos showing the recent motive power changes occuring on the 'South Maitland Railway'.

1) T385 T387 returning from Austar and seen passing through East Greta. Photo: Brad Peadon

2) 48s33 4816 loaded coal train from Austar approaching Neath station. Photo: Stephen Carr

3) Same train as #1 also taken at Neath. Photo: Brad Peadon

4) 48s33 4816 with an empty rake passes through Kearsley. Photo: Stephen Carr

All Change On The SMR!

2008-04-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

A quick perusal of our 'Diesel Listing' will show the continuing changes on the SMR of late.

T CLASS

Did you get your photos of T383, T385 and T387? To late now! The historic visit of EMD locomotives to the line line has already ended.
They were certainly of great interest to local railfans and those further afield. I would like to be able to include photos of them during their time here should anyone be able to help?
The following combinations are believed to have have run.

T383
T385
T385+T387
T385+T383
+ A very brief operation of a T and 48 class together.

RETURN OF THE 48ers:

Alas it has ended and the 48s again rule supreme on the SMR.
However all is not lost, with 'Junee Railway Workshop' 4816 and 'South Spur' 48s33 adding some more colour to the line.
Change again my be imminent with reports that 48s33 may soon be replaced with 4836.
Again photo contributions are very welcome.

Trackwork at Neath!

2008-04-22T03:07:00.000-07:00

Photo Album!

2008-04-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Geoff Taylor for sending in these two shots showing South Maitland operations 25 years apart.

Steam was witnessing its final weeks when this shot of SMR18 and SMRxx on a down empty coal service was caught at Abermain in 1983.

Today the reason for the lines existence hasn't changed, however the motive power certainly has.
PL2 48129 PL7 48162 pass through Cessnock on April 15th with another rake of empties bound for the Austar Colliery.

South Maitland Railway Timeline!

2008-04-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

* SOUTH MAITLAND RAILWAY TIMELINE *

Like so many other sections, this one is also under construction.
Here we will feature a date by date listing of interesting and important events on the SMR collated from published materials and personal notes taken by myself and fellow fans. For a listing of these please see the credits.
This is a big undertaking and your help would definitely be appreciated. Dates of line openings/closures, opening of stations etc, train accidents, special passengers and the like are all required.

20-07-1892 - Work commences on new railway from West Maitland to the 'East Greta Coal Co' mine at East Greta.

1893 - Trains commence operating from East Greta early in the year. Government locomotives were initially utilized for all coal haulage duties.

1895 - East Greta Coal Company purchases their first locomotive, a Manning Wardle and Co 4-4-0T. The locomotive was numbered, not surprisingly, 1.
The locomotive came second hand, originally owned by the NSWGR.

SMR Tickets!

2008-04-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

* SOUTH MAITLAND RAILWAY TICKETS *

South Maitland, like most Edmonson type tickets, have become a much sought after collectors item in recent years.
Below is a selection of different ones and we invite readers to send in scans from their collection for inclusion.

According to David Phillips (ticket collector) the 'Velocipede' ticket was used for the carriage of push bikes on company trains.

SMR News!

2008-04-18T21:17:00.000-07:00

T387 has been sent to Sydney suffering ground relays, with T385 noted carrying on with trains of only 8 flats length.
Talk is that RTS liveried T383 has been sent to Newcastle to help out. If anyone obtains a photo of T383 out there a copy of the photo would be appreciated.

Coming days:

Saturday: Cancelled
Sunday: 5am departure from Broadmeadow
Monday: Likely the same as Sunday!

Diesels on the South Maitland Railway

2008-04-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

* DIESELS ON THE SOUTH MAITLAND RAILWAY *

This section, currently under construction, will be a regularly updated listing of all diesel locomotives photographically proved to have been used on the South Maitland Railways and their current situation.
Locomotives said to have operated on the SMR, but without conclusive proof, are noted as such.
List includes only those to have ventured beyond East Greta Junction. In the past at least one member of the 421 and 422 classes have visited this location.
We welcome any additions (preferably including photo), corrections, news and photos of all the locomotives appearing here. These can be sent to the email address on the front page.

Yes - I realise 'many' locomotives are still missing :-)

STATE RAIL / PACIFIC NATIONAL

40 CLASS

Reports, one believed to be reliable, have been received that at least one 40 class has made it to Cessnock. This has not yet been confirmed.(NC)
* Please help with further information.

44 CLASS

Reports, one believed to be reliable, have been received that at least one 44 class has made it to Cessnock, although no number has been quoted. This has not yet been confirmed.
Peter Cousins recently mentioned having a photo in his collection showing a 44 class at Cessnock. He can't remember the number but hopes to locate the photograph!
* Please help with further information.(NC)

45 CLASS

We believe that the 45 class have made it to the SMR on, possibly, a few occasions. The only number so far recieved is 4510, which has been reported as the last one after spreading the rails at Pelton.(TA)
* Please help with further information!

47 CLASS
4703 - GN - O -
4704 - GN - C -
4705 - GN - C -
4706 - GN - O -
4707 - GN - C - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4708 - GN - C -
4711 - GN - O -
4712 - GN - O,C - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BP)
4715 - GN - O -
4716 - GN - O - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BP)

48 CLASS
4811 - GA - C - xxxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4822 - GA - O - xxxxxxx - xxxx - Lead the first SRA train over the SMR. Train ran direct to Pelton from Port Waratah. (BP)
4836 - GA - G - xxxxxxx - xxxx - Brad Coulter has supplied a great photo of this unique liveried locomotive passing through Neath?(BC)
4848 - GA - O -
4854 - GA - C -
4855 - GA - O -
4856 - GA - O -
4861 - GA - RT,FL -
4864 - GA - RT -
4865 - GA - RT -
4867 - GA - RT -
4868 - GA - O - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4870 - GA - O -
4871 - GA - O - G-3387-26 - 1965 - Locomotive later rebuilt as PL2, still in service.
4872 - GA - O,RT -
4873 - GA - RT -
4874 - GA - C - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4875 - GA - C - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4876 - GA -O -
4877 - GA - RT - G-3387-32 - 1965 - Still in service with Pacific National.
4878 - GA - RT -
4880 - GA - RT -
4882 - GA - O -
4884 - GA - O -
4890 - GA - O -
4893 - GA - O, RT - Locomotive was second unit on first SRA coal train over the SMR. (see 4822) (BP)
4894 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
4898 - GA - O - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BP)
48116 - GA - R -
48120 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
48123 - GA - O -
48127 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
48129 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
48130 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
48134 - GA - FR - G-6019-9 - 1969 - Still in service with Pacific National, SMR regular. (BP)
48137 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BC)
48143 - GA - C,FR - G-6019-13 - 1969 - Still in service with Pacific National, SMR regular. (BP)
48150 - GA - FL -
48151 - GA - C - xxxxxx - xxxx - (BP)
48152 - GA - FR - xxxxxx - xxxx - (RT)
48160 - GA - C -
48165 - GA - B - xxxxxx - xxxx - Brad Peadon photographed this locomotive on a train in the early 90s. A photo has been promised. (BP)

73 CLASS
7307 - WK - O - 666 - 1977 - In service with Patricks, who purchased from the HVTC.
Believed to have only gone as far as Neath, utilized for shunting operations (passenger shuttles hauled by 3112) during 1995 Steamfest.

PL CLASS
PL2 - GA - FR -

PL3 - GA - FR - G-3387-25 - 1965 - In service with Pacific National on SMR duties. Formerly 4870.(ST)
PL5 - GA - FR - G-3387-36 - 1965 - In service with Pacific National on SMR duties. Formerly 4881.(ST)
PL7 - GA - FR - G-3387-11 - 1964 - In service with Pacific National on SMR duties. Formerly 4856.(ST)

CHICAGO FREIGHTCAR LEASING AUSTRALIA

T CLASS

T385 - CE - CF - 64-340 - 1964 - In service, commenced South Spur coal operations to Austar in April 2008. First EMD locomotive to traverse the SMR.
T387 - CE - CF - 65-417 - 1965 - In service, commenced South Spur coal operations to Austar in April 2008. First EMD locomotive the traverse the SMR.
** Use of T class is reported to be an interim measure until replacement locomotives are sourced. Their usage is historic, being the first EMD locomotives to travel the line beyond East Greta Junction.

JUNEE RAILWAY WORKSHOPS

48 CLASS

4816 - GA - JR - xxxxxxxx - xxxx - Commenced operating on 'South Spur' containerized coal trains in late April and, along with 48s33, ended the brief term of the T class on the SMR. First Junee Railway Workshop owned locomotive on the line.(BP)

SILVERTON/SOUTH SPUR/COOTE

48 CLASS

48s33 - GA - CO -

830 CLASS

869 - GA - CO

872 - GA - CO

T CLASS

T383 - CE - RS

FUTURE

EL CLASS

Due to replace ALCo power on the South Maitland from December 1st 2010. Planned delayed due to ongoing trackwork.

RUMOURS

X CLASS
The SMR seems the specialise in the area of attracting rumours, both regarding future trackage plans, new mines, new freight operations and of course, new locomotive classes to be introduced.
One of the more interesting ones just surfaced (April 2008) saying that Pacific National are investigating the use of double ex-Victorian X class to replace the 48/PL classes currently in use.
Can't see it myself - but who knows. (RT)

Lists show in order: Locomotive number, builder, livery worn at time of sighting, builders number, year, notes and contributer in (brackets).

Builders:
CE = Clyde Engineering, NSW
GA = Goodwin Alco, NSW
GN = Goninan (Newcastle)
WK = Walkers, Maryborough, Queensland

Liveries:
B = Bicentenial
C = Candy
CF = Chicago Freightcar Leasing Australia.

CO = Coote green and yellow.
FR = Freightrail Blue
G = Green and yellow 125th Anniversary livery.
O = Original Indian Red with yellow lining.
R = Reverse
RS = Rail Technical Support Group
RT = Red Terror

ST = Silverton Rail blue and yellow
CF = CFCLA

Contributers:
The use of any information published above should be credited to the original contributer as listed below.

AG = Adam Green

BP = Brad Peadon
BC = Brad Coulter
NC = Nathan Chapple
RT = Ryan Taylor
ST = Scott Todd

SC = Stephen Carr
TA = Terry Armstrong

South Maitland Railway Steam Locomotives!

2008-04-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

* SOUTH MAITLAND RAILWAY STEAM LOCOMOTIVES *

This section, currently under construction, will be a regularly updated listing of all steam locomotives used on the South Maitland Railways and their current situation.
We welcome any additions, corrections, preservation updates and photos of all the locomotives appearing here. These can be sent to the email address on the front page.

Yes - I realise many locomotives are still missing :-)

1 - MW - 39 -1895 - Locomotive was second hand from the NSWGR, later withdrawn in 1911, scrapped.
1 - AV - 1596 - 1911 - Later sold to Bulli Colliery in 1937.
2 - AV - 1415 - 1901 - Later sold to J & A Brown in 1934. (See Richmond Vale Railway) Preserved unoperational at Dorrigo.
3 - AV - 1436 - 1902 - Later sold to 'Sydney and Suburban Metal Co'. Now scrapped.
4 - KC - 2118 - 1902 - Obtained second hand from 'Messers Findlayson & Co'. Locomotive scrapped.
5 -KC - 2299 - 1903 - Obtained second hand, locomotive was withdrawn in 1918 and scrapped in 1927.
6 - AV - 1464 - 1904 - Purchased new, operated until the early 1930s, subsequently sold to unknown buyer.
7 - KC - 2029 - 1904 - Obtained second hand, had been imported by Messers Amos and Co, scrapped in 1927.
8 - AV - 1487 - 1905 - Obtained second hand from unknown source, later sold to Gunnedah Colliery following 1928 withdrawal.
9 - AV - 1481 - 1905 - Obtained second hand from unknown source, later sold to Mt Kembla Coal Co.
10 - VL - 10 - 1906 - Obtained second hand from the NSWGR (ex- 21N), locomotive withdrawn 1911 and later scrapped.
11 - BP - 1629 - 1907 - Obtained second hand from NSWGR (ex- 84), locomotive withdrawn and scrapped in 1935.
12 - BP - 1628 - 1907 - Obtained second hand from NSWGR (ex- 83), locomotive withdrawn and scrapped in 1935.
13 - AV - 1541 - 1908 - Purchased new, sold to 'BHP Newcastle' during 1944.
14 - AV - 1559 - 1909 - Purchased new, sold to 'Hetton_Bellbird Coal Co' during 1936. Preserved unoperational at Dorrigo.
15 - BP - 5603 - 1912 - Locomotive withdrawn 1965, scrapped 1973.
16 - BP - 5638 - 1912 - Locomotive withdrawn 1957, scrapped 1973.
21 - BP - 3335 - 1919 - Obtained second hand from NSWGR (ex- 51), later sold in 1940 to the 'Public Works Department'.
29 - BP - 6139 - 1923 - Locomotive withdrawn 1965, scrapped 1973.

Famous South Maitland 10 Class:

SMR10 - BP - 5520 - 1912 - Operational, supposed to be based at East Greta Junction.
SMR17 - BP - 5790 - 1914 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR18 - BP - 5909 - 1915 - Operational, supposed to be based at East Greta Junction.
SMR19 - BP - 5910 - 1915 - Port Waratah Coal Services, rotting on Kooragang Island.
SMR20 - BP - 5998 - 1920 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR22 - BP - 6055 - 1921 - Stored, Richmond Vale Railway Museum, Kurri Kurri.
SMR23 - BP - 6056 - 1921 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR24 - BP - 6125 - 1922 - Stored, Richmond Vale Railway Museum, Kurri Kurri.
SMR25 - BP - 6126 - 1923 - Stored, Richmond Vale Railway Museum, Kurri Kurri.
SMR26 - BP - 6127 - 1923 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR27 - BP - 6137 -1 923 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR28 - BP - 6138 - 1923 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.
SMR30 - BP - 6294 - 1926 - Operational, Richmond Vale Railway Museum, Kurri Kurri.
SMR31 - BP - 6295 - 1926 - Owned by Hunter Valley Railway Trust, Branxton.

OTHER LOCOMOTIVES:

Cessnock #1 Colliery at Kalingo
? - BA - 1738 - 1923 - This locomotive, more commonly known as ALISON, was purchased second hand from Goninan and Company, who had purchased it from original owner, 'Silicate Construction Company of London'. Sold to Lysaghts in 1933 for shunting at their Newcastle plant, later transfered to the company's Port Kembla plant, it was donated to the 'Rail Transport Museum in 1972.
The RTM, at this time, was at its original Enfield base. ALISON was transfered to Thirlmere with the rest of the collection in 1974. Sent to the 'Glenreagh Mountain Railway' for restoration.

Listing shows locomotive number, builder, build number, year delivered, notes!

AV = Avonside Engine Co
BA = Barclay
BP = Beyer Peacock and Co Ltd, England
KC = Kitson and Co
MW = Manning Wardle and Co, England
VL = Vale and Lacy, Sydney

Original listing published in 'South Maitland Railways by Peter Attenborough'. Updated with personal notes.

Welcome To SMR-RVR Railways!

2008-04-12T22:56:00.000-07:00

Here in this little corner of the WWW we will slowly be developing a website based on the 'South Maitland' and Richmond Vale' railways. These two operations, in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales have long fascinated railfans and it is somewhat of a shame that they have so little coverage.

It is hoped, with your help, to include historical items/photographs, latest news, preservation information, locomotive/rollingstock lists, maps, modelling and other items that would be of interest to people.

If you can help please contact us :-

Stockrington @ yahoo. com . au (Remove spaces)

Below is a magnificent shot from the SMR taken by Dennis Rittson. For more items please check his website.

Yours in coal.
John Brown (with help from Alexander)