Wow what a great weekend it has been so far, it’s Easter weekend and the first of two long weekends in a row, yay. We were booked to go on the picnic train two years ago but along came lockdown. This year luck was on our side and yesterday hubby and I went on the old steam train from Canberra to Bungendore. It was a pleasant journey and so relaxing enjoying the countryside as we traveled along in the old world steam train. I haven’t seen a steam train for decades and was so happy to be able to participate in this experience.
It made me want to go off on a longer train trip somewhere perhaps interstate. I just love the old world charm that trains evoke. It was amazing to see many people taking the trip to Bungendore and also to see people that just came to see the steam train. All along the route there were people by the roadside, at bridges and other places gathered to see the train pass, waving to the train and taking photos or videos of the train. I waved back to people too and enjoyed the atmosphere of the day.
As we weaved through the countryside the train went through tunnels and the train conductor or concierge told us to close our windows as we enter the tunnels; as the smoke will come in the open windows. Those windows had heavy solid wooden frames and latches that require a strong grip to operate. As as we went along it was funny to hear the windows suddenly being closed as we entered the tunnels and open as we exited the tunnels. We felt the train curve as we went through a gorge and climbing high as we traveled through a valley and over bridges. It was a terrific experience and I want to do this again soon.
We ate our picnic lunches and saw many happy smiling faces in the carriage as everyone was enjoying their food and company. I was surprised at how narrow the passage was between the seats and fitting into our booth. People are much bigger nowadays than they were in the 1930’s when this train was in use.
I didn’t get the chance to film much of the train arriving in Canberra station, so my husband said let’s drive out to Bungendore on Sunday and we can take a video of the train arriving at Bungendore railway station. So with that in mind we stayed on the train as it pulled into Bungendore feeling relaxed and content. Then after a few minutes the train went into reverse using a diesel electric engine to do the return journey back to Canberra. The weather was absolutely perfect for the entire day and actually all weekend I am happy to say. Easter is a time when one can never tell what the weather will do.
Hubby and I had a most wonderful day out yesterday and we were on cloud nine with the whole day. Today we did make the drive out to Bungendore to wait for the train’s arrival. It was actually a few minutes late so that added to the excitement with the platform full of people waiting to see the train. People of all ages and children too. I noticed the level crossing had people gathered there too; to see the train arrive and that was marvellous to see.
Steam trains have not lost their public appeal in all the years that have passed. That is lovely to see, and actually I forgot to mention, yesterday as we went along the track there were spots on the highway and other roads that had a spot to see the train pass; had people pulled over to see and film the train. Some people could stand in their backyard or near parks etc to wave to the train. How wonderful is that! Seeing these people really made my day and it was a pleasure to wave back to them too. Happy smiling faces everywhere. Today we noticed people doing the same as we drove out to Bungendore, it was a delight to see and just added to the experience.
Bungendore is a small country town on the way to the south coast of New South Wales 45 minutes from Canberra. The railway station opened in 1885 and is much the same as it was then I am happy to say. A traditional Victorian era station that is part of Australian old world charm.
