The Richmond Vale Railway Museum is located just outside of Kurri Kurri New South Wales. Run by volunteers, it is set in the old Pelaw Main colliery and aims to preserve local railway history. Unfortunately a bushfire went through the area in early 2018, destroying a large section of track and many old wagons that were in storage. The volunteers have restored some of the track, so the trains are running again, but not out to the old colliery. You do however get to ride in a steam train.
Bushfire Damaged Carriages
The entry fee allows access to the grounds, manager’s residence and the steam train ride. The old colliery buildings and processing plant are fenced off for safety reasons, but you can still take photos as the view through the fence is good. Unfortunately, when we visited the old manager’s residence was locked, so we couldn’t look through the interior. However, it was worth a look around the outside of this impressive looking building.
Manager’s Residence
On the grounds, you will find a nicely preserved old steam train and the steam train ride. The train runs regularly, so don’t worry if you miss it. The ride is not very long but enjoyable.
Steam Train Ride at the Museum
Richmond Vale Railway Museum Steam Train Ride
Steam Train at Richmond Vale Railway Museum
There is a small playground, where children can climb over a small train engine. Nearby a miniature train provides rides for visitors.
Old Coal Wagons
Old Mine Processing Plant
To see what else there is to do in the Hunter Valley, please see some of our other stories.
Located in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia the historic Zig Zag Railway is a unique railway, with its zigzagging track and vintage steam locomotives. Offering an experience of travel in the late 19th century, it’s a must do if visiting Sydney.
History
The Zig Zag Railway’s story began in 1869, when the need arose to transport goods and passengers across the steep escarpment of the Blue Mountains. The existing railway line at the time was unable to handle the steep incline, and a more innovative solution was needed. The resulting design incorporated a series of switchbacks and tunnels that allowed trains to gradually climb the mountainside. Looking like a capital letter Z, the layout gave the track its name.
The Zig Zag Railway officially opened in 1870 and quickly became a vital transportation link between Sydney and the west of New South Wales. It played a crucial role in the development of the region, transporting coal, timber, and other essential goods.
Becoming a Tourist Attraction
Unfortunately, the Zig Zag Railway’s reign as the primary transportation route was short-lived. In 1910, the nearby Ten Tunnels Deviation opened, offering a more efficient and direct route. As a result, the Zig Zag Railway fell into disuse and was eventually abandoned.
However, in 1975, a group of volunteers formed the Zig Zag Railway Co-op and began the process of restoring the railway to its former glory. Reopening in 1977, the Zig Zag Railway offers visitors a chance to travel on heritage steam locomotives, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains.
Getting There
Depending on where you board the train, you can either drive or arrive by train. From the upper station at Clarence, a large car park caters for visitors. If leaving from Clarence self drive is the best way to get there. Choosing to join at the lower points enables you to catch a train from Sydney. Just make sure the connecting times are right and you can board the train here.
The trip is booked as a return ticket, so you finish at the same station you started at. Booking is best done on line as the trains are often fully booked.
What to See
At Clarence, displays and exhibits detail the history of the railway, providing a great introduction to the visit. Exchange your online ticket for vintage style ticket at the gift shop, which has some interesting items for sale.
When the train arrives there is plenty of time to look at the carriages and locomotive. We were able to go into the cab, talk to the driver and look at the firebox.
As the train travels between stations a commentary explains the history and workings of the railway. It also points out places of interest such as the viaducts and tunnels. The viaducts are amazing with their arches and at one point you can see several at once, built into the escarpment.
The train stops twice each way so that the locomotive can change to the other end of the train to pull it on the next leg. Passengers are allowed out at these stops where you can look at some displays in the old stations. The signal box at one was also open, so we were able to see that as well.
Be aware that there are no allocated seats, so if you get off when you come back, someone may be sitting where you were when you return to the carriage.
Locomotive
On our trip, the locomotive was Steam Locomotive 218A built in 1902 by Beyer, Peacock & Company in Manchester, England.it was withdrawn from service in 1958 and later acquired by the Zig Zag Railway Co-op in 1975. It has since been restored to operational condition and is now used to haul passenger trains on the Zig Zag Railway.
Engine 218A built by Baldwin Locomotive Works Philadelphia USA in 1943 an AC16 Class steam locomotiveThe firebox in the locomotiveTrack patrol vehicleOne of the viaducts along the trackView along the track during the train rideLocomotive changing endsSignal BoxInside the signal boxEngine 218A built by Baldwin Locomotive Works Philadelphia USA in 1943
Located in Sydney Australia, South Eveleigh has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. This transformation has turned an industrial site into a modern and dynamic precinct that combines technology, innovation, lifestyle, and heritage.
One of the major highlights of South Eveleigh is its rich industrial heritage. The site was once home to the Eveleigh Railway Workshops, which played a vital role in Sydney’s early rail history. Many of the original heritage buildings have been preserved and repurposed, offering a fascinating blend of historical charm and contemporary design.
History
Preserved within the workshop building, Bays 1 and 2 showcase a collection of machinery, tools, and artifacts used in the workshops, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the workers. Interpretive signs explain the significance and use of the tools and machinery.
Dating from 1887, the vast locomotive workship contains workshops for blacksmithing, boilermaking, and other essential trades. Importantly, these are not just static museum displays but remain in use. Courses are held locally teaching people these disappearing trades.
Current Use
Today, South Eveleigh serves as a hub for startups, tech companies, and creative industries. A modern high-tech interior provides office space for companies and business, while others house fitness centres and cafes.
A cafe within the main building is surrounded by old machinery and tool racks, while old steam powered hammer presses and boring machines are scattered throughout the office spaces.
A wonderful place to wander around, learning about the past, while surrounded by high-tech enterprises. After taking in the displays, there are cafes, restaurants and a brewery to relax at.
Old boiler room
Workshop area. Still in use by hobbyistsTool roomWorkshop area. Still in use by hobbyistsNew business offices inside the old workshopsOld jig borer on displaySteam hammer on displayPhoto displayView from second floor showing cafe and brewery next to machinery displays
