A defining part of Australia's steam train history returned to the rails over the weekend after more than a decade and it's set to roll through the Blue Mountains.
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Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the widely adored steam locomotive 3801 returned to passenger services after a $3.5 million dollar NSW Government funded overhaul, offering customers a unique view of our steam rail history.
"From this weekend, 3801 will offer customers the chance to go back in time with regular one-hour shuttle rides departing from Central Station," Mr Toole said.
In the next few months 3801 will also make trips to the Blue Mountains, the Southern Highlands, Albury, Wagga Wagga, Junee, and towns in western and northern NSW.
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Mr Toole said no other steam engine in Australia has captured the imagination of rail enthusiasts and the public as much as 3801.
"This is an exciting opportunity for people across NSW to take a trip on the State's most iconic steam locomotive. This starts a new chapter in the life of the historic and much loved locomotive," he said.
He also wanted to thank volunteers an staff who have worked closely with Transport Heritage NSW in the past decade to make this happen.
History of 3801
When 3801 first launched in 1943, it instantly changed the image of the NSW Railways with its streamlined art-deco style.
3801 made its first journey from Central Station in 1943 and operated as an express passenger locomotive and later as a freight locomotive until being formally withdrawn from service in 1962.
It became famous for being the only steam locomotive to have travelled to all mainland Australian states and territories.
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