Following the discovery of kerosene shale at Newnes, attention turned to how the processed products could be economically transported to markets. As the Wolgan Valley is hemmed in by sandstone cliffs, this was not easy.

Engineer Henry Deane not only did it, but surprised the sceptics by using standard gauge, thus making the wagons compatible with the main line to Sydney.

The railway route descends through Penrose (now Tunnel) Gorge, passing through two tunnels and sharing a 6m (2o') wide chasm with the creek, before emerging into the Wolgan Valley.

Bushwalks

Tunnel Gorge, Glow Worm Tunnel, the Wolgan Valley and Newnes are all within the World Heritage listed Wollemi National Park. Walkers and mountain bike riders can follow various routes from Wolgan Valley Rd and the road through Newnes State Forest which leads to a carpark part way down Tunnel Gorge.

Newnes

There is a camping area, beautiful scenery, and great bushwalking. Some enthusiasts have taken to locating rail sidings and other remains with metal detectors.

Campers should bring everything they need; very little is available at Newnes and facilities are limited to toilets.

• Bushwalking (hiking) Links
• Design & Construction - Historic document by Henry Deane.
• Glow Worm Tunnel - easily accessible to bushwalkers & push bike riders.
• History Plaza - Blue Mountains history.
• Kerosene shale mining in the Blue Mountains.
• Newnes - Lithgow Tourism

Geared Locomotives

• Geared Steam Locomotive Works - Shays and others.
• Shay Locomotives  Your On-Line Reference and Research Site for Shay Locomotives.