Glenbrook Gorge Route
The low, poorly ventilated tunnel on Lapstone Hill caused
severe passenger and crew discomfort, with locomotives sometimes stalling on the steep
grade & having to reverse out of the stifling tunnel. In one instance,
".....passengers had to spend nearly an hour admiring the beauties of the interior of
Glenbrook tunnel. Whilst traversing the tunnel the train stopped, & not until divided
in two sections could progress be made. The stoppage is said to be due to the lack of
sufficient head of steam." (The Nepean Times, 12/9/1912) With further increases in
traffic necessitating duplication of the line, a new route was planned.
Following the opening of the Lithgow Zig Zag deviation, the men & machines were
moved to Glenbrook In 1911, the present line through Glenbrook Gorge was opened. The
grade was reduced to 1 in 60, a new brick viaduct constructed over Knapsack Gully, and
Glenbrook Station re-located. This route remains in use to the present day.
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First train through Glenbrook Gorge, in 1911. Note the second locomotive
assisting the climb. Locomotives are believed to be Beyer Peacock P-6 Class 4-6-0, later
re-classified 32 class. Today, such a view would be obscured by trees, undergrowth and
overhead power cables. Electrification was bad news for photographers! Glenbrook Gorge
is now part of the World Heritage listed national park.
Travellers to the
Blue Mountains are advised to sit on the left side of the carriage, in the upstairs
compartment, for the best views.
Map...
Electric & steam train services.....
Photo: Harry Phillips
Courtesy BMCL |
