Query: Chasing trains on the Main West

Maikha · Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2008 2:56 pm

Hi all

On Sunday, since I'll already be in Lithgow, I've planned on heading out and getting the ARHS/nsw Commemorative tour to Bathurst, before joining them all there for the lunch, mainly to see what the scenery and road is like along there more than anything.

I've plotted the route already from Google Maps, however I thought I'd post the query out there from those who have chased trains along the route if they wish to share of any good spots/locations along the way that are worth trying out. I'm not particularly fussed on lighting conditions as such.

I've always wanted to spend sometime out West to capture some of the Western traffic, but never really had the opportunity to do so until now, so particular thanks to anyone who can provide some kind advice Smile

Thanks!
P.S. I'll be without internet access from tomorrow, however will try and check all responses on Saturday evening.

Cheers
Maikha Ly

The Intercity Platform & Valve Gear Media!
http://www.theintercityplatform.com/

Comments made are that of my own, and do not reflect those of organisations mentioned.

Indefatigable · Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2008 6:35 pm

My advice is not to speed on the roads around Sodwall's and between there and Lithgow, no matter how far behind the train you think you are. There's too many sharp turns and blind corners, it's really scary when some gunzel in a commodore speeds around a corner in front of you and nearly runs you off the road chasing "that shot" of the train.

The trains practically crawl through that section anyway, so you should be able to get in front of it fairly easily. A few of the roads that follow the railway between Tarana and Brewongle are dirt, but there's a good spot at the top of a horseshoe curve near Locksley (at least I'm pretty sure it's Locksley), where the westbound trains are working hard up the grade. Also provides for nice panning shots if you're filming.

Happy hunting!

Maikha · Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2008 7:10 pm

Thanks dude, definately keep that in mind! Smile

Cheers
Maikha Ly

The Intercity Platform & Valve Gear Media!
http://www.theintercityplatform.com/

Comments made are that of my own, and do not reflect those of organisations mentioned.

Spletsie · Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2008 7:44 pm

There's a big curve near Sodwalls that has featured in many railway photos over the years.

Ads · Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2008 12:04 pm

dasher · Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2008 4:28 pm

Ads, its been many a year now, but I have driven most of those dirt roads in a conventional 2WD sedan.

I didn't come here looking for trouble, I just came to do the RP shuffle... break it down...

MBAX · Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2008 5:43 pm

The only dirt is still the bit around Tarana Quarry. The rest is pretty good now and has been resealed. My pick would be Locksley off the road bridge for a morning shot.

For lease - depot, slightly used but recently renovated...

http://roy-marshall.fotopic.net/

Ads · Posted: Tue Sep 23, 2008 11:46 am

Thanks for your replies dasher & MBAX.
I'm always a little conscious to choose my gunzelling routes carefully when Im driving far from home. ie. overnight/week trips.

I don't mind the car breaking down if its near a pass line in my home state, but anywhere else is not all that preferable.

Maikha · Posted: Tue Sep 23, 2008 4:43 pm

Hi all

Thanks for the advice to all who replied!

Chasing last Sunday's train was quite an adventure for me, as the train was doing some good rate of knots, while I had to contend with being stuck behind a young L-Plater, and behind infront of a really aggressive gunzel driving a ute, didn't get many shots of the train going to Bathurst, but on the return, managed a shot at various places. Photos can be viewed here.

Sodwalls and Locksley were the good spots we managed to stop at, as well as various others.

Cheers
Maikha Ly

The Intercity Platform & Valve Gear Media!
http://www.theintercityplatform.com/

Comments made are that of my own, and do not reflect those of organisations mentioned.