February 1988 saw Flying Scotsman being prepared to take part in the Australian Bi-Centennial celebrations. It was re-painted and refurbished at Southall before sailing from Tilbury docks to Sydney. Scotsman turned out to be a huge hit with the Australian public.

Seen here waiting departure from Melbourne for Alice Springs via Adelaide in 1988.

Here are three short videos recorded in 1988-89 featuring the Flying Scotsman in NSW.

What really stands out is how much the attitude to rail safety has changed significantly over the last three decades. 

Included in the videos is the scene of the now infamous departure from Sydney Terminal of the “Western Australia” tour, when people began pouring off the ends of the platforms and out into the yard, forcing an emergency halt to the train.

https://youtu.be/tpXrZ9HfnyI

https://youtu.be/1SP1HWj4-OI

https://youtu.be/GMBnLGkcErg

--Bevan Wall