Hunter Valley Steamfest 2023 - 35th Anniversary - Featuring 3801, 6029, R766 & 5917!
After a for your absence due to COVID and Floods, the Hunter Valley Steamfest officially returned! It was also the belated 35th Anniversary of the event as well. The event featured Steam Locomotives 3801, 6029, R766 and 5917, along with Diesel Locomotives 4916, 4201 and 4501. CPH Railmotor 1/3/7 was also in attendance. This was the first time 3801 attended Steamfest since 2007, and also the first time R766 has attended the event since it's restoration.
On the Saturday, Steam Locomotive 3801 ran Shuttle Trips to Branxton, while 6029 operated Shuttles to Paterson and Newcastle Interchange. R766 operated three Port Waratah Coal Run trips, one of which we got too travel on in the afternoon. CPH Railmotor 1/3/7 operated Paterson Shuttles throughout the day also. We had a look around the Rally Ground, which had a fantastic display of tractions engines and steam machinery.
On the Sunday, we went to Victoria Street Station to see the Great Train Race, featuring all four locomotives. This was the first time this has happened since 2016. It was truly a spectacular sight! After the race, we went and had a look at the Model Railway Display located in Church Street, then decided to call it a day.
It truly was an amazing weekend, featuring four of NSW's finest Steam Locomotives. Well done to everyone involved for putting on a fantastic weekend. The 35th Anniversary of the Hunter Valley Steamfest was a great success. 2024 awaits!
ENJOY!