The tour started with transport provided by the bus museum at Tempe, we travelled to Clyde in style. On arrival we were taken to the wheel unloading are, where all incoming wheels are checked and gauged. Then moved to the wheel storage area where new wheels are kept.

Moving on we were taken to the wheel turning area where the large machine that loads, checks, turns the wheel to the finished requirement. This machine has replaced the manual turning and has automated the task to give the high efficiency that Maintrain is noted for.

Next stop was to see the Tangara’s being refurbished and repaired. The turn around time in this area was paramount to the success of Maintrain and is closely watched by Rail Corp. From here we moved to the brand new fitout centre where a train can come off the line and straight into this centre, it is then completely stripped inside and out. All the seats doors, windows are removed and repaired or replaced. The outside receives a completed overall and the train is then reassembled and returned to service in record time.

The tour was a great day and much was seen and learnt. Thanks to Maintrain for a great day. But that was not the end of the day for us, we then joined our vintage chariot and headed to the Air Museum at Bankstown. Here we viewed planes of all types including the famous Canberra bomber. We then again joined our vintage bus and headed for a bit to eat at the nearby “pub”. The meal was very good and enjoyed by all, this topped off a very busy and interesting day that was savoured by all.