The trip was “different” and for those who loved the sound of a GM singing, it was like music to your ears, to the rest they just went deaf. The CPH travelled well through the suburbs and, windows open and wind blowing through the carriage to cool us down. The CPH motored well a the permitted speed limit of 80kms to arrive at Penrith on schedule, which was not bad considering we were a little behind when we left Central.

Ahh, the mountains, fresh air, sparkling creeks and hills, big hills! Modern trains today appear not to notice the steep climb up the mountains, they are working hard but we don’t see it. The CPH on the other hand worked very hard climbing the mountains, the driver has the Detroit Diesels wide open and they sounded great, all the was to Valley Heights these motors performed perfectly. Finally we arrived at Valley heights and slowly moved into the yard were special steps were moved into place to allow passengers to disembark.

The place was alive! With so many displays and people. Our Rail motors were shunted onto the turntable to provide much needed room. They were many displays both static and dynamic, steam loco’s that gave us a glimpse of yesteryear with short rides and detail information provided by the staff on site. Being able to climb into a beautifully restored steam engine with someone who could explain every little detail was a highlight for me. . Model displays were very impressive and added to the variation of the day.

The time went so quick and about 3pm were boarding the CPH for the journey home. There was a minor glitch with points at Springwood but this was rectified and we were soon on our way. Again moving through the suburbs of Sydney in a vehicle that turned heads as we motored through the stations. By the time we arrived at Central we all agreed that it was a great day and sorry that it had to end. We must thank the Paterson Team who’s made the day possible and the Team at Valley Heights who made us welcome and put on a very memorable day.