Train tragics' heritage project on track

But Engadine resident Steve Rowling and his sons Brett and Todd reckon the Cockatoo Express is far more interesting.

The trio are self-declared train tragics who spent most of their Saturdays restoring heritage trains at the Eveleigh Railway Workshops at Redfern.

"We work side-by-side with dad, learning the old carpentry skills that few others have the opportunity to experience and may otherwise be lost forever,'' Todd said.

The family's current project is getting an old passenger railway carriage back on the tracks, carrying out myriad tasks from sawing, routing, sanding and fitting of replacement timbers on the carriage to treatment of corroded metal fittings.

"It's a great opportunity for us to work together on something that's worthwhile in a safe and friendly working environment,'' patriarch Steve said.

"It will be great to see it out on the tracks for everyone to enjoy.''

When restored, the carriage will join those already operating on the group's twice weekly tourist train, The Cockatoo Run.

That train traverses the Illawarra line through Sutherland Shire, picking up passengers at Hurstville and Sutherland railway stations before weaving through the Royal National Park and skirting the spectacular coastline on the way to Robertson in the Southern Highlands.

"The train consists of fully restored 1930's carriages, offering spectacular coastal scenery before climbing 600 metres through rainforests, past waterfalls and across the spectacular viaduct during the ascent of the Illawarra Escarpment,'' Todd said.

Anyone can book to go on The Cockatoo Run train by calling 1300653801.

Details: www.3801limited.com.au  and to volunteer for restorations follow the links to `Eveleigh Work Days'.

Source: http://stgeorge.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/train-tragics-heritage-project-on-track/1438443.aspx