Outback Xplorer
The Outback Xplorer is an Australian passenger train operated by NSW TrainLink between Sydney and Broken Hill via the Main Western line.
Overview | |
---|---|
Service type | Passenger train |
Status | Operational |
First service | March 1996 |
Current operator(s) | NSW TrainLink |
Route | |
Start | Sydney |
End | Broken Hill |
Distance travelled | 1,125 kilometres |
Average journey time | 13 hours |
Service frequency | weekly |
Line(s) used | Main Western Broken Hill |
Technical | |
Rolling stock | Xplorer |
History
CountryLink commenced operating the service in March 1996 honouring a commitment by the Carr State Government to reintroduce a rail service to Broken Hill which had lost its rail service when the Silver City Comet was replaced by a road coach service in November 1989.[1] Although not its official name, it is known as the Outback Express.
It was initially formed of 1940s vintage locomotive hauled HUB/RUB carriages.[2] In April 2000, the service ceased due to the condition of the carriages.[3]
After a short break, the service resumed with Xplorer railcars. As of May 2015, it operates to Broken Hill on Mondays, returning on Tuesdays.[4]
References
- "The Official Last Comet" Railway Digest February 1990 page 55
- "Countrylink's 'new' Daylight Express cars" Railway Digest February 1996 page 40
- "CountryLink Loco-Hauled Services Cancelled" Railway Digest May 2000 page 7
- "Western timetable". NSW Trainlink. 7 September 2019.