The Puffing Billy Railway is considered by most to be Australia's Premier Tourist Railway. Located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, about 30 minutes from my home, the railway operates every day of the year (except Christmas Day) and, to the best of my knowledge, runs the only daily scheduled double headed steam passenger train in the world.

The railway is currently rebuilding a Beyer Peacock Garratt, G42, and as a fund raising venture had a "Members BBQ and Photo Session" at Belgrave during December 2000.

There were three of the Baldwin 2-6-2T Na class locos in steam (the fourth had left on the "Night Train" at 7pm, just before I arrived) plus the wood- burning Climax 1694.

As well as the locos in steam, G42 was positioned with its front tank out of the workshops.

I took along my digital camera for a few quick "snaps" - the 35mm was set up on the tripod - so some of the later photos here show signs of camera shake. However, they are presented to show those who missed out just what they missed out on.

As dusk turned to dark, I found myself in the cab of the Climax, where I remained for the rest of the night. This loco is now out of its "boiler ticket" and is not going to run again until funds and time are found to remove the boiler, have it inspected and repaired - or even replaced.

Enjoy the photos.