Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum

Transcription

1 Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum (Above: Locomotive 5364 simmers aboard the Turntable at Valley Heights Source: ARHS (NSWRRC (Ted Skinner Collection) Celebrating the Past, Envisioning the Future A Celebration of 100 years of service to the Blue Mountains Community This document serves to introduce the reader to the Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum and its future with a particular emphasis on the celebrations being organized to commemorate the Depot s Centenary in January 2014 and beyond.

2 Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum (Blue Mountains Division NSW Rail Transport Museum) Business Plan of the Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum the Centenary Celebrations planned for January 2014 and our Future. 17b Tusculum Road Valley Heights NSW 2777 Postal Address: PO Box 484, Springwood NSW 2777 Phone: Andrew Tester Publicity Manager & Centenary Committee Convener 15 th April 2013 Copyright All rights reserved.

3 I. Introduction 1. Museum Introduction 2. Mission Statement 3. Company Structure 4. Membership 5. Target Audience 6. Target Market(s) 7. Current Opportunity 8. Projection of Business Future 9. Financial Summary Table of Contents II. Centenary Celebrations Plan 1. Committee 2. Calendar of Events 3. Project Details III. Marketing Strategy 1. Promotion 2. Pricing Strategy IV. Financial Plan 1. Product and Service 2. Funding Source(s) Our own Financial Reserves Grants Sponsorships 3. Sponsorships V. Future Plans - Beyond 2014 Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations - Event Calendar Appendix B: A Big Event calls for a Big Attraction Help bring Australia largest operating Steam Locomotive to the Mountains Appendix C: Developing our Museum What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Appendix D: Our Railway & Depot History Brief Railway History Depot History Appendix E: The Valley Heights Steam Tramway Appendix F: Museum Activities in Picture

4 I. Introduction 1. Museum Introduction The Museum is a Not for Profit Organization which relies solely on the resources of our volunteers to develop and operate the Museum in its current capacity. The Museum was formed entirely by local community members who were aware of the historical significance that the Locomotive Depot holds in the Blue Mountains with: i. the operation of the railway line, and ii. the role it played in the employment of locals. Concerned about the immediate future for the Depot, upon the announcement of its closure in 1988, the kindred group was formed to explore options and lobby authorities to secure the future of the Depot. A History of the Railway and the Locomotive Depot is captured in Appendix D. 2. Mission Statement To preserve the Valley Heights Locomotive Depot (including the Roundhouse, Ancillary buildings and the Railway Heritage of the Blue Mountains) and provide historical, educational, recreational facilities and opportunities for the benefit of the Blue Mountains community and visitors to the region. 3. Company Structure The Museum is incorporated through its association with the New South Wales Rail Transport Museum (ABN: ), as its Blue Mountains Division. The Blue Mountains Division is managed by an Executive Committee which is elected by its local membership base. The Executive Committee of the Blue Mountains Division is responsible for the day to day management and operation of the Valley Heights site and reports directly to the Board of Directors of the parent organization, the New South Wales Rail Transport Museum. The Executive Committee of the Blue Mountains Division meets monthly and usually has a representative of the Board of Directors of the New South Wales Rail Transport Museum in attendance at these meetings. 4. Membership There are two levels of Membership available to any member of the community, upon payment of a Membership fee. o o Full Membership is obtained through joining the New South Wales Rail Transport Museum and entitles the Members to a broad range of benefits. Associate Membership is the local membership to the Valley Heights Museum ONLY. Associate Members receive a local Museum Newsletter and are entitled to Free unlimited Museum Access on Open Days. During the 2012 Membership year the total number of Associate (Local) Members on the Museum s books stood at 138. (70 Full Members and 68 Associate Members). Full or Associate Members can perform volunteer work for the Museum. However, it is preferred that those performing volunteer work obtain Full Membership.

5 5. Target Audience This document is targeted towards gaining local support and assistance with particular emphasis on the Centenary Celebrations and the future development of the Museum. Our Target Audience includes (but is not limited to): Local Members of Parliament and their constituents (State and Federal) levels. Government Authorities (Local, State and Federal) levels. Local Businesses. Local Chamber of Commerce. Tourist Operators. Local and Broader Media outlets. Local Service Clubs (Rotary, Apex and Lions). Powerhouse Museum. 6. Target Market(s) Our Customers are: Local Residents. Local Business holders. Local and Broader Tourist Operators. Passing Day Visitors to the Blue Mountains. Local and Broader Media outlets. 7. Current Opportunity A number of opportunities present themselves to our Museum if guidance can be given to investigate and explore some of the challenges the Museum currently faces. The Museum has the ability to become the major tourist attraction on the Lower Blue Mountains. Our biggest opportunity is our Locality adjacent to the Great Western Highway and Railway, being served by hourly trains services to and from the Sydney CBD. Most tourist attractions in the Blue Mountains require visitors to divert away from the major channel (Great Western Highway) to access them. Our venue is not only visible to the passing visitor but access to it requires only a slight diversion off the highway. Currently the Museum is opened on a limited capacity due mainly because of our need to rely on volunteers to staff the Museum on Open Days. These volunteers are the same volunteers each open day and they have other commitments outside the Museum. While visibility is not a problem, roadside signage is due to our limited hours of operation. The Museum presently has no financial capabilities to employ staff to be able to expand on its hours of operation. Should the opportunity arise to enable the employment of staff, the Museum will be able to expand its hours of operation and potentially benefit from roadside signage.

6 8. Projection of Business Future Located within a World Heritage listed National Park, the Blue Mountains attracts and captures one of the largest tourism markets in New South Wales and Australia. Much of this Tourism traffic passes right past the Museum site on their way to the already well known and established tourist attractions in the upper Blue Mountains. Although there is not as much for the tourist in the lower Blue Mountains compared to the upper region, our aim is to attract more tourist traffic to what is available in the lower Blue Mountains and encourage more passing trade to those attractions and local business houses. 9. Financial Summary Occasions such as Centenary celebrations are rare. To stage an event of this magnitude requires sound financial support from all sources. This is an event to benefit the broader Blue Mountains Community and requires financial support. This is an opportunity for the business houses within the community to endorse and support a special occasion. 1. Total amount of funds sought for venture: $200, Total amount of estimated startup costs: $50, The above costs and the costs contained in the Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations Events Calendar are estimates to host the Centenary. Projects associated with the Centenary and beyond. Projects to enhance the future development include: Replacement of the perimeter Security Fence around the Museum complex and Signal Box. Construction of a small Platform to allow the safe boarding and disembarking of passengers off visiting trains. Signage for Exhibits. Construction of a small platform at the Signal Box Terminus to allow the safe boarding and disembarking of passengers on the Museum s Steam Tramway. At this point in time the only project above that has been recently quoted is the replacement of the perimeter Security Fence ($200, in 2012), however a new quote would be required. All other projects will be quoted as and when interest is expressed.

7 II. Centenary Celebrations - Plan 1. Committee The Centenary Planning Committee was formed in 2010 with the first meeting being held on Saturday 5 th June The Committee comprises of 12 volunteers from the: Museum s Executive Committee. Museum s Membership base that cannot normally volunteer their time, but have indicated their willingness to contribute to this important event. Representatives from the Springwood Historical Society. Representatives of the Steam Tram & Railway Preservation the operators of the Valley Heights Steam Tramway. 2. Calendar of Events A proposed Calendar of Events has been drafted (which is Subject to Change). A brief summary of the Proposed Events are listed in Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations Events Calendar. The events listed are subject to change, as a number of factors will determine the feasibility of the Event s success. These include but are not limited to: Costs. Funding to support the costs. Availability of Locomotives and Rollingstock. 3. Project Details We also have a list of projects, which we would welcome assistance both financially and with labour. These projects include: The construction of a platform to allow passengers to safely disembark from, and board onto visiting trains. The construction of a small platform and re-erection perimeter fencing at the Signal Box Terminus. Acquisition of Exhibit Signage. Replacement of Perimeter Security Fence III. Marketing Strategy We acknowledge that we need to sell the Centenary Celebrations and the Museum to the community. This includes local business holders, schools, residents, railway enthusiasts and the broader community. Apart from the costly expense of advertising through the media, we will embrace technology through the Internet and social media network, via our Website and Facebook, as a modern means of Marketing.

8 1. Promotion Special Events are planned to broaden the community s awareness in the lead up to the Celebrations. A series of Community Awareness days will be held during the second half of 2013 where invited guests from the local business houses and teachers from local schools can attend a 3 hour session comprising of a Powerpoint Presentation, Morning or Afternoon Tea and a Guided tour of the Museum. 2. Pricing Strategy The aim for all events is to price them so that they are affordable for the broader community. This will largely be determined by the community's response to financially supporting Events. IV. Financial Plan 1. Product and Service Pricing To achieve a successful event it is important that our products and services are priced competitively at the same time being affordable to the broader market. 2. Funding Source(s) The key sources of funding the Museum is exploring are through: Our own Financial Reserves - The Museum s main source of income is through Admission Charges and Retail Sales collected from the visiting public on open days and via Donations from our membership base. These funds however also have to cover the day to day overheads (Electricity, Water, Security, etc.) before consideration can be given to expending our own reserves. As a result, The Museum s own financial resources are limited and can only be applied where affordability can be accommodated. Grants - The Museum has been successful in obtaining Government Assistance in the past and has indeed secured funding to assist in work associated with the Centenary. It should be noted that both the current Local members have secured funds totaling over $50, for the Museum to apply to projects. o Louise Markus (Federal Member for Macquarie) - secured a grant for $20, through the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Pollution and Communities under the Your Community Heritage grant scheme. This is to be invested in the development of a permanent exhibition that tells the story of the Depot during the peak time of its operation the 1950s. This will include a working diorama of the depot and story boards depicting certain aspects to the depot during this time. The purpose of this display is to educate todays visitors through stories and in miniature scale model of the Depot so as to give them and understanding on the Depot s purpose before they step into the Museum and see the Depot first hand. This display will be supported by written literature that can be taken away by the visitor. o Roza Sage (Member for Blue Mountains) - secured a grant for $30, through the Community Building Partnership Program (2011) which is to be used to reconstruct a shed to house the Museum s Heritage Fire Truck and all its Fire Protection Equipment. Sponsorships - Sponsorship will be a key ingredient to not only the success of the Centenary Celebrations but also whether certain events and projects planned for the Centenary actually occur. This is where the Local community can assist.

9 3. Sponsorships The Centenary of the Valley Heights Locomotive Depot is a significant milestone for this historic landmark. A program of events has been planned to celebrate this occasion aimed at promoting the local region and bringing tourists to the Blue Mountains. Funding to support such a significant occasion cannot be supported by the Museum s financial reserves solely. Financial assistance would be required to ensure the viability and success for the region. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the community to support. Financial support can be pledged to support a specific Centenary Event or to a project to enhance the future development of the Museum. How can you help? The opportunity of sponsorship assists in giving financial support towards a specific project or event associated with the Centenary and beyond. The Financial Plan above outlines what we as a Museum are contributing towards the event as well as details of Grants already received towards projects. The community can assist with financial support via an appropriate level of sponsorship and can nominate to allocate their sponsorship towards a specific event. For details of our proposed events please refer to the Proposed Event Calendar - (see Appendix A). Funds received via Sponsorship will be deposited into a Centenary Bank Account to keep them separate from the General Museum funds. Should insufficient funding be held to support an event resulting in the events cancellation, Sponsors will be contacted in advance to discuss options including, redirecting your financial assistance towards another event or even reimbursement of your financial support. The Sponsorship Levels and their benefits are summarized below. LEVEL FINANCIAL SUPPORT BENEFIT Community Sponsor 0 - $1999 Newsletter Advertisement (1 year) Honorary Membership (1 year) Invite to Opening Ceremony Diesel (Bronze) $ $3999 Invite to Opening Ceremony Website Sponsor Listing Newsletter Advertisement (1 year) Honorary Membership (1 year) Electric (Silver) $ $6999 Acknowledgement at Opening Ceremony Invite to Opening Ceremony Newsletter Advertisement (2 years) Honorary Membership (2 years) Complimentary Tickets (Continued next page)

10 LEVEL FINANCIAL SUPPORT BENEFIT Steam (Gold) Valley Heights Loco Depot (Platinum) $ $9999 Acknowledgement at Opening Ceremony Invite to Opening Ceremony Newsletter Advertisement (3 years) Honorary Membership (3 years) Tickets aboard Official Train Complimentary Tickets Shuttle Train(s) $ Acknowledgement at Opening Ceremony Invite to Opening Ceremony Newsletter Advertisement (5 years) Honorary Membership (5 years) Tickets aboard Official Train Complimentary Tickets Shuttle Train(s) Internal Advertising V. Future Plans 2014 & Beyond Securing the future of our Heritage is critical for future generations. Our volunteer members have contributed 25 years of their time and money to rejuvenate what was once an unloved derelict site into a site of historical significance. The value of volunteer labour contributed by our volunteers in this time would equate to millions with thousands of hours being logged. In 1988 at the time of its closure as an operating railway workshop, the Locomotive Depot and its associated infrastructure was very much showing the signs of 75 years continuous service. The buildings were in poor condition and required major reconstruction due mainly to many years of poor maintenance, major termite activity and heavy vandalism. Such is the importance of the railway and its connection with the Blue Mountains and the township of Valley Heights, the entire railway yard and depot complex at Valley Heights (from the Green Parade over bridge at the eastern end of the station to the 100 year old Roundhouse), have been recognized as a site of State Heritage significance and as such are now Heritage listed. This encompasses the former Signal Box, Station, Ash Tunnel and associated de-ashing pits, turntable, roundhouse and associated buildings. Many of the locomotives and items of rollingstock, which form an integral part of the Museum s unique collection of railway exhibits have also been included on the State Heritage listing. Currently the Museum is only open in a limited capacity but it would be ideal to open on a more regular basis to suit the growing tourist market to the Blue Mountains Region.

11 Our 2012 Visitors The graph below illustrates our visitor statistics on the number of visitors to our Museum during It should be noted that the actual number will be higher than what is captured as our visitors were not surveyed between January and March, except for our Roaring 20s Event in February. It should also be noted that we are only open to the public in a limited capacity, on average two Sundays a month. As of December 2012, the Museum averaged 152 visitors per month. The total visitor numbers captured passing through our gates that were surveyed totaled 1832 for the 2012 calendar year Visitor Numbers Number of Visitors Feb 222 Apr 180 May 113 Jun 205 Jul 175 Aug 225 Sep 190 Oct 198 Nov 218 Dec Jan 0 Mar 0 Months How our visitors found out about us. Surveys of our customer base over the last twelve months have indicated some surprising results around how they have found out about us. Graphed below are the top 10 customer responses to how they found out about us. Signage (which is displayed only on the days we are open) is no surprise to score the highest. Electronic medium such as the Internet/Facebook is no doubt the way of the future and scores well. What is encouraging is visitors stating they have been referred by Family & Friends or are Return Visitors ranking in the Top 10 scores.

12 30.0 How our Visitors found out about us - Top % by Source Source - (No. of Responses) Our customers are surveyed on every open day and these surveys tell interesting stories about the origin of our customers and how they find out about us. We can also tell where we need to focus our publicity in the future. Left: Group visits from Seniors Groups, Car Clubs and School Excursions are an integral market, which we want to capture more of in the future.

13 Yearly Sponsorship Agreements The future of this important piece of local history cannot solely be dependent on the Museum s dedicated band of volunteers. The future success of the Community s museum will require a strong working relationship between the broader community and our volunteers to ensure the Museum remains sustainable into the future. This can be achieved through ongoing financial assistance. A sustainable working relationship with the broader community is necessary in order for this historic venture to continue into the future and develop itself as the major tourist attraction on the lower Blue Mountains. By entering into a Yearly Sponsorship Agreement your business will be recognized in a number of ways depending on the level of Sponsorship committed. Benefits can include Internal Advertising to free entry for Company / Business employees on Museum Open days. YEARLY SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENTS BENEFIT Recognized on the Museum s Sponsorship Webpage Internal Advertising Opportunity to Hire the site for a special Company Event. Free Entry for company staff on Museum Open Days. Up to $1000 O Greater than $1000 A Yearly Sponsorship Agreement with the Museum will offer some security to assist the Museum in its future endeavours and develop the site into a superior attraction offering a valuable experience for our customers. The security of the site and the Museum s assets is a high priority for upgrading but is beyond the Museum s current financial resources. Yes, we are trying to secure the site, through funding a back to base alarm system to protect the Roundhouse building and its contents. However, it s the exterior perimeter boundary fencing, which is in much need of replacement. The existing fencing was constructed in 1994 from second hand chain wire mesh and posts with barbed wire. This fence, has served its purpose over the last 20 years. It is easily penetrated by unwanted intruders who leave a trail of damage, which is left for the Museum s volunteers to clean up at the Museum s expense. It is no longer suitable in meeting the needs of protecting this important piece of the Blue Mountains Heritage. Approaches have been made to source funding through grants for this project, without success.

14 Conclusion We entrust that this provides you with an insight into the immediate and long term future of this Museum. The year 2014 holds a significant place in the history for the Locomotive Depot, the town of Valley Heights and the entire Blue Mountains community. Enclosed with this document is a letter inviting you to an onsite introduction to the Museum. We hope you can see your way clear, to be able attend one of these Introduction Days and to support us with our Centenary Celebrations and for our long-term future.

15 Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations - Event Calendar Proposed Event Calendar / 2014 (Subject to Change) Month Event Description Detail Estimated Event Cost 1 December 2013 Members Pre - Centenary Event Dates: Sat 14/12 & Sun 15/12 Open opening designated for Museum members (VH & RTM). Possible RTM Volunteers Barbeque. Funded from Museum Sources 2 January 2014 Local Community Pre Centenary Celebration Date: Sunday 26/1 (Australia Day) 3 Official Opening Dates: Fri 31/1, Sat 1/2 & Sun 2/2 Regular Open Day Free Entry Promotion for Locals Only due to Australia Day. Museum Official Opening and Official Opening of Centenary Celebrations Invitation Only Free Entry for Local Residents upon presentation of Driver s License / Rates Notice RTM to provide Official Train. (Possible Steam but likely to be Diesel Fri 31/1 only Consist to include Pullman Cars). Funded from Museum Sources $25, February 2014 Trains, Trams & T s Dates: Sat 1/2 & Sun 2/2 (+) Roaring 20s Event Trains Trams & T s Historical Society Displays Local Event held in conjunction with the Roaring 20s Festival on the Blue Mountains. Funded from Museum Sources 5 Railway Film Weekend Dates: Sat 15/2 & Sun 16/2 Historic NSW & Australian Railway Films to be screened at Glenbrook Theatre. Still to be Confirmed. Subject to venue availability. $5, March 2014 # Steam Tour (LVR & PHM) Date: Sun 30/3 Double 32 class Tour using 3237 & (Alternative Motive Power 5917). Still to be Confirmed. Letter sent to LVR Subject to availability of LVR Steam locomotive. $25, April 2014 # 8 May 2014 # Steam Tour (ARHS-ACT) Date: Sat 17/5 Tour to Valley Heights using Still to be Confirmed. Letter sent to ARHS (ACT). Contact made with Peter Reynell ARHS ( ) Follow Up sent $40,000.00

16 Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations - Event Calendar (continued) Proposed Event Calendar / 2014 (Subject to Change) Month Event Description Detail Estimated Event Cost 9 May 2014 # Steam School Shuttles Date to be Confirmed: Week commencing 12/5 Mid Week Shuttle Services for Local Schools. Valley Heights / Penrith / Valley Heights Still to be Confirmed. Letter sent to ARHS (ACT). Contact made with Peter Reynell ARHS ( ) $20, June 2014 # The Fish (Re-enactment) Date: Sat 14/ Mt Victoria to Sydney & Return Passengers lunch at Doyles Seafood Restaurant Still to be Confirmed. RTM not available due to other seasonal commitments. Reliant on another Heritage operator to provide at least one train potentially doubling costs. $25, The Chips (Re-enactment) Date: Sat 14/ Valley Heights to Sydney & Return Passengers lunch at Doyles Seafood Restaurant Still to be Confirmed. RTM not available due to other seasonal commitments. Reliant on another Heritage operator to provide at least one train potentially doubling costs. $25, July 2014 # Steam Tour Vintage Train Date: Sun 6/7 RTM 1709 & ARHS (ACT) 1210 and Pullman Train Still to be Confirmed. Subject to Locomotive availability. Letter sent to ARHS (ACT). Contact made with Peter Reynell ARHS ( ) $25, Model Railway Exhibition and Modeling Workshops Dates: Sat 12/7 & Sun 13/7 Venue Springwood Boys & Girls Club Gymnasium Still to be Confirmed. Subject to venue suitability and availability. $5, October 2014 World War 1 Centenary Event Involvement from Local Historical Societies, BMACHO, Possible RSL and Victoria Barracks involvement. RTM to bring train of Sydney passengers to VH. - Possible Troop Train. $20,000.00

17 Appendix A: Centenary Celebrations - Key # RTM cannot commit to operations from March to June due to pre-existing seasonal commitments some of these events during these months are doubtful. RTM have committed to providing a train for those Events in Bold font. As per and discussions with Daniel Page NSWRTM Monday 23/7/2012. (+) Dates likely to change due to possibly change to the Roaring 20s Festival in This may have a roll on effect with other events planned for February in particular the Opening weekend. Key to Acronyms: RTM NSW Rail Transport Museum LVR Lachlan Valley Railway Society PHM Powerhouse Museum ARHS (ACT) Australian Railway Historical Society (ACT Division)

18 Appendix B: A Big Event calls for a Big Attraction Beyer Garratt Steam Locomotive No: 6029 In 1952 the first of the 60 class Beyer Garratts entered service for the then NSW Government Railways. Forty two members of this class of locomotive were ordered and built for the railways. The Garratts were a heavy freight locomotive which were ideal for main line and branch line traffic working. Locomotive 6029 is one of four members of this class to survive the scrappers torches and enjoy life in preservation. Since the last time this locomotive was steamed, 6029 has been resting quietly in the nations capital, however, in 2008 work commenced restoring the locomotive to steam once again. Work is scheduled to be completed on the restoration in late An opportunity exists for us to bring this locomotive for first time in 32 years, for our special occasion. Be part of the excitement. (See Events 8 & 9 May 2014 Proposed Events Calendar). Help us bring what will be the largest operating Steam Locomotive in the Southern Hemisphere back to the Mountains. Vital facts about locomotive Class: 60 Number in Class: 42 Builder: Beyer Peacock Built: 1954 Length: 105 ft Weight: 260 tonnes Boiler Pressure: 200psi Withdrawn: Sept Above: Locomotive 6029 last visited the Mountains in In the scenes above 6029 is pictured at Valley Heights on tour for the Australian Railway Historical Society (ACT Division). Photos: Andrew Tester Collection.

19 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Roundhouse Rear Wall and Windows The rear wall of the Roundhouse Building before, during and at completion of restoration. Years of neglect, little or no maintenance and termite infestations has resulted in the rear wall being largely reconstructed. All window sashes were reconstructed and reglazed with over 300 panes of safety glass. Prior to restoration of the windows only 1 pane of glass remained which had not been broken.

20 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Roundhouse Roof Restoration In November 1994, just four months after securing legal tenancy of the site gale force winds damaged 70% of the top clerestory section of the Roundhouse Roof. Museum volunteers carried out the repairs using limited funding and reusing original materials. The work was carried out from on top of the building and within.

21 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Former Amenities Building The Amenities Building housed workers Mealroom, Lockers, Bathroom facilities and now forms our Visitor Entrance with Shop & Dining as well as a Model Railway and soon a Visitor Orientation Exhibit. This building has been entirely restored with Museum funding and volunteer labour.

22 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Former Amenities Building This building, along with every building on site was extensively damaged by termites and unwelcome vandals. Most of this damage occurred in the years between the Depot s closure and the time the Museum took legal tenancy of the site. These pictures show the building in its damaged state as acquired and illustrates the amount of work undertaken by Museum volunteers to restore the building externally.

23 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Former Chargeman s or District Locomotive Engineer s (DLE s) Building The Chargeman s Building was occupied by the Depot s Chargeman who was In Charge of the Depot s day to day operations. Staff Rostering, work allocation and train operations were managed by the Chargeman from this building. This building was modified over the years to meet the changing needs of the depot s operations. This building has been restored back to its former glory with its covered verandah.

24 Appendix C: Developing our Museum - What our Volunteers have achieved in pictures. Former Chargeman s or District Locomotive Engineer s (DLE s) Building These pictures show this building prior to commencement and during conservation work. As with all the buildings the work was undertaken in a voluntary capacity by the Museum s Retirees Group. The building now displays a collection of Railway Art and small exhibits.

25 Appendix D: Our Railway & Depot History 1. Brief Railway History When Governor Lachlan Macquarie commissioned explorers Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth to pave away across what was previously thought to be the impregnable Blue Mountains in 1813, their route would largely lead the way for the alignment that William Cox s Road would follow in Some 53 years later in 1867 the original railway line was laid across the Blue Mountains following much of explorers route from Blaxland west. The original railway line, a single bi-directional track catering for trains both ascending and descending the Blue Mountains was a significant improvement to the existing road. (Left: The road and railway line crossed at several locations on its climb up the Mountains. In this scene, the road can be seen crossing the railway adjacent to The Valley platform. At The Valley (now Valley Heights) the road crossed the railway line at two locations. Photo: VHLDHM Collection). Trains ascending the climb over the Blue Mountains required the assistance of a second locomotive. This was originally attached upon arrival at Penrith. Rail transportation quickly became increasingly popular for both freight and passengers. The single track line soon became inefficient in its operation and the railway authorities had to find an alternative route to both duplicate and ease the gradient of the line. This was achieved with the re-construction of the line via the Glenbrook Gorge on the Eastern Escarpment and the construction of the Ten Tunnel Deviation through the Western Escarpment. Both these resulted in the decommissioning of the Single Line Zig Zag operations at Lapstone and Lithgow. As a result of the Glenbrook Gorge deviation the gradient of the line between Penrith and Valley Heights was eased allowing west bound trains to proceed beyond Penrith without the need for an assistant locomotive to be attached to the front of the train. However due to the narrow ridge line that is shared by the railway line and the highway, an alternative route for the railway line was not possible and easing of the gradient west of Valley Heights could not be achieved. As a result assistant locomotives were still required from Valley Heights to Katoomba. Hence the establishment of the Depot at Valley Heights. 2. Depot History Valley Heights Locomotive Depot was constructed in 1913 as part of the duplication of the Western Railway Line. The depot was ready for service on the 24 th December 1913 and officially opened on 26 th January The depot housed the locomotives that were used to pilot (assist) trains up the steep section from Valley Heights to Katoomba, The engines at Valley Heights not only piloted over the longest distance in NSW, but also had the envious distinction of having to operate over the longest continual and most steeply graded mainline in Australasia. The section from Valley Heights

26 to Katoomba, a distance of 20 miles 16 chains (32.7km) has a ruling grade of 1 in 33, rose a total of 2,200 feet (670 metres), the gradients varying from 1 in 60 to the steepest of 1 in 31. During the steam era the depot had a continual allotment of eight D50 or D53 class standard goods engines for piloting duties and generally two C32 class engines for passenger trains emanating from Valley Heights, one such train being "The Chips". The pilot engine on arrival at Katoomba would be detached from the train, turn on the turntable and return, light engine back to Valley Heights where it would be rostered for further duties. During the peak of the steam era an average of 30 trains during any 24-hour period required piloting from Valley Heights. Electrification of the western line beyond Penrith began in the mid 1950's with the section to Valley Heights being completed on the 23rd October The 2nd of February 1957 saw the end of steam operations from Valley Heights. From that day on, all steam hauled trains, both freight and passenger were electrically assisted to Katoomba, until complete electrification saw steam removed from the scene. Following the introduction of electrification, Valley Heights Depot was still required for supplying locomotives employed for assisting duties and a few locomotive hauled passenger trains (e.g. the local school trains) and freight trains, using the 46 class electric locomotives. The depot consisted of a locomotive yard, 10 bay roundhouse, 18metre (60ft) turntable, an elevated coal stage, water tanks and columns and provided pilot (assistant) engines for trains travelling to Katoomba and beyond. Pilot engines were placed in the lead of the train (through) engine over a given section of track. (Above: View of the Roundhouse, Turntable and Ancillary Buildings while a Steam Locomotive performs some shunting in the right of the picture circa Photo: VHLDHM Collection). The roundhouse was constructed with timber superstructure and corrugated iron roofing and wall cladding. The roof was originally clad with asbestos slates, then replaced with corrugated fibro asbestos sheeting and finally replaced with corrugated iron sheeting in the early 1980's. The Roundhouse has 10 roads, all serviced with inspection pits (some of which have since been filled in),

27 smoke hoods being fitted to the rear portion of the roof, as all engines were stabled engine first in the shed. The smoke hoods were demolished after electrification of the western line. A drop pit was installed in road 9, again this has since been filled in. Access to the 10 roads from the arrival road was by means of the hand-operated turntable. The depot was the third roundhouse depot built, following Singleton and Port Waratah (both since demolished), making it now the oldest roundhouse still standing in the NSW, and possibly Australia. Coal was stored in an elevated coal stage with a capacity of 400 tons. This coal stage was in the form of a timber storage bin, supported on a timber trestle. Coal was located in the storage bin by coal hoppers, which were hauled from the coal storage siding onto the coal road then propelled up onto the coal bin by means of a switchback from the coal road onto the elevator road. The coal stage was dismantled in the early 1960's. Watering facilities were supplied from the railway water storage dam at Wentworth Falls. The water from the dam was fed into a railway concrete water reservoir at Lawson, and then gravitated down to Valley Heights by means of a water pipeline located beside the railway line. An overhead water filler was located in the depot yard adjacent to the coal elevator, 2 quick fill parachute water tanks were also located at the western end of Valley Heights station between the down main and down refuge. De-ashing facilities were provided at the Sydney end of the yard. Inspection pits were provided in the arrival and departure roads. A tunnel ran beneath both these roads and out into the adjoining gully. A hole was located in the inspection pits above the tunnel. Rails and a hand-operated trolley were located in the tunnel. On the arrival of an engine the ash would be removed from the locomotive down into the inspection pit, then down through the hole into the hand operated trolley. The trolley was then pushed through the tunnel and out into the gully where the ash was then deposited. In latter years an ash siding was installed and the ash was dumped into "S" trucks and removed for further use. An elevated signal box controlled the lines in Valley Heights Station yard and into the depot. Throw over point levers controlled the lines once inside the depot. The signal box was of brick construction with a timber top, which housed the 48 levers, frames, etc. It was necessary for the signal box to be elevated for visual purposes for the signalman. The top timber level was destroyed during the 1951 bushfire and the levers, frames etc. were relocated inside the remaining brick structure at ground level. With this modification the signalman's vision was lost and a PA system was installed throughout the depot and yard for communication with train crews. The signal box was closed in December 1995 with the signal upgrade on the Mountains. (Right: The original three storey Signal Box. All train movements were controlled from the top storey until December 1951 when bushfires destroyed the top storey sending the 48 levels and frames which controlled train operations, crashing to the ground floor. Photo: VHLDHM Collection).

28 A DLE's office and Drivers sign on building was provided adjacent to the roundhouse and an Amenities building was located in the centre of the depot precinct. Other facilities provided were a sand store, locomotive store and general store. During the steam days, approximately 80 staff were employed at the depot. The depot in latter years was basically a very efficient freight wagon and electric Locomotive repair workshop, the 46 class electric engines receiving minor repairs and complete overhauls at the depot. A variety of freight wagons were also repaired at the depot. The demise of Valley Heights depot began when through working of freight trains commenced. From the mid 1980's the number of trains requiring piloting from Valley Heights had been reduced to a handful each day, the number of locomotives required for this duty being reduced to only 3, sometimes as few as 2 engines being necessary. With the announcement of the closure of Valley Heights depot by the Government in October 1988, the depot was gradually closed and equipment removed. The Depot finally closed on 15 th December One electric locomotive was kept available for any pilot work that may be on offer. The drivers signed on at Springwood station. The end occurring during the last week of April 1989 when electric locomotive 4610 had the distinction of operating the last train to be piloted from Valley Heights to Katoomba. And so a milestone in NSW railway history had ceased operation and had faded into history ending 75 years of continuous service with the railways. While the Government of the day had ended the Depot s life as an operational workshop, plans were gathering momentum to explore options to secure its future as a Museum. Thanks to the efforts of the local community over the last 25 years, Museum volunteers have invested countless hours and dollars towards conserving the site to make it available to the boarder community. It proudly stands today as a 100 year old landmark, that the Blue Mountains can justifiably be proud of. The Museum and its volunteers are now calling on the community to assist in celebrating the 100 th Anniversary of the Locomotive Depot. Left: An early view of the Valley Heights Roundhouse. Taken in 1929 after being judged winner to the Annual Garden Competition.

29 Appendix E: The Valley Heights Steam Tramway The Valley Heights Steam Tramway is operated by the members of the Steam Tram and Railway Preservation Society Co-operative Limited (STARPS) ABN: in conjunction with the Museum. Like the Museum, STARPS is a voluntary, non-profit organisation. STARPS were one of the first active railway preservation groups in Australia being formed in June 1954 with the aim of preserving and operating an example of a Sydney Steam Tram. They were successful in preserving Steam Tram Motor 103A. Because of the historical significance the Steam Tram had with Parramatta, the society established a base and operated a small tramway within Parramatta Park. Initially operations began as a demonstration for interested spectators from 1956 but it wasn t until the early 1960 s that a passenger service commenced within the park. This service operated successfully up until June 1993, when tragic circumstances saw the Society s complex within Parramatta Park being burned to the ground on the evening of the 7 th June This resulted in much of the society s historic collection being totally destroyed or severely damaged. Following the fire the Society s future was in doubt. Negotiations to re-establish within Parramatta Park were unsuccessful and unless a new home could be found from which the Society could rebuild, what remained of their collection would have had to have been dispersed and the Society dissolved. In the years following the fire the Society explored several locations as possible new homes, without success. It was not until 1997 that the Society was invited to Valley Heights to explore the possibility of re-establishing and operating the steam tram in conjunction with the Museum. Since this time the Society have painstakingly rebuilt and restored the historic Steam Tram Motor 103A (circa 1891) and Steam Tram Trailer Car 93B (circa 1880), which has been operating on Museum Open Days since September Tram Motor 103A is one of only three remaining examples of a Sydney Steam and is currently the only operating one of the three remaining Steam Trams. Although the Steam Tram has no past historical significance to Valley Heights or the Blue Mountains region, the Society s inability to rebuild at their former home has become Parramatta s loss and the Blue Mountains gain. Above Left: 103A in service at its former home in Parramatta Park prior to the fire. Right: Passing Steam Locomotive CPC2 at its new home in Valley Heights.

30 Appendix F: Museum Activities in Pictures Students on School Excursions study Transport. Our Annual Christmas Event - Santa and his Elf visit twice each year since The Roaring 20 s Festival Trains Trams & T s Event and a Wedding. Visiting Locomotives on tour trains use the depot for servicing and an operational base.

31 Notes: