Outback Xplorer
| Outback Xplorer | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Service type | Passenger train |
| Status | Operational |
| First service | March 1996 |
| Current operator(s) | NSW TrainLink |
| Route | |
| Start | Sydney |
| End | Broken Hill |
| Distance travelled | 1,150 kilometres |
| Average journey time | 13 hours |
| Service frequency | weekly |
| Line used |
Main Western Broken Hill |
| Technical | |
| Rolling stock | Xplorer |
The Outback Xplorer is an Australian passenger train operated by NSW TrainLink between Sydney and Broken Hill via the Main Western line.
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 at December 2013 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 20 October 2013