As they stood in the shadow of the heritage 1960s 621/721 class rail motor at Grafton City Station, volunteers from the Rail Motor Society reflected with heartfelt pride and passion on the unequivocal diligence and resoluteness of their ongoing work which enabled local railway enthusiasts to experience the sensation of travelling in historic style over the weekend.
Based in the Hunter Valley village of Paterson, the Rail Motor Society operated several sold-out tourist trains between Grafton, Casino, and the Border Loop from May 23-26, with a number of passengers utilising the service to journey to and from Casino during Casino Beef Week 2024, which was held between May 18-26.
It was also a timely attraction with the 63-year-old 621/721 class rail motor visiting the Clarence Valley during National Volunteer Week, May 20-26.
“It is incorrect to say our trains run on fuel as it is merely consumable, they run on the work and tireless dedication of our volunteers,” said President of the Rail Motor Society Rod Short.
“We have just over 200 volunteers, and every one of them put their hands up to do something.
“A lot of people want rail-based tourism, and without our volunteers we simply couldn’t operate or give people the experience they’re looking for.”
Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent on May 25, Mr Short, who has been a volunteer with the Rail Motor Society since its inception in the 1980s, said the continual success of the not-for-profit organisation relies on the goodwill of their members who selflessly contribute their time, energy, and individual skillsets across a diverse range of roles to assist in the preservation and operation of the historic fleet of NSW Government Railways rail motors.
Six volunteers including two drivers, a fitter, and attendance staff, travelled to Northern NSW for the running of the tourist trains over the weekend, with many passengers, especially families with young children and Clarence Valley railway fanatics, readily embracing the opportunity to learn about the history of the 621/721 class rail motor and admire the beautiful scenery throughout the region as they journeyed up and down the line.
Treasurer of the Rail Motor Society Trish Short said the tourist trains have always been well supported, and every dollar made through ticket sales assists volunteers as they undertake further restoration projects and ongoing maintenance of the current fleet.
While the Rail Motor Society confirmed they are currently planning additional rail journeys in and around the Clarence Valley, they are extremely thankful to their volunteers for their ongoing dedication, and to regional communities including Grafton for their continual support which allows them to remain on track for future success.
This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 29 May 2024.
