1994 July - Farewell 44 & 45 class tour

On Saturday 30 July 1994 NSWRTM operated the
'Farewell 44 and 45 class tour' to coincide with
mass withdrawal of both clases that same month.
Train number NL 21 special departed Sydney Terminal at 7.35am with 4403 and 4468 in charge for the 870km round trip to Ulan in the states far north west.
At Broadmeadow, the 44s were detached, passenger cars watered and 4501 added to the locomotive consist.
The train continued on to Muswellbrook, Denman, Sandy Hollow reaching its destination Ulan late afternoon.
At Ulan the train traversed the large balloon loop, departing at 4pm for its return path to Sydney as NL22.
NL22 arrived Sydney Terminal at 0136hrs Sunday 31st July concluding an 18hrs round trip.
The tour was a fitting tribute to ALCO 44 and 45 class members that were an integral part of the states rail operations for almost four decades.

[@dieseldavetrains8988]

Great video, it certainly drew out the rail fans, the Cardiff Locomotive Auction on the 16th of Dec 1994 saw the majority of both classes snapped up by Sims Metal. I wonder in coming years would a "Farewell to the NR class" would draw the same crowds? Choice locations too, thanks for posting, really enjoyed it.