The Ulan Line plays host to some of the heaviest (11,000 tonne) block coal train operations in New South Wales, over countryside which is both picturesque and rugged.
The line extends west from Muswellbrook, via Sandy Hollow to Ulan (and then beyond to Gulgong). The section beyond Sandy Hollow had been procrastinated over by governments since 1925, at which time it was proposed to construct a line joining Sandy Hollow (via Gulgong) to Maryvale, the aim being to “assist decentralisation, provide a connecting link between North and West and give Central West settlers an opening to northern ports”.
Construction work on the line did not commence until 1936, being delayed by the 1930’s depression, and then all but ceased in 1939 as a result of World War II. A restart was attempted in 1946, but again construction ceased in 1950 due to a shortage in funding and construction materials. At this point in time, some 80% of the earth works for the cross country line were complete, with many bridge piers, platforms and tunnels constructed. In fact the No.1 (Cox’s Gap) tunnel was used for many years as public road access until the Ulan line became operational in 1982.
It was the 1970s world oil crisis which made the completion of the Ulan Line a reality by reviving coal as an economical fuel source. Additionally, the Ulan Mine, which had been supplying coal to the local Ulan Power Station since the 1950’s, was proven to have enormous supplies of high quality steaming coal. White Industries and Mitsubishi Developments purchased the mine and formed Ulan Coal Mines Ltd. The company negotiated a unique agreement with the NSW government whereby it would finance the construction of the Ulan Line in return for coal freight rebates. Construction recommenced in 1980, and the first coal train operated on the Ulan Line on 13th September 1982.
This video, Ulan Line, captures operation of heavy freight trains between Muswellbrook and Ulan in the period 1997-1999. It features quad, triple and twin 90 Class and triple 82 Class hauling heavy coal trains. Other classes seen on grain and ore traffic include 48 and 81 class units.
Approximate run time: 82 minutes.