Southwest Victoria has much to offer the rail observer. In Various Goings On Volume 1, Crispin Groves-Raines takes a look at a selection of operations and locations in this beautiful region. Filmed during 2008, both broad and standard gauge operations are featured, including Warrnambool, Ballarat and Portland in the far southwest corner of Victoria.
In section one, we observe V/Line passenger services at Warrnambool hauled by the mighty N Class locomotives. The size of this motive power can be appreciated as we see them manoeuvre around the short trains used for these services.
In addition to passenger services, the weekday container freight operation is also featured. At the time of filming, the service was in the hands of rail operator El Zorro. This situation was soon to change as El Zorro were to lose this operation to Pacific National only a short time after these scenes were taken. We see an evening service preparing for departure to Melbourne North Dynon.
In section two, time is taken to look at the grand regional railway station that is Ballarat. Whilst passenger services are largely in the hands of V/Line's Velocity trains, there is still much of a railway atmosphere to be observed. Presently in 2008, the original signal boxes and signal gantries still stand, though they are sadly out of use and have seen better days.
The final section looks at a small slice of the Various Goings On around the region. Some delightful and surprising locations are featured, including Gheringhap and Maroona junction. We end on a positive note with the return of rail services to Portland after a long period of disuse throughout most of 2008. The first mineral sands service operated by El Zorro is seen departing Portland on a cold, wet and windy night.
The presentation also includes many clips of railway infrastructure, ideal for the Victorian railway modeller and two audio tracks - narration ON / OFF. Top images and great sound make this a must have for the Australian railway enthusiast.
Approximate run time: 61 minutes.