Gala Day

On Sunday 29th May 2005, the CMR celebrated the anniversary of the first train to arrive in Cooma (30th May 1889). The occasion saw the return of the very popular 'shuttle' services, where one rail motor travels from Cooma to Bunyan and a second from Bunyan to Chakola. This pattern of operations means passengers experience two changes of trains during the round trip, adding another enjoyable dimension to the experience.

The sequence of events unfolded as follows:

First thing in the morning, a display of trolleys belonging to CMR members was set up on the platform. The latest addition is pictured below (this one is built for comfort).

Then the two CPH motor cars were brought out for coupling

The first service of the day proceeded to Bunyan, where the set was uncoupled. In the photo below, 22 has already gone ahead into the platform on the siding, ready to run the return service to Cooma, whilst 6 is proceeding to the mainline side of the platform, to run the service on to Chakola.

Thereafter the day proceeded smoothly, with 6 services operating on the hour from 10am. The services were very popular, with 4 of them being full or nearly full. The weather was initially overcast and somewhat cold (as shown in the Chakola view below) and the sausage sizzle on Cooma platform did a roaring trade – hats off to the members manning the catering stalls. Later on in the day the sun came out and completed a great day for the CMR.

The third, fourth, fifth and sixth photos above were supplied by Peter Lawrence, who joined the CMR on the day. Welcome Peter and thanks for the photos!