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Sensing the possible closure of the Redcliffs to Meringur line as an outcome of the CANAC report recommendations, members of the Australian Railway Exploration Association (AREA) travelled to Mildura on "The Vinelander" and chartered a special train to inspect the branch line on 23-11-1985. Carriage 1BW (operated by Steamrail Victoria) was sent to Mildura for the group's use and guard's van 55VVBP (formerly 55ZLP) was attached. Locomotive T413 was used to haul the train. This locomotive was of particular interest to the rail enthusiasts as it started its life in the ownership of Australian Portland Cement at Fyansford, near Geelong, on 3 foot 6 inch gauge. In 1967 it was purchased by the Victorian Railways and was used almost exclusively on the Wodonga to Cudgewa branch line in north-east Victoria as it was fitted with dynamic brakes and was suited to the steeply graded line.
The special train departed Mildura at 11.15 a.m. with Driver J. Dowty and Guard T. Gottsutzke in charge. Stops were made at Irymple, Redcliffs, Karawinna and Werrimull before Meringur was reached at 4.08 p.m.. Numerous stops for the enthusiasts to photograph the special train were made in between stations on the branch line. A chartered bus then took the group for an inspection of the former section to Karween and Morkalla which had been closed and the rails removed.
On their return, the special departed from Meringur at 4.41 p.m. with stops at Yarrara, Werrimull, Merrinee, Pirlta, Redcliffs and Mildura was reached about 7.30 p.m.. After an overnight stay at Mildura, the group departed for Melbourne on "The Vinelander" on 24-11-1985.
T413 brings the special train from the car sidings to the Mildura platform prior to the start of the AREA excursion to Meringur and return on 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
T413 with its special train between Pirlta and Merrinee. Note the condition of the track. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
The AREA special train passing through Karawinna. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
T413 passes through country typical of the Meringur branch line as it travels with the AREA special train between Karawinna and Werrimull. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
T413 departs from Werrimull after a stop of nearly half an hour to allow an inspection of the rail facilities and visit the local shops. Photo: Bruce McLean
The country changes into a forest of belar and pine near Yarrara. T413 approaches in the distance with the AREA special. Note the condition of the 60lb rail and track formation. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
T413 took the special train right to the end of the line at Meringur, the line beyond this point to Morkalla having been lifted after closure. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
After inspecting the end of line, the train reversed into No.2 road. Guard Mr. T. Gottsutzke holds the spur lever for entry into No.2 road. The locomotive then shunted the rolling stock into reverse order. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
With the last passenger train at Meringur, T413 runs back to connect to its train for the return to Mildura. 23-11-1985. Photo: Bruce McLean
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