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Class P6 (C3319) No.912 locomotive decorated for the coronation of King George V, (1865 - 1936) at Penrith Railway Station. Class P6 (C3319) No.912 locomotive decorated for the coronation of King George V, (1865 - 1936) at Penrith Railway Station.
30 January 2013 Posted by 

Penrith railway station turns 150

THE opening of Penrith Railway Station, which turns 150-years-old this year also marked the birth of the region's commercial hub and economic security.

 An exhibition called The Day The Train Came  To Penrith being held at the Research Room at Penrith City Library until February 12 to mark the station's 150th anniversary.

The exhibition features five replica model trains from the 1860s, original paintings of local trains, train dining service silverware and cutlery and the pocket watch of John 'Jock' Heron - one of the first train drivers on the Western line.

Memorabilia from several of the early train drivers can also be seen in a display in one of the glass cabinets in the library. Along with photos of the original railway station and trains, there are also ticket stubs and a train driver's journal to see.

The exhibition and display has been coordinated by Penrith Council's historian Lorraine Stacker, who says the opening of the Penrith Railways Station had such an enormous impact on the city, its residents and development of the region that it was important to acknowledge its 150th anniversary.

"The coming of the railway meant employment and economic security, full schools and viable retail and commercial businesses for Penrith,” she said.

It was also the beginning of tourism - easy access to the broad expanses of the river, the beauty spots of Mulgoa and Wallacia, and the ever popular swimming spots at 'Little Manly' at Emu Plains, she said.

"The train also meant a much easier and quicker travel into Sydney for commuters and the movement of produce to Sydney markets. Interestingly, a train trip then was not much longer than an express trip today!"

For Penrith City Library opening hours, visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au



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Michael Walls
michael@accessnews.com.au
0407 783 413

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