Bathurst Rail Museum

02/06/2026

Ok, we *promise* these are the last pics we'll share of the 3526 locomotive... well, the last before it arrives in Bathurst!

And of course here are some more snippets of information for you:

- Built in 1917, 3526’s original number was 1314.
- 3526 is one of the few NSW locomotives to have been painted in blue livery for a time, while hauling the Caves Express services from Sydney to Mount Victoria in the 1930s.
- It was withdrawn in 1967, but in the same year became the first exhibit to be painted by the NSW Rail Transport Museum, the forerunner of Transport Heritage NSW.
- 3526 was active in heritage operations until 1975, when it became a static display at what is now the NSW Rail Museum in Thirlmere.
- It returned to heritage service in 2004, wearing an unlined black livery.

📸 Heritage NSW

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Ways to the West

01/06/2026

Can't wait!!!

This long weekend, locomotive 3526 returns to the Central West to celebrate 150 years since the railways reached Bathurst.

Join us on this sesquicentenary celebration for a 1.5-hour steam train ride from Bathurst to Wimbledon and return, or take a longer half-day journey through the Central West to Orange and return.

Plus, throughout the weekend, enjoy a range of celebratory activities at the Bathurst Rail Museum. Party like it’s 1946 at the Steam Social, browse market stalls, and enjoy 20% off admission to the museum.

For more details on this weekend’s events, visit thnsw.com.au/experiences/bathurst

📸 Cooper Chapman

31/05/2026

3526 will be here in LESS THAN A WEEK!!!!

Here's some more info about the 35 Class, thanks to Transport Heritage NSW:

- They were built for the NSW Government Railways (NSWGR) by Eveleigh Railway Workshops.
- Originally known as the NN class, which gave rise to the nickname ‘Nanny’.
- They were reclassified as the 35 class during the 1924 renumbering program
- Coincidentally, there were 35 engines in the 35 class. They were intended to reduce the amount of 'double-heading' required for main line express trains following the introduction of heavy, twelve-wheeled corridor compartment cars.
- With the advent of the 36 and later the 38 classes, the 35s spent the greater part of their lives on northern services.

📸 Transport Heritage NSW - SJB Photography

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28/05/2026

Head in and pick up some goodies at our Steam Weekend Markets on Sunday 7 June, 9am-2pm.

With over 15 stalls boasting local produce and gifts, live music from local artists and face painting, there’s something for everyone.

Visit Bathurst NSW Bathurst Regional Council Central NSW Tourism Other Ways to the West Destination NSW

25/05/2026

Steam Locomotive 3526 'The Nanny'

We can't wait for the 3526 to visit us in less than two weeks!

Here are some vital stats of this class:
Introduced: 1917
Withdrawn: 1967
Top speed: 115km/h
Wheel arrangement: 4-6-0
Boiler pressure: 180psi
Weight: 130T

An extensive overhaul of locomotive 3526 was undertaken by Transport Heritage NSW from 2015-2018, including a total rebuild of the original tender with a new frame and tank and repainting the Brunswick Green livery.

Purchase tickets for the 3526 here: https://www.thnsw.com.au/experiences/bathurst

Purchase tickets for the Steam Social on Saturday 6 June here (selling fast!): https://events.humanitix.com/steam-social

📸 Transport Heritage NSW

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14/05/2026

Tickets for our Steam Social are selling fast, so get in now to avoid disappointment!

With music from the Mitchell Conservatorium's CONnections Big Band, canapes included and a Reckless Brewing Co. bar, this will be a social event not to be missed!

Tickets just $30 or $25 for members, available at the Bathurst Rail Museum or here: https://events.humanitix.com/steam-social

Visit Bathurst NSW Bathurst Regional Council Central NSW Tourism Transport Heritage NSW

Dress up in your best swing dance outfit, put on your dancing shoes and party like it’s 1946!

08/05/2026

🚂 Steam trains are back to join us marking a milestone!

Celebrate 150 years since the railway reached Bathurst with a special heritage steam train ride this June long weekend thanks to Transport Heritage NSW

Journey behind historic locomotive 3526 from Bathurst Station - choose a 90-minute ride to Wimbledon or a longer adventure to Orange.

Perfect for families, rail enthusiasts and anyone wanting a unique Central West experience.

Seats are selling fast - book now for this special anniversary journey
https://www.thnsw.com.au/experiences/bathurst

01/05/2026

It's here! The Steam Social will be held on Saturday 6 June, 6pm.

To celebrate the visit by a Transport Heritage NSW steam locomotive and 150 years since the railway arrived in Bathurst, the Bathurst Rail Museum is inviting the community to dance the night away with the Mitchell Conservatorium's CONnections Big Band at the Steam Social.

Cocktail refreshments will be available and Reckless Brewing Co. behind the bar.

Tickets now on sale! https://events.humanitix.com/steam-social

Visit Bathurst NSW Bathurst Regional Council Arts Outwest

Dress up in your best swing dance outfit, put on your dancing shoes and party like it’s 1946!