Sorry if this is not the right place to post this, but it's because of what has been going on at Picton that has given me concern. I was under the impression that the Landslip at Picton has been cleared up, but now I've been informed that the branchline to Thirlmere has yet to be repaired. I'm concerned because of this, 3801 and 6029 will not be attend the Maitland Steamfest.

Does anyone know what is happening with the repairs? And whenever the line will be repaired before the Steamfest.

Can't really see how it is a Debacle? An extreme weather event happened, the embankment moved and needed to be fixed. If it is not fixed in time then it is what it is. Numerous other events and organisations have been put out by this and they all have to roll with the punches.

3801 didn't make the Harbour Bridge Crossing because of this, Maitland Steamfest is just another event.

They still have almost 2 weeks to finish the repairs and reopen the line. If there was already no hope of it been ready I'm sure something would have been said.

Its a fact of life and look at the impacts on other lines that rightly should be repaired first.

Hopefully it all goes ahead as planned.

Trying to establish the location of the issue of connection with the loop line, unsuccessfully.
Is it the up main prior to the loop?
Where the loop line runs parallel to both the up and down mains?
Or the loop line after diverging away from the mains?

Can't really see how it is a Debacle? An extreme weather event happened, the embankment moved and needed to be fixed. If it is not fixed in time then it is what it is. Numerous other events and organisations have been put out by this and they all have to roll with the punches.

3801 didn't make the Harbour Bridge Crossing because of this, Maitland Steamfest is just another event.

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

They still have almost 2 weeks to finish the repairs and reopen the line. If there was already no hope of it been ready I'm sure something would have been said. Its a fact of life and look at the impacts on other lines that rightly should be repaired first. Hopefully it all goes ahead as planned.

But how do we know what has been done? How much of work repairing the line has been done? How much more needs to be done?

Can't really see how it is a Debacle? An extreme weather event happened, the embankment moved and needed to be fixed. If it is not fixed in time then it is what it is. Numerous other events and organisations have been put out by this and they all have to roll with the punches.

3801 didn't make the Harbour Bridge Crossing because of this, Maitland Steamfest is just another event.

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

They still have almost 2 weeks to finish the repairs and reopen the line. If there was already no hope of it been ready I'm sure something would have been said. Its a fact of life and look at the impacts on other lines that rightly should be repaired first. Hopefully it all goes ahead as planned.

But how do we know what has been done? How much of work repairing the line has been done? How much more needs to be done?

Look mate, plans are written in pencil, it is what is.
The priority is/will be to open the core operating lines.
Will be furious, eh, bad luck.
As above, I’m curious as to the location of the issue.

THNSW's reputation isn't going to suffer when the circumstances are beyond their control. Calm the farm a bit.

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

Mate, you're making a fool of yourself. save your Manufactured Internet Outrage for Insta or Tik Tok

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

I suggest you check your dictionary for the meaning of the word "debacle", or look here: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/debacle

I'll summarise for you:
debacle / (deɪˈbɑːkəl, dɪ-) /
noun

• a sudden disastrous collapse or defeat, esp one involving a disorderly retreat; rout
• the breaking up of ice in a river during spring or summer, often causing flooding
• a violent rush of water carrying along debris

Have any of those happened in this case? No? I didn't think so.

Might be viewed as a disaster by those who were looking to see the said locomotives.

Incorrect. Unless the event suffers a sharp downturn in patronage as a result of the locomotives in question not attending it won't be a disaster. Steamfest has always been about more than if particular locomotives attend. Is it unfortunate? Yes. But hardly a disaster.

Sorry if this is not the right place to post this, but it's because of what has been going on at Picton that has given me concern. I was under the impression that the Landslip at Picton has been cleared up, but now I've been informed that the branchline to Thirlmere has yet to be repaired. I'm concerned because of this, 3801 and 6029 will not be attend the Maitland Steamfest.
Does anyone know what is happening with the repairs? And whenever the line will be repaired before the Steamfest.

A strange priority about fixing a landslip so a stream train can go to an entertainment event. Around my part of the world (South East QLD, Northern Rivers NSW) we also want some major disastrous landslips fixed after our recent huge fatal storms!!!  But our local landslips are on major roads preventing people getting to their own homes. The magnitude of these slips means it is unlikely they will be really fixed for months......

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

THNSW's reputation will, of course, be ruined for ever for allowing an abnormal weather event to occur.
Your reputation is already in tatters for making such a ridiculous statement.

The fact that 3801 is planned to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well the many excursions planned and the Great Train Race.

A lot of people, myself included, will be furious if those would be cancelled, not to mention how much it'll affect the THNSW's reputation.

Mate, you're making a fool of yourself. save your Manufactured Internet Outrage for Insta or Tik Tok

Could we please remain civil and show respect to each other? Just because I posted this thread, there's no excuse for rudeness towards other members.

They still have almost 2 weeks to finish the repairs and reopen the line. If there was already no hope of it been ready I'm sure something would have been said. Its a fact of life and look at the impacts on other lines that rightly should be repaired first. Hopefully it all goes ahead as planned.

3801's part in the Sydney Bridge event was cancelled days before the event, that explains that THNSW announces cancellations days before the event. But let's be honest, it's going to happen with the Steamfest, we're not stupid to not see the obvious right? Who is THNSW foolling?

Incorrect. Unless the event suffers a sharp downturn in patronage as a result of the locomotives in question not attending it won't be a disaster. Steamfest has always been about more than if particular locomotives attend. Is it unfortunate? Yes. But hardly a disaster.

3801 is a well known icon of steam locomotives, like Flying Scotsman, as she was advertise to haul the train to Maitland on Friday, as well being a part of the excursions and the Great Train Race. So, unfortunately, definitely, because the Steamfest and THNSW will lose a lot of money if 3801 is unable to attend.

And how exactly will the Steamfest organizers rectify the Sydney to Maitland trip if 3801 is unable to attend? Call the Picinic Train to substitute on short notice?

Not to mention coming up with substitute for the Branxton and Patterson trips.

Okay, THNSW isn't going to lose their reputation for something they can't control, but you can't deny that it's going to affect their financial income they were hoping to get from the trip to Maitland, and their role in the Steamfest.

Best for them to come up with another trip for damage control, I still think a parallel run with R766 would be the best option. Nothing going on on May.

Might be viewed as a disaster by those who were looking to see the said locomotives.

Check my response to K160.

I suggest you check your dictionary for the meaning of the word "debacle", or look here: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/debacle I'll summarise for you: debacle / (deɪˈbɑːkəl, dɪ-) / noun a sudden disastrous collapse or defeat, esp one involving a disorderly retreat; rout the breaking up of ice in a river during spring or summer, often causing flooding a violent rush of water carrying along debris Have any of those happened in this case? No? I didn't think so.

Definition of debacle

1a : a great disaster. b : a complete failure : fiasco. 2 : a tumultuous breakup of ice in a river. 3 : a violent disruption (as of an army) : rout.

I wouldn't use a word that I didn't know. No, it hasn't happened yet, but let's be honest, it's going to happen. 2 weeks before the Steamfest, there's no chance the line will be repaired in time.

THNSW's reputation will, of course, be ruined for ever for allowing an abnormal weather event to occur. Your reputation is already in tatters for making such a ridiculous statement.

Can we please show some civility and respect each other? There's no excuse for rudeness.

"3801's part in the Sydney Bridge event was cancelled days before the event, that explains that THNSW announces cancellations days before the event. But let's be honest, it's going to happen with the Steamfest, we're not stupid to not see the obvious right? Who is THNSW foolling (sic)?"

Exactly nobody except for those trying to act like media shock jocks.  THNSW is working to get a safely usable mainline connection for the north end of the Loop Line, so that a lot of locomotives and rolling stock can be released before the Maitland weekend.  If it can't be done, then it can't be done.  This is not in THNSW's control.  As others have quite correctly said or alluded to, repair and restoration of the Loop Line connection at Picton is not a state affecting priority at present, there is other storm damage that must have a higher priority.

The situation with the Loop Line and the embankment at Picton is less than ideal. it is not in your control, my control or THNSW's control.  The term 'force majere' comes to mind here.  We can but wait and see what can be done in the next fortnight.

Could we please remain civil and show respect to each other? Just because I posted this thread, there's no excuse for rudeness towards other members.

Sure. We'll show you the same amount of respect that you showed to THNSW.

Can we please show some civility and respect each other? There's no excuse for rudeness.

Who was rude? all I saw was a good deal of fair comment about what you wrote. It isn't disrespectful to differ from your view.

I'm glad that what we all wrote appears to have struck home. I hope you learn from it.

"3801's part in the Sydney Bridge event was cancelled days before the event, that explains that THNSW announces cancellations days before the event. But let's be honest, it's going to happen with the Steamfest, we're not stupid to not see the obvious right? Who is THNSW foolling (sic)?"

Exactly nobody except for those trying to act like media shock jocks.  THNSW is working to get a safely usable mainline connection for the north end of the Loop Line, so that a lot of locomotives and rolling stock can be released before the Maitland weekend.  If it can't be done, then it can't be done.  This is not in THNSW's control.  As others have quite correctly said or alluded to, repair and restoration of the Loop Line connection at Picton is not a state affecting priority at present, there is other storm damage that must have a higher priority.

The situation with the Loop Line and the embankment at Picton is less than ideal. it is not in your control, my control or THNSW's control.  The term 'force majere' comes to mind here.  We can but wait and see what can be done in the next fortnight.

I understand that there are higher priorities that needs to be attended, I understand and respect that. What I don't understand is that THNSW is not being upfront of what is going on, leaving us in the dark, we're not fools. The Picton line is ARTC's matter, which they should keep in mind as well since the Great Train Race is organized by them.

Let's be honest, it's not brain science, 3801 and 6029 will not attend the Maitland Steamfest because of the flooding, it's an obvious fact. We know it's going to happen.

"3801's part in the Sydney Bridge event was cancelled days before the event, that explains that THNSW announces cancellations days before the event. But let's be honest, it's going to happen with the Steamfest, we're not stupid to not see the obvious right? Who is THNSW foolling (sic)?"

Exactly nobody except for those trying to act like media shock jocks.  THNSW is working to get a safely usable mainline connection for the north end of the Loop Line, so that a lot of locomotives and rolling stock can be released before the Maitland weekend.  If it can't be done, then it can't be done.  This is not in THNSW's control.  As others have quite correctly said or alluded to, repair and restoration of the Loop Line connection at Picton is not a state affecting priority at present, there is other storm damage that must have a higher priority.

The situation with the Loop Line and the embankment at Picton is less than ideal. it is not in your control, my control or THNSW's control.  The term 'force majere' comes to mind here.  We can but wait and see what can be done in the next fortnight.

I understand that there are higher priorities that needs to be attended, I understand and respect that. What I don't understand is that THNSW is not being upfront of what is going on, leaving us in the dark, we're not fools. The Picton line is ARTC's matter, which they should keep in mind as well since the Great Train Race is organized by them.

Let's be honest, it's not brain science, 3801 and 6029 will not attend the Maitland Steamfest because of the flooding, it's an obvious fact. We know it's going to happen.

Wow, still furious?
Check your facts and fools.

What I don't understand is that THNSW is not being upfront of what is going on, leaving us in the dark, we're not fools.

In this breath, you complain about being left in the dark and not knowing what's happening.

We know it's going to happen.

Then you take another breath and know it all.  Logic isn't your strong point, is it?

What I don't understand is that THNSW is not being upfront of what is going on, leaving us in the dark, we're not fools.

In this breath, you complain about being left in the dark and not knowing what's happening.

We know it's going to happen.

Then you take another breath and know it all.  Logic isn't your strong point, is it?

If you're going to be blunt, then I guess listening is a foreign word to you. I politely asked you, please remain civil. You don't see me openly mocking anyone here, do you? I treat everyone with respect, push me and I make exceptions.

My problem is that we know what's going on, yet, THNSW doesn't state the obvious fact, we know what's going on, so why the radio silence?

Now for the last time, can we all please treat each other with respect?

If you're going to be blunt, then I guess listening is a foreign word to you. I politely asked you, please remain civil. You don't see me openly mocking anyone here, do you? I treat everyone with respect, push me and I make exceptions.

My problem is that we know what's going on, yet, THNSW doesn't state the obvious fact, we know what's going on, so why the radio silence?

Now for the last time, can we all please treat each other with respect?

I respect your right to post whatever you want to say. But why, in the name of Mazeppa, being blunt implies a failure to listen is a class one mystery. it is an illogical conclusion.  

I have commented plainly in clear colloquial English upon things you have written. I was taught to say what I mean. You appear to have been taught that a degree of feigned respect is more important than logical comment. You do it your way; I'll do it my way, and will continue to use plain English to answer comments you make, whilst respecting your right to make them.

If you're going to be blunt, then I guess listening is a foreign word to you. I politely asked you, please remain civil. You don't see me openly mocking anyone here, do you? I treat everyone with respect, push me and I make exceptions.

My problem is that we know what's going on, yet, THNSW doesn't state the obvious fact, we know what's going on, so why the radio silence?

Now for the last time, can we all please treat each other with respect?

I respect your right to post whatever you want to say. But why, in the name of Mazeppa, being blunt implies a failure to listen is a class one mystery. it is an illogical conclusion.  

I have commented plainly in clear colloquial English upon things you have written. I was taught to say what I mean. You appear to have been taught that a degree of feigned respect is more important than logical comment. You do it your way; I'll do it my way, and will continue to use plain English to answer comments you make, whilst respecting your right to make them.

You openly mocked me, where as I did not make one instance, not one implication of insulting you in any way. Stating that I rendered my reputation to tatters, then openly stated that logic isn't my strong point. Did you see me address anyone here in that manner?

I address everyone with the same respect, not only because it's common sense, but also it is mandatory here in the forums.

I don't blame THNSW for matters that are beyond their control, I am upset that they are not being honest with stating the obvious fact. If they believe otherwise, then say it.

I really would like to know how the Steamfest is going to rectify the situation with 3801 not pulling the train to Maitland on Friday.

If you're going to be blunt, then I guess listening is a foreign word to you. I politely asked you, please remain civil. You don't see me openly mocking anyone here, do you? I treat everyone with respect, push me and I make exceptions.

My problem is that we know what's going on, yet, THNSW doesn't state the obvious fact, we know what's going on, so why the radio silence?

Now for the last time, can we all please treat each other with respect?

I respect your right to post whatever you want to say. But why, in the name of Mazeppa, being blunt implies a failure to listen is a class one mystery. it is an illogical conclusion.  

I have commented plainly in clear colloquial English upon things you have written. I was taught to say what I mean. You appear to have been taught that a degree of feigned respect is more important than logical comment. You do it your way; I'll do it my way, and will continue to use plain English to answer comments you make, whilst respecting your right to make them.

You openly mocked me, where as I did not make one instance, not one implication of insulting you in any way. Stating that I rendered my reputation to tatters, then openly stated that logic isn't my strong point. Did you see me address anyone here in that manner?

I address everyone with the same respect, not only because it's common sense, but also it is mandatory here in the forums.

I don't blame THNSW for matters that are beyond their control, I am upset that they are not being honest with stating the obvious fact. If they believe otherwise, then say it.

I really would like to know how the Steamfest is going to rectify the situation with 3801 not pulling the train to Maitland on Friday.

You're implying that THNSW and ARTC are engaging in deceitful behaviour because they don't keep you informed of the progress to repair the storm damage to the Loop Line, then seemingly are offended when you are told some home truths about your expectations. What did you expect, for us to empathise?
Had The Loaded Dog, Sir Thomas Bent, and others still been around on RP, then you would have known what it is to be mocked.

Never have I read so much hyped drama on this event. It contains more flip-flops than the footwear section at Big W.

I don't blame THNSW for matters that are beyond their control, I am upset that they are not being honest with stating the obvious fact. If they believe otherwise, then say it.

I really would like to know how the Steamfest is going to rectify the situation with 3801 not pulling the train to Maitland on Friday.

Have they issued an official statement yet? If not then how are they 'not being honest with stating the obvious fact'?

As for Steamfest, surely you could contact the organisers and ask them yourself. Contact information at the bottom of the main page: https://www.steamfest.com.au/ . Probably would have been a good place to start but anyway...