ABC Documentaries

A Legend In Steam: In the golden age of steam, 3801 was a triumph in design, construction and performance. The Pacific Class 38s were among the finest examples of steam locomotives to come out of Australian workshops. Now, from the personal archives of cameraman and steam fan Jim Powe, this documentary presents the great events that made the 3801 a legend, including: The famous record-breaking speed run from Sydney to Newcastle. The first unbroken steam run from Sydney to Melbourne. The incredible across-Australia-to-Perth run in 1970. The overhaul of the 3801 in 1986. The full musical tribute to the 3801 performed by the railway group Chullora Junction. Locomotive 3801 began service for the New South Wales Government Railways in 1943 and was still steaming in 1988 when this feature was made. With special trips all over the continent it became the focal point for railway celebrations to mark the Bicentenary of white settlement in Australia that year.