IT was the "gorgeous grandma" rather than the brave little steam engine that visited, but there was a buzz nonetheless at the Tarana station recently.
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The original plan was for Lachlan Valley Railway to bring the steam engine 3237 to the village to coincide with the monthly Tarana Community Farmers' Market, but the maintenance volunteers could not get it ready in time for the big day.
Instead, what Lachlan Valley Railway's John Healey described as the "gorgeous grandma" of the fleet , the 1950s GM diesel 4204, "just fresh out of shops in her dazzling repainted livery", made the trip.
"And certainly the train did not disappoint," Annie Cook from the Tarana Community Farmers' Market Committee said.
"The train from Lithgow arrived around 11.30am and lots of happy travellers disembarked for a wander through the markets, then lunch at the Tarana Hotel or Mumma Snow's cafe.
"Another group boarded around midday for the ride to Bathurst and back."
Long-term Tarana farmer and resident Debbie Fletcher said it was a great day.
"I took the train to Bathurst with my grandchildren, other family and friends and it was a marvellous outing for us all," she said.
"The children really enjoyed it and the adults loved to see the very familiar countryside from the railway rather than the road. And it was good fun to all be in the old compartment together."
Ms Cook said the many visitors made the markets very lively, with many of the stallholders saying they had their best day at Tarana. The organising committee of the Tarana market pass on their thanks to John Healey and his team from Lachlan Valley Railways for arranging the train day and giving so many such a happy day," she said.
"And it is hoped that next year another day can be organised, hopefully with the steam engine 3237 on hand for the journey."
BRIDGE UPGRADE
MCKANES Bridge in South Bowenfels was built in 1893 and is one of only four remaining McDonald timber truss bridges in NSW.
The State Government has earmarked $10 million for its upgrade and restoration.
Bathurst MP Paul Toole said the project aimed to ensure the beautiful timber-truss bridge continued to serve the community and maintain its heritage appearance.
"I know the community loves this bridge and wants to see it restored properly for generations to come. The bridge also provides a vital link between Jenolan Caves Road and the Great Western Highway for both locals and tourists."
To facilitate the upgrade it is proposed McKanes Falls Road would be closed to traffic for about 12 months. Information is available at rms.work/mckanesbridge.