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Indian Pacific train turns 40

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Source: Catherine Deshayes

The world's only trans-continental passenger train service has celebrated its 40th anniversary...

History was made when the Indian Pacific departed Sydney Central Station on the first direct rail journey across the Australian continent on February 23, 1970.

Tens of thousands of people lined the track to witness what was said to be a symbol of nationhood.

"Australia is the only continent in the world that can be crossed coast-to-coast by train," Great Southern Rail spokesman Russell Westmoreland said today.

"The wedge-tailed eagle is the symbol of the Indian Pacific - its massive two metre wingspan symbolises the epic journey of an adventure that spans a continent."

The train ride takes in the Blue Mountains, salt lakes and sand dunes of South Australia, and the longest straight stretch of rail track in the world on the Nullarbor Plain.

Mr Westmoreland said more than 55,000 passengers traverse the nation by train each year.

Source: watoday.com.au