The project to build overhead power lines on the central coal
lines was concived to save money on fuel and reduce costs. The existing trains were diesel hauled with two on the front and
three in the middle controlled via a remote wagon that trailed the locos in the train.
It was the draw bar load limit that dictated the use of locos
mid train rather than any operating requirement due to grades ect. Once the project was completed in the late 80's the new
trains used only four locos for the same load. The government of the day also decided that the North Coast Line was also to
be electrafied from Brisbane to Rockhampton to achieve the same cost reductions but only recently with the completion of several
major re-alignment projects has this line realised its full potential. Electric locos could be seen on almost all types of
trains including passenger, coal , livestock, freight and grain.
Recently with the surge in demand for coal all of the electric
freight locos have been placed in coal service and diesels have taken over the southern portion of the NCL.
If you want more information on the electric locomotives
used by Queensland Railways go to the links at the bottom of the page or the links page.
