91RM

ID/Name: 91RM
Type:  Railmotor
Description: 280hp Walker Rail Car
Built: 1951
Status: Operational

A testament to Anglo-Australian railway engineering, 91RM stands as the final masterpiece in an order of twelve 280hp railcars from Walker Bros. in Wigan, England. Like its siblings, it showcases the unique collaboration of British engineering and Australian craftsmanship - with power units and controls shipped from the UK, whilst the car bodies were built locally by Martin and King in Malvern, with final assembly at Newport Workshops. These remarkable vehicles featured a distinctive design with a centrally located power unit, and passenger cars articulated on either end, capable of impressive 60mph mainline running.

SERVICE HISTORY
The Walker 280 series revolutionised regional travel, with the first unit commencing service between Melbourne and Daylesford in June 1950. Within just 12 months, these capable railcars were operating services to Wonthaggi, Woomelang, Wangaratta, Deniliquin, Portland, Mansfield, and Leongatha. This network remained largely unchanged until the closure of the branch lines in the 1970s, with unit 88RM notably running the last regular passenger train to Daylesford in September 1977. The 280s then transitioned to inter-urban services to Kyneton, Bacchus Marsh, and Seymour.

However, as the Walker Railcars had been planned only as a stop-gap measure and built for a service life of just 10 -15 years, their deteriorating condition saw major withdrawals and scrappings after 1978, with 91RM being one of the last in service before retirement in 1980.

PRESERVATION JOURNEY
Purchased and transported by road to Daylesford in 1982, 91RM underwent careful restoration to its late 1960s configuration. This work was completed by 1990, and with track restoration finished, 91RM proudly inaugurated our preservation-era operations in April of that year.

CURRENT STATUS
35 years on, 91RM remains the stalwart of our fleet, continuing to delight visitors with its reliable service and historical significance.

FUN FACT
91RM ran the last ever passenger train service to Mansfield in May 1977.

91RM FAQs

• Does one engine go one way and one the other?

  No, both engines drive in the same direction, with forward or reverse being selected on the axle drives.

• Where did they run?

  280hp Walker Rail cars ran all over the state to locations as far away as Wonthaggi, Woomelang, Wangaratta, Deniliquin, Portland, Mansfield, and Leongatha.

• How fast does 91RM go?

  91RM is capable of 60mph, but enjoys a much more leisurely retirement at Daylesford where she is limited to 25mph.