Friday, Sep 02, 2016 at 15:28
Hi Boobook
I have been keeping in touch with my contact in
Ceduna for more than 2 years to get things moving regarding the 100th Anniversary, but as they say, things move very slow in some and here is a copy of my last email that goes back to March this year.
All local politicians have better things to do.....which is a real shame and the more input from people like us will hopefully help things along.
"I have had further discussions with the State and Federal members for the
Port Augusta and outback regions.....without anything tangible received back yet.
I have been advised by Great Southern Rail that they will meet with me in the near future to establish some mutual opportunities, but I doubt they would contribute to any costs associated with the design, construction and erection of the monuments.
To date I still have not had any response back from the ARA (Australasia Railway Association), as to their potential input, nor similarly from other organisations.
The Federal Member for
Port Adelaide’s (Mark Butler) office is currently pursuing potential grant source options....but sadly again not too promising.
There is little hope for any special train by any operator across the Nullarbor and/or associated with unveiling the proposed monuments.
Considering the timing left, and potential overall costs, a few of us are firming up on the opinion that the focus should only be on the construction and erection of two new monuments – and no more.
Given ARTC’s advice that they will transport and install the monuments, it may be the best option.
Pichi Richi Railway still intends to have an involvement for any activity/function at
Port Augusta....associated with the Centenary."
As you can see, it seems to be no big deal with ARTC.
Cheers
Stephen
FollowupID:
873724