Daily Telegraph - 16 October 2010
© Daily Telegraph
The Tank Engine can take a lot of credit for getting a whole new generation interested in the wonderful world of steam trains. Children, particularly boys, have become enamoured with the books and ABC TV show over the years. The romance of the rails is also celebrated at Lithgow's famous Zig Zag Railway this weekend, marking 100 years since it was bypassed as the main route west by 10 tunnels (p9). There are several other tourist railways in the state also worth a trip, including the major museum at Thirlmere. Another railway is close to re-opening at Oberon, while there's a non-steam operation down at Cooma. If you are looking for something a little closer to Sydney to do this week, Best Weekend has all you need to know about beers, balls, bears and bridges. Cuddle a teddy at tomorrow's Teddy Bears' Picnic (p8), get a new perspective on the amber drop at the Australian Beer Festival (p10), watch the willow wielded at your local cricket ground (p11) and start planning your route for the Seven Bridges Walk (p12). If that's not enough you can also drool over some of the world's most exotic cars as the Australian International Motor Show kicks off at Darling Harbour (p10). It's full steam ahead for fun. Many bridges to cross: Don your walking shoes and trek along some of the magnificent tracks that will feature in the upcoming Seven Bridges walk David editor
