XP2001 looks good from the air

["Chris Downs" <cvdowns@ozemail.com.au>]

I flew into to Sydney from Armidale yesterday afternoon.  The plane was
still a couple of thousand metres above the ground (my guess) when we passed
to the west of Brooklyn.  XP2001 was very distinctive on the rear of the
Sydney - Brisbane XPT as the train crossed the Hawkesbury - it stood out
against the blue and green background and looked great from the air.
Where's the camera when I need it.

As an aside the 6 car V-set I caught from Hazelbrook (1545) to Central on
Sunday afternoon travelled the up suburban line from Auburn to Wells St.  We
paced (sort of) an up 6 car V-set from the north from Strathfield to
Illawarra Jct.  Something I've not witnessed before.

To top matters off the 2247 Kingsgrove - City service took the ESR option
last night.  Despite being an East Hills line traveller for innumerable
years this was a first also.  On arrival at Central all the suburban
platforms were closed.  Alternative arrangements were well signposted but
many passengers seemed puzzled.  What work was occurring that required such
a shut down?

Chris