In the previous instalment of this series, it was all about getting the model moving. It didn't pan out perfectly, but it was a start - and a good opportunity to get a look at the model's internals. Now I need to figure out a way forward from there. The next step will be to replace the decoder.
This Fleischmann BR 610 really is a lovely model. It looks gorgeous, is nicely detailed, the print quality is near flawless, and the idea of an actual tilting mechanic is great, even if it is not exactly prototypical. But, alas, looks aren't everything, especially when it comes to a second hand acquisition.
Intermodal traffic is pretty big in Australia, and has a long history. While rail freight is dominated by bulk goods such as ore, coal and grain, container traffic is a not insignificant part of Australia's rail transport. Rail corridors between major cities are frequented by container trains, adding up to hundreds of thousands of tons each month.
Whatever is happening on my layout does not necessarily bear resemblance to reality. The fact alone that I run trains from two different continents should make clear that this is not an attempt at modelling a specific place at a specific time. The key motto is: If it's fun, it'll run. My railway, my rules.
It has been five years since, in a quest to assemble a specific train, I acquired a model of an East German dining car in the then typical red Mitropa livery. At the time, I didn't really know what I had bought - only that the model had been produced in the GDR. But I was surprised at the condition of the model and the still working interior lighting. Subsequently I learned a bit more about the providence of it.
Last year, we had a bit of a holiday haul. This year, while some new rolling material arrived over the holiday period, there have also been quite a few additions throughout the rest of the year. So it figures to do a year-in-review style post this time around.