Once again, we’re back on the road heading out to check out what appears to be a hidden secret to many.
With a start of the new year February 18th came soon enough, unfortunately Norman couldn’t be with us on this trip but George, William, Trevor, Wayne, Ron, Kevin, Rob, Mel, John and myself Gerry climbed aboard the 10 seater bus and headed off to the SLEEPS HILLS TUNNELS of which there are two.
Gae, from the MOSHCC worked her wonders organising this trip arranging for us to be met at a certain time at the tunnels. After stopping for the traditional cuppa and biscuit break of which we always enjoy, we headed off arriving at the arranged time.
The southern tunnel we explored is 4.0 metres high and 4.3 metres wide at the base and 377 metres long with recess coves every 60 metres apart so workers on the tracks could stay safe when the train approached.
The tunnel walls are 8 bricks thick and it’s estimated that approximately 9 million bricks were used on both tunnels. Trevor started counting them but got to 98 then gave up.
They also built viaducts at the same time allowing for the curvature of the land to coincide with the tunnels.
During World War 1 (1914-18) the tunnels were used for Military purposes like hiding secret communications in so protecting the line. The last passenger train went through the tunnels in August 1919 and the viaducts were dismantled in 1920. Some have in the past said they continued to hear GHOST TRAINS for many years.
The shorter tunnel in Eden Hills being only 150 metres long stored the States Libraries most valuable documents, artifacts and records while the longer tunnel in Panorama ( the one we visited) 290 metres long stored ammunition.
In 1960 after being left abandoned the tunnel became a mushroom farm producing and exporting around 2000 boxes per week.
A very interesting tour and enjoyed by all.
After exploring the tunnels, we found another gem called LA CREAMA RESERVE ROASTERY at 14 Denis St, St. Mary’s where we sat for lunch and were shown how they roast their coffee beans which are imported from Brazil and other countries.
It was then time to start for home and as we always do we find the road that leads to the closest MACCA’S to get our traditional soft serve icecream which was kindly donated to us all by George.
A great day out and now looking forward our next trip next month to
the COOPERS BREWERY
Cheers, Gerry