The Kurrajong line was an extension of the Blacktown to Richmond railway. It was opened in November 1926 (passenger trains started on the 8th, with the official opening on the 26th) and closed in 1952 after heavy rain and landslides in June caused the Hawkesbury River to flood. The railway would have carried most of the produce from the area, but by the time it had opened, road transport was already being used. There was also a small siding serving the Nepean Sand and Gravel Company.

After leaving Richmond, crossing the Hakwesbury River, there was a small platform (or "halt") called Nepean Bridge (later renamed to Philip). This was followed by North Richmond station, Red Cutting (halt, no platform, just a sign, passengers were assisted off the train by a set of portable stairs), Kemsleys (halt), Thompson's Ridge (halt), Nurri (halt, as per Red Cutting), Duffy's (halt, as per Red Cutting) and Kurrajong station.

Very little remains of the line today. North Richmond has been built over by houses and a petrol station. Part of the platform remains at Kemsleys. Kurrajong has an electrical substation on the former station site, however the station managers residence remains. Cuttings and line formations can still be seen at various locations.

Safeworking was by means of Ordinary Train Staff (round in shape and red in colour) for the section Richmond-Kurrajong. Telephone Line Clear working could be used between Richmond and the Gravel Sidings while the Staff was at Kurrajong. 

The regular train to Kurrajong consisted of a 20 class locomotive hauling two carriages. This type of locomotive was affectionately known as 'Pansy'.

TRAK (Tourist Railway Association Kurrajong) plans to rebuild the line as a heritage steam operation.

Some more information on the Kurrajong line can be found here.

If you have any further information or photos, please email me.

Above: The bridge over the Hawkesbury river shows the original rail bridge (left) and road bridge. June 19, 2005.

Above: The approach to Red Cutting. June 19, 2005.

Above: Red Cutting 'halt' would have been at/near the gap in the fence. June 19, 2005.

Above: Redbank Creek (between Red Cutting and Kemsleys). June 19, 2005.

Above: The cutting approaching Kemsleys, looking towards Richmond. June 19, 2005.

Above: The remains of Kemsleys. June 19, 2005.

Above: The former site of Kurrajong. June 19, 2005.