Model Forum / General / Railroads / June 2004

Hi Guys
Decided to take my 2 yr old grandson on a free plane trip before he turns 3
at the end of this month.

Thought a quick one night trip to Melb (from  Syd) would be the shot, with a
trip up the Dandenongs to ride Puffing Billy. Minimum cost as far as
possible (Qantas retiree= cheap plane fare). No added expense re hire car.

On the net looked up accommodation in Belgrave and found only two or three
places... bread and breakfast places who want a minimum of $120/night.
Anyone know of cheaper places in the general area? If not in Belgrave, then
within a few stations of Belgrave, close to the stations to make it a bit
easier for a (by that time)  tired Grandad trundling a toddler in a
stroller.

I know there is a motel on Whitehorse Rd at Box Hill which is reasonably
priced and within easy walking distance of Box Hill station- I've stayed
there a few times for the AMRA Box Hill exhibition.

One scenario is to arrv Tulla mid to late afternoon, airport bus to Spencer
St, tram to motel Box Hill, dep Box Hill following morning by train for
Belgrave, muck around Puffing Billy till mid afternoon, train back to
Spencer St then airport bus to Tulla for early evening dep back to Syd.
If any of you have knowledge of places to stay closer to Belgrave for the
arrival day, that would be an advantage.

Another  scenario is to arrive Tulla mid morning, airport bus to Spncr St,
train straight to Belgrave, do Puffing Billy till overnight in Belgrave
general area, then following morning do Puffing Billy again  till early
afternoon, train to Spncr  St  and bus back to airport for late afternoon or
early evening dep. back to Syd.
What do you think? Any suggestions?

Few questions:
   How much time should I allow for the transit time and max waiting time
for the airport bus?
     How long for a train trip btwn Spncr St and Belgrave?
 Any traps I should be aware of?
   Cost of train fare to Belgrave? ex Spncr St and ex Box Hill.
   If I take the Box Hill option, what trams do I take to get there from
Spencer St? (Riding trams is no big deal for Harrison. He has ridden the
Sydney tram, aka "light rail", a number of times and probably couldnt tell
the difference btwn that and a Melb. tram). (Riding the Melb tram is more
for my benefit). (would prob. be easier to get the train to Box Hill).
Can I get a single tram ticket for a destination and change as often as
needed, or do I have to pay a seperate fare on each change?

Brainstorm! Thanks.

...................................Bill

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"I have not said this. I am not here". -The Navigator