The train departed bang on time at 10.00am and with all that locomotive power upfront the departure was 'as smooth as silk'. Once outside Perth the train picked up speed and within an hour, we were entering the Avon Valley some 47 kilometres northeast of Perth.
It was named after the Avon River, which flows through it. The area is an undulating plateau with the sides of the valley steeply sloping back to the river approximately 200 metres (660 ft) below.
We were traveling on the Eastern Railway that follows the southern border of the Avon National Park and on the southern side of the Avon River. The line passes through the Darling Scarp also known as the Darling Ranges.
The Avon River is a tributary of the Swan River, and flows 240 kilometres (150 miles) from source to mouth. It is the site of an annual whitewater boating event, the Avon Descent that unusually includes both paddle craft such as kayaks and small,10hp sports class powerboats and runs from Northam to the Perth suburb of Bayswater. The first event took place in 1973 and it is now held annually every August. The course includes several high-grade i.e. difficult rapids and is 124 kilometres (77 miles) in length.
Today the river levels were low but when the rains arrive the river becomes a torrent of white water.
The powerboats are made from foam and fibreglass and fitted with hydraulic jacks that enable the unmodified motors to be lifted and to run a surface piercing propeller. So, not unlike the jet boats I experienced in New Zealand on the Dart River.
After an enjoyable Brunch I settled back to watch the scenery that changed by late afternoon to a more open arable landscape.
Every now and then the train pulled into a siding loop to allow a freight train to past travelling east towards Perth. These freight trains were long and often included wagons stacked 3 storeys high with containers. I recall in Canada, when riding the Rocky Mountaineer, that the freight trains were often a mile in length!
We were now heading for our first Off-Train Experience at Kalgoorlie, the site of the 'Super Pit'.
