Gradient? What gradient?
24th June 2012 marked the centenary of the branch line from Bulle to Broc-Fabrique. This short branch line near Gruyères, Switzerland, was built primarily to serve the Cailler chocolate factory, which it still does to this day.
For the centenary weekend the current operators of the line (Transports Publics Fribourgeois) organised a superb special event, in collaboration with with two local railway preservation groups, local industries, schools and community organisations. An enhanced timetable was operated on the branch using several historic trains, with free travel for all. Special displays and events were put on at the stations, and fine weather was pre-arranged!
Each day, three steam-hauled round trips were operated. BFD3 from the Blonay-Chamby is a powerful 2-6-0RT, and is seen here climbing the 1:20 gradient out of Broc-Fabrique at 11:24 on 23rd June.
Gradient? What gradient?
24th June 2012 marked the centenary of the branch line from Bulle to Broc-Fabrique. This short branch line near Gruyères, Switzerland, was built primarily to serve the Cailler chocolate factory, which it still does to this day.
For the centenary weekend the current operators of the line (Transports Publics Fribourgeois) organised a superb special event, in collaboration with with two local railway preservation groups, local industries, schools and community organisations. An enhanced timetable was operated on the branch using several historic trains, with free travel for all. Special displays and events were put on at the stations, and fine weather was pre-arranged!
Each day, three steam-hauled round trips were operated. BFD3 from the Blonay-Chamby is a powerful 2-6-0RT, and is seen here climbing the 1:20 gradient out of Broc-Fabrique at 11:24 on 23rd June.