Craig Kelly (Hughes, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Most members of parliament travel to and from Canberra by plane, and a few of us are lucky enough to drive. Last week I decided to make the journey by train, which is operated by NSW TrainLink. The trip from Kingston station here in Canberra takes around 3.5 hours to Campbelltown and another four hours and 10 minutes to Sydney Central Station with stops on the way at Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Tarago, Goulburn, Bundanoon, Moss Vale and Mittagong. Although it took about an hour longer than driving, travelling by train is a much more interesting scenic route and gives you a different look at the countryside. The cost of a one-way ticket was $40.67, and for the princely extra sum of $16.60 I could have upgraded to first class. The seats in economy were comfortable, more comfortable than an aircraft or a bus, and the train has the additional advantage that you're able to get up and walk around. On board the train, there's a cafeteria where you could buy a coffee, albeit instant, lunch and drinks, including wine or beer. The NSW TrainLine staff were professional and courteous, and I congratulate them on their efforts. Although I wouldn't swap it for driving to Canberra, it's definitely an option to try even though the train runs on diesel fuel.