New Walking Tours Announced for 2024
The Hornsby Shire Historical Society invites residents and history enthusiasts to experience history blended storytelling with historian and author Tim Sowden (author of Zig Zag Away).
Opening in November and December, three new community walks tracing the route from Thornleigh Station towards Zig Zag Creek which opens up onto the site of a 19th century quarry and long forgotten township.
Originally, the Thornleigh Zig Zag was intended to be temporary and was to remain small in its construction, however in turn it played a vital role in the function of the Great Northern Railway. Due to steep terrain, the only way the railway could access the quarry was via Zig Zag, much like the well-known Zig Zags in the Blue Mountains.
Thus, the Thornleigh Zig Zag became essential during construction of the Great Northern Railway from Strathfield to Hawkesbury River, supplying crushed rock for the track ballast.
The Hornsby Shire Historical Society welcomes one and all to delve into the mysteries of the Thornleigh Zig Zag Railway and announces the accompanying reprint of Tim Sowden’s novel, Zig Zag Away.
“The runaway popularity of the book, these tours and the new sandstone installation and plaques at Thornleigh Station has meant that the story will continue to live on, but it’s important to continue sharing and exploring this history including in these new walks coming up soon,” Mr Sowden stated.
The 24-page book, upon first publication, was written exclusively about the Thornleigh Zig Zag, featuring rare photos including the railways locomotive, a self-guided walking tour and new research and insights from community members, railway experts and local historians. Now, having sold more than 500 copies, Zig Zag Away is now into its fourth print run.
“The Thornleigh Zig Zag Railway is an important site of local history in our community. I strongly encourage our local community to learn more about the railway and tour this local gem,” said Alister Henskens, Member for Wahroonga.
Tour dates and details:
Sunday 10 November 1pm to 3pm
Saturday 16 November 9am to 11am
Saturday 14 December 9am to 11am
Cost: $10 pp.
For more information, visit thornleighzigzag.com.au
