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SSA Special Service Car

20.7.1986 Keswick SSA260 Special Service car 26.1.2002 Keswick - lounge area SSA260

SSA 260

Stainless steel, air conditioned, "Special Service" car built by "Commonwealth Engineering". Contract No. 2904-1967-68.

During the Australian National era this car was referred to as The Chairman's Car rather than its original designation, which was that of Governor General's Car. This seems to have come about because of the refurbishment of the original Governor General's Car SSAF 27.



3.3.1969Entered service
1980Used on the inaugural Indian Pacific to provide accomodation for the Governor General.
5.5.1982Redecorated interior, new carpets, curtains and upholstery.
9.8.1987To broad gauge.
-To standard gauge.
1.4.1997On Australian National passenger division operational list.
1.11.1997To Great Southern Railway.
2002-03Sold to a third party and "Leased Back" by Great Southern Railway [Serco Group Report].
1.2.2004On first "Ghan" to Darwin.
2019Interior stripped and rebuilt as 4 berth Platinum Sleeping car with lounge area at one end by Journey Beyond Rail Experience. Retained coding "SSA 260".