| Outback Xplorer | |
| Type: | Passenger train |
| Status: | Operational |
| First: | March 1996 |
| Operator: | NSW TrainLink |
| Formeroperator: | State Rail AuthorityCountrylink |
| Start: | Sydney |
| Stops: | 15 |
| End: | Broken Hill |
| Distance: | 1,125 kilometres |
| Journeytime: | 13 hours |
| Frequency: | weekly |
| Line Used: | Main Western Broken Hill |
| Class: | First class & Economy |
| Seating: | 2x2 configuration |
| Catering: | On-board buffet |
| Baggage: | Overhead racks |
| Stock: | Xplorer |
The Outback Xplorer is an Australian passenger train service operated by NSW TrainLink between Sydney and Broken Hill via the Main Western line. Commencing in March 1996, it was initially a locomotive-pulled service. It ceased in early 2000 due to the poor state of the passenger carriages, but resumed in May 2000 using Xplorer railcars.[1]
CountryLink commenced operating the service in March 1996 honouring a commitment by the Carr State Government to reintroduce a rail service to Broken Hill which had lost its rail service when the Silver City Comet was replaced by a road coach service in November 1989.[2]
Unofficially known as the Outback Express, it was initially formed of 1940s vintage locomotive-hauled HUB/RUB carriages, usually hauled by a Clyde Engineering built 81 class locomotive.[3] In April 2000, the service ceased due to the condition of the carriages.[4]
In May 2000, the service resumed with Xplorer railcars, operating as a set of three with carriage numbering A (first class and buffet car), B (economy) and D (economy with disability access seating area/toilet facilities). Since the introduction of Xplorer railcars, the service runs to Broken Hill on Mondays, returning to Sydney on Tuesdays.