Three of the locomotives will be part of the NSW passenger fleet, but the star of the show will be No. 6029, a giant Garratt and the largest steam locomotive ever used in the state.

Details of this unique race were revealed to the Mercury on Tuesday by organiser and train historian Cr Peter Garnham.

“A race with four locomotives over a distance of about 25 kilometres has never been done before anywhere in the world,” Cr Garnham said.

“The Garratt was a major engineering feat of its time and the show this year will be something special, both for enthusiasts and for the public in general.

“This will be the first time the Garratt, coming from Canberra, will ever have been to Maitland for the race.”

Cr Garnham also revealed it was illegal for trains to race each other, so the locomotives will instead be pitted against Tiger Moths flying above them.

“Most people don’t see the planes – they are watching the engines,” he said. 

“And the Garratt is really special and it will be a star attraction.

“All the coal trains on four rail lines between Hanbury Junction east of Sandgate will be shut down for the big race on Sunday, April 10.

“The engines may do about 80km/h and safety of everyone involved in the event is our top priority.”

Cr Garnham said Maitland City Council would spend more than $75,000 extra this year to mark the 30th anniversary of one of the city’s landmark events.

“This has been five years in the planning – the biggest event of its kind ever held here. It’s going to be really special for everyone.”