Trams in Newcastle

The Newcastle Tram System was an extensive network that operated between Newcastle and the outer suburb of Wallsend from 1887–1950. At its peak the line extended from the city to Speers Point and West Wallsend. The service was rarely profitable, and low utilisation for a variety of reasons including the convenience of buses led to it closing and the tracks being removed.

Steam tram operations commenced in Newcastle on 6 July 1887, with a trial run between Newcastle and Plattsburg.

A depot was initially set up on Hunter Street, at Perkins Street. In 1893, the terminal was extended east to Parnell Place and the new larger depot constructed, with the original depot retained for light maintenance and repair work.

Rolling Stock Initially ex-Sydney self-propelled D1 class double decked trams were used on the system. Due to the AA Company rail bridge over (what is now) Hunter Street and the overhead rail bridge to the Lambton Colliery between Hobart and Howe streets, the top deck was removed meaning that the capacity was severely reduced. The self-propelled trams were not popular and were rarely used and eventually removed from service in 1896.

In addition to the self-propelled trams, Baldwin style steam locomotives were used to haul C1 and C2 class trailers. The locomotives originally required two men to operate, but were modified in service to allow for one man operation. The locomotives would haul up to four trailers depending on the demand. Six N Class electric cars were also brought from Sydney. Their electrical parts were removed and they were used as steam trailers, however they were only used on the very busiest days, such as major race meetings. Other rolling stock was also used, including ballast trailers, water trailers, breakdown trailers, coal/coke trailers, a water sprinkler car, hearse cars and ash disposal trucks.

Electrification occurred in the early 1920s, the first electric tram running in October 1923. All lines were fully electric by the end of 1926 except the West Wallsend and Speers Point branch lines, which remained steam operated until they were closed.

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