Product Description: VHAY Soda Ash Hopper in V/Line Livery
The VHAY Soda Ash Hopper is a finely detailed model representing the specialized wagons used for transporting soda ash—a key ingredient in glass manufacturing—across Victoria. Presented in V/Line's iconic green and yellow livery, this model... Read More
Product Description: VHAY Soda Ash Hopper in V/Line Livery
The VHAY Soda Ash Hopper is a finely detailed model representing the specialized wagons used for transporting soda ash—a key ingredient in glass manufacturing—across Victoria. Presented in V/Line's iconic green and yellow livery, this model accurately reflects the hopper's design and color scheme during its service years.
Key Features:
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Authentic Design: Designed to mirror the VHAY class wagons, featuring precise dimensions, detailed bodywork, and accurate paintwork.
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V/Line Livery: Presented in V/Line's green and yellow colors, complete with Freight Victoria logos, reflecting the company's branding during the late 1970s and 1980s.
Historical Context:
In late 1977, Victorian Railways introduced the JAF class wagons, specifically designed for transporting soda ash used in glass production. Numbered 501 to 510, these wagons were unloaded at the ICI glass plant in Yarraville. Initially designated as JAX, the code was later changed to JAF due to interstate operational considerations.
In 1979, these wagons were reclassified to VHAY under V/Line's new classification system. By 1987/88, they were further reclassified to VHAF as part of the standardization of the four-letter code system. As soda ash traffic declined, many of these wagons were modified for other uses, including transporting cement and fertilizer.
