 Following the completion of the standard gauge line between Melbourne and Albury in April 1962 the "Spirit of Progress" was extended to Sydney.The "Spirit of Progress" ushered in a standard of passenger train speed and comfort not previously seen in Australia.Its introduction in November 1937 marked the culmination of many years of preparatory work by the Victorian Railways, from the laying of heavier rail on the North East line, introduction of Automatic Staff Exchange apparatus to allow continuous high speed running between track sections, introduction of high-powered three-cylinder Pacific locomotives, and the testing of air conditioning equipment on passenger rolling stock.