Other than birds and wildlife, I have always had an affinity for trains. Had my parents never decided to defect from my homeland, I would have been a train driver. One of my dreams still is to at least drive a steam loco, or learn how to drive one. MS Train Simulator just doesn't cut it. :D
This image portrays the most famous Aussie trains, the Indian Pacific, linking Sydney with Perth. Lucky for me, I live very close to the main western line. I was precariously hanging on the edge of a stormwater drain, taking the image with one hand as the diesel approached. Maybe overdid the polarizer. Sorry. :(
Nah, I don't know, I am no expert Axel. My best guess is that it travels through such vast, open country that it needs all the warning possible to alert kangaroos, cattle or whatever else may be in its path. To be honest, I never heard it in action, but I am sure it is deafening. :)
Thanks for the comments. Al, it's a 24-85m Canon and I wish it were wider on my 30D. :(