Chris Brooks, operational manager of New Cape Central Railway (NCCR), was in awe of the volunteers’ dedication to preserve steam heritage.
On Facebook, he wrote the locomotive “carved a triumphant path through the South African landscape. This preserved relic of mechanical prowess stood tall and proud, its sturdy frame and gleaming surfaces a testament to a bygone era’s enduring spirit.
“Mr Peter Odell, a seasoned veteran of the rails, guided it with seasoned expertise; every lever-pull and whistle-blast echoing a celebration of its heritage. As he guided the locomotive along the familiar rails, he felt a swell of pride knowing that its journey was not an end but a continuation – a living testament to the perseverance of those who had built and operated such marvels.
“As the locomotive approached Bloemfontein, his heart swelled with a sense of triumph. The cheers and applause from the onlookers resonated as a chorus of appreciation for this enduring symbol of industrial heritage.” – Charné Kemp
