1
0
Inchanga station, built as a refreshment stop back in 1895 celebrated the return of a very special ‘regular’ when engine no 1486, lovingly known to generations of Durbanites as ‘Maureen’, a 3BR class engine, and the oldest working locomotive in the Umgeni Steam Railway stable at the grand old age of 112, was officially brought back into service after undergoing a twelve-year restoration by dedicated volunteers.
The gleaming paintwork and polished brass reflect the hand-crafted engineering work and dedication that went into bringing this engine back to her former glory, and the team were more than ready to officially announce her ‘rail’ ready.
Crowds gathered to witness the historic moment as Colin Healey, one of the founding members of Umgeni Steam Railway re-christened Maureen with the traditional bottle of champagne across her ‘bow’ before Ashley Peters officially handed over Maureen’s log book to the driver and Chief Mechanical Engineer Simon Anderson.
Maureen will now share the duty of transporting passengers with ‘Wesley’ over the festive season.
The 75-minute trip departs and returns to Inchanga station, stopping at Botha’s Hill for a quick engine turn-around. Visitors to Inchanga station can enjoy perusing the cart market or take in more of the history of rail by wandering through the Station masters House museum and station building itself.
Special Festive season dates are already being booked as eager passengers climb back on board this famous Inchanga choo-choo.
For more information visit Umgeni Steam Railway
