The last item of 3’6” gauge rolling stock, which had been stored at the old Germiston Steam Depot, the ex SAR Cowans and Sheldon 80 ton steam crane number 578, has finally arrived at Sandstone after weather delays at the Depot and a change required of the multi axle trailer to transport this 125 ton piece of South African railway history. Safely now at Sandstone, it will join the display of locomotives and other rolling stock recently moved from Bloemfontein and Germiston.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41TTVm1iXTE

James Attwell is a professional photographer who developed a love of steam from his father, Tony Attwell. James has produced a wonderful photo gallery from the recent steam festival at Sandstone as well as an excellent short video of the event. You can contact James on e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

After our story on 3 November, at the start of the locomotive moves from Germiston to Ficksburg, we have now completed this massive operation with the  3’6” gauge locomotives and rolling stock in position at Sandstone’s new display area. Click here to see the full story.

The Sandstone Grafton Steam Crane, dating from 1950, has arrived at Sandstone after being delayed by blocked track at Bloemfontein Depot. In June 2009, this crane in Bloemfontein was in danger of being scrapped with a number of other redundant units. Sandstone secured its future and had it moved into the Sandstone security area at Bloemfontein Depot.