Clive Smith, from the UK, spotted a notable feature of our Sherman Tank. Click her to read more.

15E 2878 between Modderpoort & Kilmarnock 1996 Picture by Dennis Moore

The scenic railway line from Bloemfontein in the west, to Bethlehem in the east, has long been considered as one of the most spectacular railway lines for steam photography in South Africa and indeed, in the world. Steam haulage on the line ended in 1987 and since then the line has declined into a shadow of its former self with no through trains and limited traffic at each end. The busiest section these days is probably the line to Lesotho from Bloemfontein via Marseilles.

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.