Steam trains have always captured the imagination of both young and old.
There is nothing quite like the huffing and puffing of a locomotive as it pulls a heavy train up a hill.
When the South African Railways cancelled steam on their main lines, a small group of enthusiasts decided to preserve this piece of our history by saving some of the last running steam locomotives in South Africa.
This was the birth of the Reefsteamers Association.
The organisation has a depot based in Germiston, where the magnificent locomotives of yesteryear are lovingly restored in a bustling authentic workshop.
This Saturday, Reefsteamers’ volunteers are having an open day to share their love of trains and their stories about all things steam.
The public is invited to share in the old-world charm by stepping into a vintage world of steam at the Germiston depot.
A beautiful old steam loco will depart from the Rhodesfield Station, in Kempton Park, for Germiston at 9.30am.
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Spend the morning at the depot to see the static displays and experience the blacksmiths in action in the workshop.
There will also be a craft market with unique artisan crafts, food and beverages and entertainment for the children.
Have your Steampunk photo taken in a photo booth and win prizes for the best Steampunk outfit.
At 2.30pm, the loco will chug all the visitors back to Rhodesfield, with an estimated time of arrival of 3pm.
Book your spot now by emailing bookings@reefsteamers.com or calling 062 743 9200.
Alternatively you can buy your ticket on arrival at Rhodesfield, when you board the train.
The cost of the ticket includes pick-up and drop off at Rhodesfield Station and one Steampunk-styled photo.
All proceeds go to the upkeep of the depot and the restoration of the great 100-year-old steam loco, Susan.
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (journalist) leighh@caxton.co.za or Puleng Sekabate pulengs@caxton.co.za.
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