Trudie makes history on the train track
The train and engineering lover will qualify for her license next Sunday.
WHEN Trudie Brits was a little girl, machinery and anything involving engineering, always fascinated her. Forget about dolls and tea sets, her interests lay in electrical components and engineering.
On her list of fascinating machinery were trains which she was always keen to learn how to drive. Now, a few decades later, Brits will make history in becoming the first female driver at the Durban Society of Model Engineers (DSME).
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The club has been running since 1913 and is based at Kellaway Hall, 10 Hinton Grove, Virginia, Durban North, opposite Checkers.
“I am originally from Hluhluwe where I was surrounded by steam locomotives while growing up. I have always had great respect for the mode of transport. I used to bump a free ride to Matubatuba and back, talk to the driver and blow the whistle. When my husband, Jaco, brought me to DSME, it took me down memory lane,” she said.
Both Avoca residents have since become members of DSME and have learnt the ins and outs of trains. Brits however, took it a bit further and has learnt how to drive a train.
“It’s really a dream come true for me. I know these are small trains but the engineering involved blows my mind away. How does a tiny motor pull so much weight?” It’s really fascinating,” she said.
Speaking about her achievement itself, Brits said she was really excited.
“I feel liberated and proud of myself. Engineering and operating heavy machinery is no longer just for men. There are many women who drive trains. If you’re a women who has an interest in trains or who has a daughter who’s interested in trains, bring them to the DSME. Anyone can do whatever they put their minds to,” she added.
DSME is opened to the public every second Sunday of the month. They also do bookings for children’s birthday parties. For more information visit their Facebook page: Kellaway Hall.
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