Steam Locomotive A67 is performing well and has been used on most operating days, apart from when the weather has been particularly bleak. It is currently receiving new tank lids as the ones it currently uses were borrowed from D6.
The recommissioning of TR 81 and Crane 287 went well on the 9th of March. Euan McQueen (Chairman of the Rail Heritage Trust) gave a most interesting address and the crane demonstrated a little of its capabilities. It was great to see a number of less active members in attendance, particularly those not resident in the city.
The new cladding has been fitted to the northern end and half of the eastern side of box wagon K610. It will be painted to match the rest of the vehicle over the next week. Work has started on refurbishing the last section of body framing. The door has been removed to give better access and the damaged timber has been removed. Work is continuing on the roof and it is hoped to have the new roof covering fitted in the next couple of months.
Northern end of K610 prior to the cladding being fitted.
The new coal shed has been moved into position and painted. It is now in use and seems to be well liked by steam locomotive crews.
One rail and several sleepers have been replaced in the north yard portion of our site. The spouting and roof has been receiving attention on the workshop and storage buildings.
The next section of rotten cladding has been removed from cattle wagon T175 and numerous small components have been repaired or replaced and refitted. The second main door is now ready to be fitted and work should commence on the third door quite soon.
Motor Trolley WW 7079 (4 man, wooden frame) has had the bent axle it arrived with replaced and some rotten and damaged timber has been repaired or replaced as necessary. Some minor repairs and maintenance have been made to the mechanical aspects of the trolley and it is now serviceable although its appearance leaves a little to be desired. The overhaul of WW 7020 (rubber tyred signals trolley) is also preceding well. It has had the rot and damage to the body repaired and it has been repainted. We have repaired the motor and it has run, possibly for the first time in over a decade. Once a replacement wheel has been found, work will concentrate on rewiring the trolley and fitting the gearbox.
The bunks in K543 have been painted, effectively completing the interior fitout and returning it to its 1940's look from the 1960's Tool Hut look it had when it first returned to service.
The society renewed its call for the Dunedin City Council to facilitate the further development of the societies activities. Representation was made to the Finance and Strategy Committee, and our submission was very well received by the Councilors and the media. A number of positive and thoughtful questions were asked by the councilors and a well written article and colour photo appeared in the Otago Daily Times a few days later. The society intends to continue working with the council toward enhancing our activities and developing a longer railway line.