Steam locomotive 5917 has been given the green light to appear at this weekend’s Maitland Toyota Hunter Valley Steamfest, following a four-year repair program.
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Maitland City Council’s events co-ordinator Adam Franks said the engine's rejuvenation had been a lengthy process.
This engine will haul the Singleton excursion on Saturday and the Barrington Bullet and Stroud Road excursions on Sunday.
In March the 5917 was taken to a wheel lathe in Sydney to address an issue with one of its driving wheels. This work was successfully completed, with the engine’s side rods going back on. Work was also completed on the cab floor and the final bricks were placed in the brick arch.
Tickets for the 5917-hauled Singleton, Barrington Bullet and Stroud Road excursions can be purchased by visiting steamfest.com.au, by calling 4931 2877 or in person at the Maitland Visitor Information Centre.
"We are very pleased with the number of tickets sold ahead of this weekend’s event. There are still plenty of great seats left on all our excursions, with the exception of the Great Train Race which sold out this week," said Mr Franks.
Other steam excursions on sale for this weekend’s event include round trips to Branxton and single trips Maitland to Newcastle and Newcastle to Maitland. There will also be an array of steam activities taking place at the Rally Ground including mini steam train rides, vintage machinery, traction and portable steam engine displays and interpretative tours.
Other activities and entertainment on the Steamfest 2014 program include market stalls, face painting, Powerhouse Museum displays, live music and kids amusements.
