Photographs by Geoff Cooke http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/ 21 rows en-gb 60 South Africa- Koedoespoort Works Visit http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1759924.html The RSSA arranged a visit to the Transnet Koedoespoort Workshops to see the assembly line for the Class 39 Diesel Electic locomotives and the Class 6E upgrade. Other locomotives were seen in the yard. Saturday 19 September 2009: The RSSA arranged a visit to the Transnet Koedoespoort Workshops to see the assembly line for the Class 39 Diesel Electic locomotives and the Class 6E upgrade. Other locomotives were seen in the yard.

#482 at the works entance #39-212 and sisters outside the assembly shop. 8E # 8088 #18 127 The frame of a new 29 Class. Sandboxes, pipes etc are assembled before the frame are turned over.

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]]> Sat Sep 19 2009 South Africa - Narrow Gauge Tour 2009 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1707112.html The 2009 SA Narrow Gauge tour offered a similar programme to the 2008 one, but the weather was different with more cloud. Sandstone had restored a second NG6 Lawley, and at last we had steam back on the Avontuur Line. Saturday 2 May 2009: The 2009 SA Narrow Gauge tour offered a similar programme to the 2008 one, but the weather was different with more cloud. Sandstone had restored a second NG6 Lawley, and at last we had steam back on the Avontuur Line.

NG15 # 119 performs on a SAR era freight charter between Assegaaibosch and Humansdorp. NG15 # 119 rounds a curve on an SAR era freight charter between Assegaaibosch and Humansdorp. NG15 # 119 between Assegaaibosch and Humansdorp. NGG16 # 153 at Sanstone Estates. NGG16 # 153 near Grootdraai on the Sandstone Estates. NGG 13 # 49 at Sandstone Estates. NGG13 # 49 on the Grootdraai Loop. Sandstone Estates. NGG13 # 49 on the Grootdraai Loop. Sandstone Estates. NGG16 # 153 on the Sandstone Estates. Close escort with a Shermaqn Tank. Sandstone Estates. NGG13 # 49 and NGG16 # 153 at the Sandstone Estates. NGG13 # 49 and NGG16 # 153 climb the bank at the Sandstone Estates. NGG13 # 49 and NGG16 # 153 at Sandstone. Cleaning fire at Vailima. Sandstone Estates. NG15 #17 at Sandstone Estates. NG15 # 17 on the Sandstone Estates. NG15 # 17 on the Sandstone Estates. NG15 # 17 passes the water tank at Mooihoek. Sandstone Estates. Two Lawleys before sunrise at Sandstone Estates. Steam. A Lawley at Sandstone. NG6 # 97 soon after sunrise on the Sandstone Estate. NG6 # 106 and 97 climb the bank towards Mooihoek at Sandstone Estates. NG6 # 106 climbs the bank to Mooihoek. # 97 follows with a mixed train. Sandstone Estates. NG6 # 106 and 97 at Mooihoek at Sandstone Estates. NG6 # 97 at Sandstone Estates. NG6 # 106 and 97 pass the Sandstone Estate's trek oxen. NG6 # 106 and 97 at Mooihoek Junction on the Sandstone Estate. NG4 #16 at Pandora's Pond. Sandstone Estates. NG4 #16 at the level crossing. Storm clouds gathering. Sandstone Estates. NG4 #16 at the level crossing. Sandstone Estates. NG4 climbing through the trees towards Vailima. Sandstone Estates. Taking water at Vailima. Sandstone Estates. Climbing the bank past the School. Sandstone Estates. Kids having fun. Sandstone Estates. Spectators. Sandstone. NG4 #16 at sunset. Sandstone. The Fowler tank and the Barclay tender tank just before sunrise at Sandstone Estates. The Fowler tank and the Barclay tender tank at Sandstone Estates. The Fowler tank just after sunrise at Sandstone Estates. Four happy girls. Sandstone Estates. The crew from Sandstone and Reefsteamers. Sandstone Estates. Some of the tour participants meet the crew. Sandstone Estates. Reefsteamers and the W&LLR. Sandstone Estates. 19D #2669 at Creighton Station. 19D #2669 near Creighton, en route to Riverside. 19D #2669 between Creighton and Riverside. Steam and Aloes. Creighton to Riverside. Steam and Aloes. Creighton to Riverside. Bridge over the Umzimkulu River between Creighton and Riverside. 19D #2669 near Riverside.

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]]> Sat May 2 2009 Portugal http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1663656.html The results of a short visit to Portugal in 1974. The visit centred on lines where steam was still active. Sunday 2 June 1974: The results of a short visit to Portugal in 1974. The visit centred on lines where steam was still active.

E22 leaving Viseu. 03 June 1974. Lisbon tram # 375. 02 June 1974 Horse and cart in Lisbon. 02 June 1974. E97 and E123 on shed at Viseu. 03 June 1974. E133 arriving at Albergaria. 04 June 1974. E211 o shed at Espinho on 04 June 1974. E132 on shed at Espinho. 04 June 1974. Railcar on Espinho turntable. 04 June 1974. Coaling E132 at Espinho. 04 June 1974. Electric # 2504 at Espinho. 04 June 1974. Diesel Electric #1803 at Espinho. 04 June 1974. E211 leaving Espinho. 04 June 1974. E101 arriving at Senhora De Hora from Porto. 04 June 1974. E94 shunting at Senhora De Hora. 04 June 1974. E144 arriving at Senhora De Hora. 04 Ju ne 1974. E144 and a diesel railcar at Senhora De Hora. 04 June 1974. E86 arrives at Senhora De Hora. 04 June 1974. E141 arrives at Senhora De Hora. 04 June 1974. E168 at Senhora De Hora. 04 June 1974. E141 at Porto Trindade. 04 June 1974. E91 at Porto Trindade. 08 June 1974. 4-6-0T Number E123 and a Diesel Railcar at Santa Comba Dao. 03 June 1974. E207 and E214 on shed at Chaves. 05 June 1974. E181 crossing with E214 at Samarda. 06 June 1974. E207 crossing with E214 at Alvacoes. 06 June 1974. Broad Gauge #718 on shed at Regua on 06 June 1974. E206 on shed at Regua. 06 June 1974. Number 708, E205 and E206 on shed at Regua. 06 June 1974. Number 294 taking water at Regua Shed on 06 June 1974. Number 294 on Regua turntable. 06 June 1974. Number 294 on the Regua turntable. 06 June 1974. Number 294 beside the Douro River. 06 June 1974. Number 284 ariving at Tua. 07 June 1974. Number 284 at Tua. 07 June 1974. Number 295 arrives at Tua. 07 June 1974. Number 074 shunting at Regua. 07 June 1974. E1 shunting at Regua. 07 June 1974. A view of Regua shed. 07 June 1974. Number 075 at Porto Campnha. 08 June 1974. Number 093 departing from Porto Campanha on 08 June 1974. Number 095 shunting alongside Electric number 382601 at Porto Campanha. 08 June 1974. Numbers 1404 and 2569 at Porto Campanha. 08 June 1974. A view of Porto with trams and a red letter box. 08 June 1974. E144 at Porto Trindade. 08 June 1974. The Tram Depot at Boavista on 08 June 1974. E101 at Boavista. 08 June 1974. E161 at Boavista. 08 June 1974. A Porto tram on 08 June 1974. E141 at Boavista. 08 June 1974. Broad Gauge number 002 at Porto Contumil Shed. 08 June 1974.

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]]> Sun Jun 2 1974 Zimbabwe - Mutare NRZ Workshops http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1619997.html The National Railways of Zimbabwe workshops in Mutare maintained English Electric and Brush locomotives. The workshop now maintains American General Electric locomotives. Tuesday 26 April 2005: The National Railways of Zimbabwe workshops in Mutare maintained English Electric and Brush locomotives. The workshop now maintains American General Electric locomotives.

The stores have a warehouse full of English Electric and Brush Electric spares. All catalogued and cared for, although the locomotives themselves are all scrapped. More English Electric spares. A gold mine for English Electric preservationists. A Class DE6, GE type U20C, undergoing a gerneral overhaul and engine change. DE9 #1961, a General Electric U11B, undergoing repair at the Mutare Workshops. Class DE6 #1607, GE Type U20C, stripped down for an engine change and overhaul. DE9 # 1961 DE9 # 1956, a GE Type U11B, undergoing overhaul. Waiting for attention outside the workshops. DE2 #1200 belongs to the Bulawayo Railway Museum. It was in the Mutare Workshops to see if it coukd be made opperable, using scrapped #1225 for parts. The project was not implimented. This one is obvious! DE2 #1225 in Mutare Workshops.

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]]> Tue Apr 26 2005 Zimbabwe - Mutare Transport Museum http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1619503.html Zimbabwe's Transport Museum is in the City if Mutare. Some of the transport exhibits are shown here. Tuesday 26 April 2005: Zimbabwe's Transport Museum is in the City if Mutare. Some of the transport exhibits are shown here.

Half cab bus. Not a partcularly good preservation effort. Half cab bus A row of tractors are displayed, sorry I cannot identify them, but they may interest some viewers! Builders plate for Peckett 0-6-0 tank Mary Mary, ex Selukwe Peak Mine Railway Mary. Ex Selukwe Peak Mine Railway Mary. Ex Selukwe Peak Mine Railway Mary. Ex Sepukwe Peak Mine Railway The first tractor in Rhodesia Merryweather fire engine The main hall display includes a number of animal drawn vehicles alongside this Rickshaw. Note the steam dome for 0-6-0T Mary, stored inside to avoid theft. Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum Bow McLachlan Traction Engine, displayed outside the Mutare Museum

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]]> Tue Apr 26 2005 Rhodesia - Around Gwelo. 1977. http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1594189.html A brief visit to Gwelo (Gweru) in 1977 saw Class 14A, 15th, 16A Class and 20th Class Garratts on shed, along with a few 12th Class 4-8-2's that were already set aside. Saturday 18 June 1977: A brief visit to Gwelo (Gweru) in 1977 saw Class 14A, 15th, 16A Class and 20th Class Garratts on shed, along with a few 12th Class 4-8-2's that were already set aside.

20A Class #756 at Gwelo on 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 at Gwelo on 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 at Gwelo on 18 June 1977. 12th Class #254, 173, 208 and 250 set aside at Dabuka on 18 June 1977. 15th Class #419 and Class 16A #638 at Gwelo Shed on 18 June 1977. 15th Class #386 and 20A Class #756 at Gewlo Shed on 18 June 1977. #756 would be rebuilt and renumbered #750 'Bembezi'. DE6 #1605 leaves Gwelo past 20A Class #756 on 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 prepares to leave Gwelo as Class 14A #508 shunts. 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 prepares to leave Gwelo as Class 14A #508 shunts. 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 passes Willoughbys Siding en-route to Bulawayo. 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 passes Makati Siding en-route to Bulawayo. The siding is being extended to allow trains to pass without stopping. The line from Dabuka to Somabula was the busiest single track section on the railway. 18 June 1977. 20th Class #709 storms out of Willoughbys Siding on an overcast day. 19 June 1977. 20th Class #709 storms out of Willoughbys Siding on an overcast day. 19 June 1977. 20th Class #709 storms out of Willoughbys Siding. #709 was rebuilt and renumbered # 732, 'Amavani'. 19 June 1977. Class 16A #626 on Gwelo Shed. 19 June 1977. 15th Class #414, 20th Class #709 and DE9 #1958 at Gewlo Shed on 19 June 1977. 15th Class #386 at Gwelo. 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 and 15th Class # 386 at Gwelo Shed. 18 June 1977. 20A Class #756 and 15th Class #386 at Gwelo Shed. 18 June 1977.

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]]> Sat Jun 18 1977 South Africa - Narrow Gauge Tour http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1516461.html Geoff's Trains Ltd ran a tour to the Narrow Gauge railways of South Africa in May 2008. Some of the photographic results are shown here. Sunday 11 May 2008: Geoff's Trains Ltd ran a tour to the Narrow Gauge railways of South Africa in May 2008. Some of the photographic results are shown here.

Morning action at Sandstone. Two NGG16 Garratts break the morning silence. 12 May 2008. Double headed NGG16. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. Topped and tailed with NGG16's. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NGG16 reflections. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. Diesel freight heading to Bethlehem passing double headed NGG16's. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. Double headed NGG16's. Sandsone. 12 May 2008. Double headed NGG16's. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NG4. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NG4. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NG4. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NG4. Sandstone. 12 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG6 #106. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG15 # 17. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG15 #17. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG15 #17. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. NG15 #17. Sandstone. 13 May 2008. Feldbahn #2. Sunrise. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. Feldbahn #2 with tractor. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. Pecket #14. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. Feldbahn #2. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. Pecket #14. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. Feldbahn #2. Sandstone. 14 May 2008. 19D #2669 at Creighton. 15 May 2008. 19D # 2669. 15 May 2008. 19D #2669. 15 May 2008. 19D #2669. 15 May 2008. Diesel freight with 4 x Calss 35 locomotives at Riverside. 15 May 2008. 19D #2669 en route to Donnybrook. 15 May 2008. 19D #2669 en route to Donnybrook. 15 May 2008. NGG11 near Ixopo. 16 May 2008. NGG11 in the forest near Ixopo. 16 May 2008. NGG11. 16 May 2008. NGG11. 16 May 2008. NGG11. 16 May 2008. Avonside #2038 near Ncalu. 17 May 2008. Avonside #2038 in the sugar cane fields near Ncalu. 17 May 2008. Avonside #2038 and UVE 2 near Ncalu. 17 May 2008. UVE 2 near Ncalu. 17 May 2008. Avonside #2038. 17 May 2008. UVE 2 near the end of the line past Ncalu. 17 May 2008. Class 19D at Umkomaas, the last South African industrial steam. NG15 #119 at Humewood Depot. A few months from completion, this locomotive should be on the 2009 tour. 18 May 2008. Derelict diesel at Humewood Road steam shed. 18 May 2008. Humewood Road Steam Shed. 18 May 2008. Humewood Diesel Depot. 19 May 2008.

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]]> Sun May 11 2008 Rhodesia -- Eastern Area - 1972 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1468060.html Scans of slides take in 1972 in the Eastern region of the Rhodesia Railways. This was the last year that the steam shed was open, it also saw the arrival of a number of sanctions busting diesels that worked alongside the older British and American classes. Saturday 1 January 1972: Scans of slides take in 1972 in the Eastern region of the Rhodesia Railways. This was the last year that the steam shed was open, it also saw the arrival of a number of sanctions busting diesels that worked alongside the older British and American classes.

DE6 #1603 on Train 3 and DE6 #1606 and 1608 on Train23 waiting to leave Salisbury on 08 January 1972. 14th Class #500 and Class 16A #627 at Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. Class 16A #639 at Salisburt Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. 12th Class #258, 14th Class #500, CLass 16A# 627 and 639 at Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. 12th Class #258 at Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. Class 16A #635, 636 and 638 with 12th Class #248. Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. 14th Class #500. Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972 DE1 #1004 at Salisbury East. 29 April 1972. 14th Class #506 at Salisbury East. 29 April 1972. 14th Class #500. Shunting at Salisbury. 29 April 1972. Class 16A #635 shunting at Salisbury. 29 April 1972. DE3 #1300 arrives in Salisbury, whilst DE4 #1400 waits to leave for Umtali. 29 April 1972. DE4 #1411 with Train 6 at Matinidza. 07 May 1972. 12th Class #258. Salisbury Steam Shed. 08 January 1972. DE4 # 1411 on Train 6 crosses two Class DE3's on Train 23 at Baddley Siding on 07 May 1972. DE2 #1234 and 1228 pass through Rusapi Station on 07 May 1972. DE6 # 1606 with Train 3 between Lochinvar and Salisbury. 27 May 1972. DH1 #3103 at Lochinvar on 27 May 1972. DE6 #1607 near Lochinvar on 27 May 1972. DE6 # 1604 at Hunyani on 20 May 1972. DE2 #1228 at Salisbury Station on 22 May 1972. 12th Class #251 crossing the Hunyani Bridge on Train 406. 27 May 1972. DE7 #1710 and 12th Class #248 cross at Somerby Siding. 08 January 1972 DE2 #1210 at Chigwell Siding. 29 July 1972. DE6 #1607 at Gatooma Station on 29 July 1972. Class 9B #82 returning to Sherwood following a washout at Gwelo. A shunt locomotive was stationed there to shunt the power station. 29 July 1972. 12t Class #248 at Norton. 08 January 1972. 20th Class #716 at Hunters Road level crossing, long before the flyover bridge was built. These locomotives were normally confimed to the Bulawayo side of Gwelo. The two railwaymen standing at the crossing were the crew from #82, enjoying a lift back to Gwelo from Sherwood. 29 July 1972. 12th Class #248 at Lydiate Siding. 08 January 1972. DE6 #1605 thunders through Hartley Station. 30 July 1972. DE6 #1605 crossing Hunyani Bridge. 08 January 1972. Class 9B #95 was the workshop sunter in Umtali on 12 August 1972. The workshop maintained diesels, presumably the reason for the interesting colour scheme. A CFM railcar arrives in Umtali from Mozambique. 12 August 1972. DE6 #1605 and 1603 with a very lightbtrain comprising only a guards van at Murahwa Siding near Umtali. 13 August 1972. DE6 #1607 at Willowvale on 19 August 1972. DE1 #3106 with Train 32 at Willowvale. 19 August 1972. DE4 #1409 and DE3 #1307 climb out of Salisbury with Train 23, heading for Umtali. 20 August 1972. 14th Class #502 at Salisbury East. 09 January 1972. DE7 #1705 on Train 14, the lunchtime mixed from Salisbury to Gwelo and Bulawayo at Willowvale. 20 August 1972. Class 16A #637 at Whitecliffe on the Shamva Branch north of Salisbury. 26 August 1972. DE1 #1002 at beatrice Road between Salisbury and Lochinvar. 27 August 1972. DE6 #1608 on Train 14 at Beatrice Road with the Salisbury Steam Shed in the background behind the gum trees. 27 August 1972. Class 16A #629. Salisbury East. 09 January 1972. An unknown 12th Class crossing the Hunyani Bridge with the Norton pickup goods train. 09 September 1972. DE6 #1606 approaching Salisbury with Train 3, the overnight mail from Bualwayo. DE6 #1609 with DE2 #1202 in the load of Train 31 between Marimba and Marova Sidings. 10 September 1972. DE6 # 1603 at Somerby Siding. 10 September 1972 Class 16A Garratts #636 and 627 at Salisbury Steam Shed. 11 September 1972 Class 16A Garratt # 636 at Salisbury Steam Shed. 11 September 1972 An unknown DE3 on Train 34 crossing the Hunyani Bridge. 05 February 1972.

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]]> Sat Jan 1 1972 Botswana - BCL Mine - 2007 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1459622.html Our tour to Zimbabwe visited the BCL mine at Selebe Phikwe en route from South Africa. Sunday 15 July 2007: Our tour to Zimbabwe visited the BCL mine at Selebe Phikwe en route from South Africa.

BCL #806. An ex-SAR Class 19D at the Selebe Phikwe water tank. 15 July 2007. BCL #804, an ex-Rhodesia Railways locomotive, taking empty hoppers to the Selebe Shaft. 15 July 2007. #804 passing the junction to Selebe North Shaft. 15 July 2007. #804 was steaming so poorly that stops were made for blowups every few kilometres. The sun set before reaching the shaft. 15 July 2007. Early morning at the Selebe water tank. #806 pushes #804 back to the steam shed. 16 July 2007. #806 at the locomotive depot. 16 July 2007. #806 at the locomotive depot. 16 July 2007. An appropriate welcome to Selebe Shaft. 16 July 2007. Later in the morning #806 took hoppers to Selebe Shaft. Here, she pulls the hoppers under the loading bin. 16 July 2007. #806 loading hoppers at Selebe Shaft. 16 July 2007. #806 returning to the unloading hopper. Running downhill, the loaded trains steamed far better than the empty movement. 16 July 2007. Class 14A Garratt #810. On cold standby, it was seen working on a later visit in 2007. 16 July 2007. Running repairs to #807. 16 July 2007. #806 taking water. 16 July 2007.

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]]> Sun Jul 15 2007 Botswana - BCL Mine - 2005 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1457955.html Following our tour of Zimbabwe, we visited te BCL Mine at Selebe Phikwe in Botswana. Friday 8 July 2005: Following our tour of Zimbabwe, we visited te BCL Mine at Selebe Phikwe in Botswana.

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]]> Fri Jul 8 2005 Zimbabwe - Garratts to Victoria Falls 2005 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1457542.html In July 2005 Geoff's Trains ran a tour to Zimbabwe for Globe Steam. Botswana was also included, and will feature as a separate collection. Saturday 2 July 2005: In July 2005 Geoff's Trains ran a tour to Zimbabwe for Globe Steam. Botswana was also included, and will feature as a separate collection.

Class 14A #512 waits at Victoria Falls as two South African Class 34 diesels pass on a Zambia bound freight. 02 July 2005. Class 14A #512, owned by the Victoria Falls Safari Express, at Victoria Falls on 02 July 2005. #512 at Victoria Falls station. 02 July 2005. #512 at Victoria Falls Station. 02 July 2005. #512 between Victoria Falls station and the Bridge. 02 July 2005. #512 heading down to the Victoria Falls Bridge. 02 July 2005. 14A #512 on the Victoria Falls Bridge. 02 July 2005. #512 near Mubiya Siding at sunset. 02 July 2005. Class 15A #11, owned by Hwange Colliery Ltd., running around the horseshoe between Tajintunda and New Hwange. 03 July 2005. Class 15A #11 exiting the tunnel. 03 July 2005. #11 passing a Baobab tree between Old Hwange Station and Thomson Junction. 03 July 2005. #11 approaching Thompson Junction. 03 July 2005. A cold, overcast morning at the Bulawayo Steam Depot. 05 July 2005. Class 14A #525 passing the disused Westgate Signal Cabin. 05 July 2005. #525 passing Mpopoma on the double track main line to Heany Junction. 05 July 2005. #525 storms past Northalt on the outskirts of Bulawayo. 05 July 2005. Class 16A #612 makes a reflection in the Bulawayo Steam Depot. 06 July 2005. General Electric U20C classified by the railway as DE6 #1604 shunts the yard at Mpopoma in Bulawayo on 06 July 2005. Class 15A #416 runs through Luveve Siding at the end of the Bulawayo commuter belt. 06 July 2005. #416 at Morgans Siding, en - route to Sawmills on the Victoria Falls line. 06 July 2005. #416 near Morgans. 06 July 2005. #416 at Nyamandhlovu. 06 July 2005. Thundering up Tenela Bank. #416 on 06 July 2005. Taking water at Nyamandhlovu. Sunset, 06 July 2005. #416 at Nyamandhlovu.06 July 2005. Class 15A # 416 at Figtree on the Bulawayo to Plumtree line. 07 July 2005. #416 arriving at Khame Station. 07 July 2005.

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]]> Sat Jul 2 2005 Zambia - Zambezi Sawmills line. 1994. http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1453906.html In 1994 we made three attempts to run our train to Mulobezi at the end of the old Zambezi Sawmills logging railway. The third attempt was successfull. Tuesday 12 July 1994: In 1994 we made three attempts to run our train to Mulobezi at the end of the old Zambezi Sawmills logging railway. The third attempt was successfull.

Livingstone Station. Ready for our branch line adventure. 21 August 1994. Sunset at Kalamba. 21 August 1994. The driver switched the two water tanks, replacing the one with a leak and te one with a smaller leak. 21 August 1994. Star attraction at Katemwa. #204 with the locals, who had not seen a steam locomotive on the line in the past 20 years.22 August 1994. Cleaning fire. #204 at Katemwa. We were now about 15 hours late. 22 August 1994. Finally, we made it. Mulobezi - just 16 hours late. 22 August 1994. There were a number of locomotives dumped around the yard. They had not moved in a while. 22 August 1994. The following morning we were standing at Saala. The locomotive had vanished. During the night the yoke pin had failed, splitting the tender from the locomotive and emptying most of the water onto the sand. #204 had gone light engine to Ngwezi, 60 km away, for water. 23 August 1994. Two weeks after the first attempt, we had planned to run a second tour to Mulobezi. 12th Class #204 wad been erailed and abandoned en-route during the first attempt, and was still trapped on the line. Unable to run or even be towed backwards, a diesel had to push it all of the way to Mulobezi where it could be turned on the triangle prior to being towed back to Livingstone. For this second trip we used 10th Class #156. We could only go as far as the Railway Museum on the outskirts of Livingstone and so, on a much shorter trip, we once more left Victoria Falls. 26 July 1994. 10th Class #156 rolls past the Victoria Falls name board, bracketed by Baobab trees. 26 July 1994. #156 crosses the Victoria Falls Bridge into Zambia. 26 July 1994. #156 at the Livingstone Railway Museum, located at the former Zambezi Sawmills locomotive depot. 26 July 1994. The museum curator, finding out if the train was near. 26 July 1994. Zambia Railways 12th Class #204 at Victoria Falls Station prior to departure f our first attempt to reach Mulobezi. 12 July 1994. Crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge from Zimbabwe into Zambia. 12 July 1994. Having arrived at Ngwezi Siding overnight, #204 had travelled about 70 km down the Mulobezi Branch from Livingstone overnight. 13 July 1994. #204 standing at the Ngwezi water tank. A garden hose slowly filled the tank, but so slowly that the locomotive used it faster. We were slowly running out of water. 13 July 1994. Slowly running out of water at Ngwezi, a decision had to be made. 13 July 1994. Still waiting. 13 July 1994. Decision made. We cross the Ngwezi River over the new bridge, the old bridge visible on the left. 13 July 1994. #204 bumped and ground down the track. Maximum speed 15 km per hour, with numerous cautions below that. Laid in the 1920's using second hand rail from the Bechuanaland Railway, I was told that the line was still 'under construction'. 13 July 1994. The rail was milled in 1895 and 1896. Most fishplate holes had cracked through, most sleeper keys were missing. The track was so loose that you could move most of the joints with your foot. 13 July 1994. #204 finally gave up 96,5 kilometres from Livingstone. With no water left, the fire was knocked out. 13 July 1994. Abandoned in the bush. The Locomotive Inspector went for help - it took a while. 13 July 1994. The telephone line was faulty - not surprising! The Inspector walked to the next ganger's cottage, borrowed a push trolley, rode to the next station where a phone worked. He called the clerk at Mulobezi, who walked over to the Sawmill, who radioed the Sawmill at Livingstone, who phoned Livingstone signal cabin, who rounded up a crew and diesel locomotive to come to our rescue, 96,5 km away, at a maximum of 15 km per hour. We were there for a while! 13 July 1994. A U15C diesel arrived during the night. We were pulled back towards Livingstone, but only went a few kilometres before #204 derailed, unable to run backwards on the bad track. With #204 abandoned, the rest of the train returned safey to Livingstone. 14 July 1994. We crossed back into Zimbabwe. Another Rail Safaris train was expected from Bulawayo, they were to be welcomed by a dixie band. We arrrived from the wrong direction with the wrong passengers, but the band played anyway - just in case. 14 July 1994. We head south towards Bulawayo, crossing the Bella Vista Ball charter train at Mubiya Siding. 14 July 1994. A third attempt was made to reach Mulobezi. 12th Class #204 had been recovered, and was once more in charge as we headed back into the unknown. 21 August 1994. Crossing the bridge again on 21 August 1994. I had supplied a wagon of coal, replacing the substandard Zambian product. Zambia Railways had found a second water tank car, it had a hole in the bottom of the tank, but it was better than nothing.. 21 August 1994. Leaving the bright lights behind. #204 steps out at 15 km per hour. 21 August 1994. #204 runs through Simonga Siding. 5 hours late. 21 August 1994. Rolling over track milled in 1895. 21 August 1994. During the night we passed reminders that this line was not the most stable. 21 August 1994. Wherever we stopped, crowds gathered. 21 August 1994. Next morning we had arrived at Bombwe, the second watering station. We were now further up the branch than we had reached on the first two attempts. 22 August 1994. Water replenished, we crept over the Bombwe Bridge. It creaked and sagged, but we made it. 22 August 1994. #204 crawling over the Bombwe Bridge that sagged under her weight. 22 August 1994. Rattling along through the Zambian bush. 22 August 1994. There was plenty of time to explore as #204 was readied for the last part of our journey to Mulobezi. 22 August 1994. The locals turned out to greet us. 22 August 1994. This was the first steam locomotive the kids had seen in action. It was also the first foreign train ever to visit the town. 22 August 1994. The kids were fascinated. They had never seen so many white people before. 22 August 1994. A carnival atmosphere in the bush. 22 August 1994. A locomotive graveyard. Mulobezi. 22 August 1994. The bush had been cleared for our visit. Mulobezi. 22 August 1994. The wheel lathe in the Mulobezi railway workshop still had a set of driving wheels ready to be turned. 22 August 1994. At sunset we left Mulobezi. A quick turn around meant that we were only 12 hours late. 22 August 1994. One reason why things went bump in the night. 22 August 1994. Everyone waited patiently for #204 to return. We all knew that she derailed running backwards, and that she would have to run backwards to return. 23 Augus 1994.

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]]> Tue Jul 12 1994 Zimbabwe - Shurugwi Narrow Gauge http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1448839.html The Shurugwi Peak Mine, located at the town of Shurugwi, about 20 km south of Gweru, runs a collection of diesel locomotives manufactured by Prof Engineering, and one Funkey. Thursday 21 April 2005: The Shurugwi Peak Mine, located at the town of Shurugwi, about 20 km south of Gweru, runs a collection of diesel locomotives manufactured by Prof Engineering, and one Funkey.

The only locomotive at Shurugwi that was not made by Prof is this South African made Funkey, close relative to the two Funkeys on the Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways. Being non-standard, it is maintained as a spare locomotive, backing up the two larger Prof machines. Prof #16 standing at the workshops. Three small Prof locomtives are normally fond around the mine works. Cab detail of the Funkey. Prof #9 shunting loaded Chrome wagons onto the weighbridge. The shunter is carried in his own van. #9 moving around the yard. #14 in the yard. Most of the tracks are located inside a triangle, visible here with a rake of passenger coaches, used to take workers to the mine and children to school, also visible. Prof made #2 is the largest locomotive in the fleet. Seen here ready to head out of the yard towards the Peak Mine. A smaller Prof locomotive works as the second 'mainline' loco. Shurugwi yard. Shunting around Shurugwi yard. Arriving with a works train. #2 near the Peak Mine #2 returning to Shuruwi with a load of chrome. #2 approaching Shurugwi.

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]]> Thu Apr 21 2005 Rhodesia - Bulawayo to Mafeking in 1973 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1444337.html A few photographs taken on a journey from Bulawayo in Rhodesia through Botswana to Mafeking in South Africa, a line at that time operated by Rhodesia Railways. Thursday 19 April 1973: A few photographs taken on a journey from Bulawayo in Rhodesia through Botswana to Mafeking in South Africa, a line at that time operated by Rhodesia Railways.

Train 808, the mixed passenger service to Mafeking with 15th Class Garratt #360 waits at Coldridge Siding as Train 809 crosses with DE2 #'s1200 and 1232. 19 April 1973. #360 on Train 808 taking water at Seruli. 19 April 1973. Train 805 with 15th Calss #398 crosses Train 808 with #360 at Hildavale Siding. 20 April 1973. #360 under the Mafeking coaling stage. The Mafeking steam shed was run by South African Railways, but Rhodesia Railways locomotives were serviced and turned around there. 20 April 1973. SAR Class 19D's #'s2758, 2667, 2759 and 2748 at Mafeking Steam Shed. 20 April 1973. Class 19D #2676 at the Mafeking ashpits with #360. 20 April 1973. Train 811, the Mafeking to Bulawayo mixed passenger service, crosses Class 15A #402 at Romathlabame, the border station between South Africa and Botswana. 20 April 1973. 15th Class #356 on Train 820 arrives at Mokgosi Siding. The guard of Train 811 flags them through beside the mechanical points indicator, which shows that the points are set for the loop. 20 April 1973.

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]]> Thu Apr 19 1973 Zimbabwe 2006 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1443793.html Geoff's Trains ran a tour to Zimbabwe in August 2006 with Globe Steam. These photographs are a small selection from that tour. Thursday 10 August 2006: Geoff's Trains ran a tour to Zimbabwe in August 2006 with Globe Steam. These photographs are a small selection from that tour.

Class 15A Garratt 424 watches the sunrise at Figtree on 11 August 2006 #424 running through Figtree. 11 August 2006 #424 leaving Figtree. 11 August 2006 #424 near Westacre. 11 August 2006 #424 near Khami Station. 11 August 2006 #424 passing Umganin. 11 August 2006 Bulawayo steam depot coal stage. 12 August 2006 Class 15A #416 shunting in Bulawayo Station. 12 August 2006 #416 shuunting in Bulawayo. 12 August 2006 Class 14A #525 passing Westgate. 13 August 2006 #252 leaving Mpopoma. 13 August 2006 #525 aproaching Cement Station. 13 August 2006 #525 crossing the Koce River. 13 August 2006 #525 arriving at Cement from Heany Junction. 13 August 2006 Bulawayo Steam Shed. 14 August 2006 Bulawayo Steam Shed P15 section. C;lass 16A #613 being retubed. 14 August 2006 Class 15A #424 approaching Sawmills Station at sunset. 14 August 2006 #416 at Mambanje Siding. 15 August 2006 #416 and DE11 # 2113. 15 August 2006 #424 leads # 416 past a baobab tree near Old Hwange Station. 16 August 2006 Sunset near Zanguja. 16 August 2006 Sunset at Zanguja. 16 August 2006 #416 at Mambanje. 17 August 2006 #416 near Lobangwe. 17 August 2006 #416 at Zanguja Bank. 17 August 2006 #416 on the Victoria Falls Bridge. 18 August 2006 U15C #02-310 passing 12th Class #204 at Livingstone Station. 18 August 2006

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]]> Thu Aug 10 2006 South Africa - Class 91 Diesel Electric to Patensie http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1441360.html The 2 foot gauge railway from Port Elizabeth to Avontuur, including a branch to Patensie, is operated by Class 91 diesel electric locomotives. The Apple Express also runs on these metals using a number of steam locomotives. In September 2007 Apple Express ran a charter train for us from Humewood Road to Patensie and back. None of their steam locomotives was available, and so we used Class 91 # 91-007. Sunday 23 September 2007: The 2 foot gauge railway from Port Elizabeth to Avontuur, including a branch to Patensie, is operated by Class 91 diesel electric locomotives. The Apple Express also runs on these metals using a number of steam locomotives. In September 2007 Apple Express ran a charter train for us from Humewood Road to Patensie and back. None of their steam locomotives was available, and so we used Class 91 # 91-007.

#91007 passing Geduldrivier Halt. Class 91 #91007 crossing Van Staadens Bridge #91007 near Port Elizabeth A small obstruction! Near Hankie station. Locals armed with spades and wellington boots to the rescue. Success! Patensie turntable. Railfan powered. The return journey, near Patensie. Near Patensie Alongside the Gamtoos River Crossing the Gamtoos River Bridge. Wheels at the Humewood Road depot #91001, the only blue locomotive, at Humewood Road depot. Humewood Road depot in the rain. Humewood Road depot in the rain.

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]]> Sun Sep 23 2007 South Africa - The end of 15CA #2054 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1440827.html I found Class 15CA #2054 being cut up at Voorbaai Depot during a tour that I hosted for Ffestiniog Travel. A sad end for a fine locomotive. #2054 was built by the American Locomotive Co in 1926. Thursday 20 September 2007: I found Class 15CA #2054 being cut up at Voorbaai Depot during a tour that I hosted for Ffestiniog Travel. A sad end for a fine locomotive. #2054 was built by the American Locomotive Co in 1926.

#2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007 #2054. Voorbaai. 20 Sep 2007

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]]> Thu Sep 20 2007 South Africa - 2007 Friends of the Rail charters http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1440639.html Friends of the Rail ran two charters in 2007 for Geoff's Trains. The first was to Rooival Power Station, the second to Cullinan Saturday 14 July 2007: Friends of the Rail ran two charters in 2007 for Geoff's Trains. The first was to Rooival Power Station, the second to Cullinan

Class 24 #3654 at Rooival Power Station. 14 July 2007 #3654 in the shadows of Rooival. 14 July 2007 #3654 at Rooival. 14 July 2007 #3654 at Rooival. 14 September 2007 Class 24 #3654 en route to Cullinan. 15 September 2007 #3654 leaving Cullinan. 15 September 2007 #3654 near Cullinan. 15 September 2007 #3654 on the return journey to Capital Park. 15 September 2007

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]]> Sat Jul 14 2007 South Africa - Avontuur Adventurer 2005 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1440608.html The 2005 Avontuur Adventurer tour was operated by the Sandstone Heritage Trust with Geoff's Trains acting as the overseas booking agent. The main tour concerned itself with the 2 foot gauge line from Port Elizabeth to Avontuur. A pre-tour option offered visits to the Sandstone Estate, Paton Country Railway and the Banana Express. Wednesday 31 August 2005: The 2005 Avontuur Adventurer tour was operated by the Sandstone Heritage Trust with Geoff's Trains acting as the overseas booking agent. The main tour concerned itself with the 2 foot gauge line from Port Elizabeth to Avontuur. A pre-tour option offered visits to the Sandstone Estate, Paton Country Railway and the Banana Express.

6th Class #544 preserved at Bethlehem Museum, guarded by a tin Zebra. 31 August 2005 NGG13 #49 at the Sandstone Estates. Sunrise, 01 September 2005 NGG13 #49 at Sandstone. Sunrise on 01 September 2005 NGG13 #49 near Vilima. This was the first passenger train to use the new loop. 01 September 2005 NGG13 #49 near Vailima. 01 September 2005 NG6 #6 at sunrise. Sandstone. 02 September 2005 #6 passing an AEC bus that started life in South Wales. 02 September 2005 #6 strides out on a cloudless day. Sandstone. 02 September 2005 #6 passing cherry blossoms. Sandstone. 02 September 2005 #6 and a Case tractor. Sandstone. 02 September 2005 NGG11 #55 near Ixopo. 03 September 2005 #55 approaching Carisbrooke. Paton Country Railway. 03 September 2005 #55 at Carisbrooke. Paton Country Railway. 03 September 2005 Ex - sugar plantatio locomotives at Ixopo station. 03 September 2005 NGG16 #155 near Port Shepstone. 04 September 2005 #155 approaching Port Shepstone. 04 September 2005. End of another day. #155 at Port Shepstone. 04 September 2005 NGG16 #131 near Port Elizabeth. 06 September 2005 NG15 #17 leaving Humewood Road Station on 07 September 2007 #17 storming through the suburbs of Port Elizabeth. 07 September 2005 #17 crossing the Van Staadens Bridge. 07 September 2005 NG15 #17 at Patensie. 08 September 2005 #17 on the Patensie Branch. 08 September 2005 #17 in the Langkloof. #17 arriving at Heights. 09 September 2005 #17 leaving Joubertina. 09 September 2005 Arriving at Avontuur. 09 September 2005

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]]> Wed Aug 31 2005 Zimbabwe 2007 http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1439431.html A Geoff's Trains tour ran to Zimbabwe in July 2007. Charter steam trains ran around Bulawayo and to Victoria Falls. The tour will be repeated in May 2009. Find the itinerary at www.geoffs-trains.com Tuesday 17 July 2007: A Geoff's Trains tour ran to Zimbabwe in July 2007. Charter steam trains ran around Bulawayo and to Victoria Falls. The tour will be repeated in May 2009. Find the itinerary at www.geoffs-trains.com

Bulawayo steam shed Class 14A Garratt #525 at Mpopoma. 18 July 2007 #525 approaching Cement. 18 July 2007 #525 shunting at Cement Station. 18 July 2007 Happy travellers at Cement. 18 July 2007 15th Class Garratt #424 at Figtree. 19 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt # 424 approaching Figtree. 19 July 2007 Class 15A Garrartt #424 at Marula. 19 July 2007 Fireman on #424 #424 crossing the Khami Bridge. 19 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt 424 and Class 16A Garratt 611 at Tenela on 21 July 2007 Gangers on their trolley. New Hwange Station. 22 July 2007. Class 15A Garratt # 424 at Entuba on 22 July 2007 Class 15A #424 crossing the Lukosi Bridge on 22 July 2007 Class 16A #611 between Tajintunda and New Hwange. 23 July 2007 Class 16A Garratt # 611 crossing the Lukosi Bridge on 23 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt between Tajintunda and New Hwange. 24 July 2007 Class 15A #424 with Baobab Tree. Between Old Hwange Station and Thomson Junction. 24 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt #424 crossing Deka Bridge. 25 July 2007 Class 15A #424 at Matetsi siding. 25 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt at Sambawizi on 25 July 2007 Class 16A Garratt # 611 at Dibangombie. 26 July 2007 Class 15A Garratt on the Victoria Falls Bridge Class 15A Garratt #424 on the Victoria Falls Bridge. 28 July 2007 Victoria Falls from the Zambian bank. 28 July 2007

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]]> Tue Jul 17 2007 Mozambique - The Sena Sugar Estates http://geoff-cooke.fotopic.net/c1439108.html These photographs are scanned from slides taken on a visit to the Sena Sugar Estates on the Zambezi River in Mozambique in 1975. Monday 2 June 1975: These photographs are scanned from slides taken on a visit to the Sena Sugar Estates on the Zambezi River in Mozambique in 1975.

#22 at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 #22 at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 # 8 at Marromeu Shed. 02 June 1975 # 15 at Marromeu Shed. 02 June 1975 #20 at marromeu Shed on 02 June 1975 #5 at Marromeu Shed on 02 June 1975 #19 at Marromeu Shed on 02 June 1975 #1 insider Marromeu Shed on 02 June 1975 #8 at Marromeu Shed on 02 June 1975 #21 shunting at Morromeu on 02 June 1975 #7 shunting at Morromeu on 02 June 1975 #6 shunting at morromeu on 02 June 1975 #7 shunting at Morromeu on 02 June 1975 #6 and 7 at Marromeu on 02 June 1975 Fowler ditcher. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engines at Marromeu on 02 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engines at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engine. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engine. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 #5 at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 #5 passing a Fowler ploughing engine. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engines. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu Railway #3 at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu Railway # 1 set aside at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu Railway #1. Set asside at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu Railway #2. Set aside at Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu Railway #6. Converted to Cape Gauge. 02 June 1975 Caia Marromeu #6 converted to Cape Gauge. Marromeu. 02 June 1975 Fowler Ploughing Engine at Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler water tank. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engines. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler 5 furrow plough. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engines. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engine detail. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler ploughing engine detail. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler works plate #15669. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Wickham trolley. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Baguley #9. Luabo. 03 June 1975 O&K #11. Luabo. 03 June 1975 O&K #11 detail. Luabo. 03 June 1975 O&K #11. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler Tiger traction engine. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler Tiger traction engine. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler Tiger traction engine. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Fowler Tiger traction engine. Luabo. 03 June 1975 Sternwheeler Sternwheeler Sternwheeler Sternwheeler

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]]> Mon Jun 2 1975