VEREENIGING. – The Vaal Business Corporation (VBC) recently collaborated with the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and Stewarts and Lloyds to restore an old steam engine at the Vaal Teknorama Museum in Vereeniging.

The steam engine, built in 1938 by W.G. Bagnall Ltd in England and initially used by Stewarts and Lloyds of Vereeniging, had fallen into a state of disrepair and rust.

Okkie Jooste a representative of VBC, along with a PRASA representative, inspected the steam engine on October 9 and observed its deteriorated condition.

After conducting research and obtaining an image of its original state, they secured permission from the Vaal Teknorama Museum to repaint the engine.

The restoration work commenced on October 21, involving the removal of old rust from certain sections and the application of an anti-rust primer.

Subsequent painting sessions took place on October 28 and November 4. Jooste, in collaboration with Sedibeng Heritage Management, aims to enhance and maintain heritage sites and historical artifacts through projects like these.

Jooste expressed gratitude to PRASA, essential for the project’s success, the dedicated volunteers who contributed their time over weekends, and Stewarts and Lloyds for sponsoring the paint.

This collaborative effort not only revitalizes a piece of history but also reflects the community’s commitment to preserving and promoting its heritage.