Friends of the Rail Forum

Nathan wrote:Thank you John for recording this most wonderfull railway heritage occasion, the passing out on the theory section of six aspiring steam train drivers.

It is unbelievable to be sitting typing this, to realise what must be every boy’s dream of becoming a steam train driver.

This must surely rate as one of the highlights for the candidates, this year. 8 months of sacrificing Saturday afternoons and Tuesday evenings, getting 5 books of rules and regulations into the old heads and then still filling the remaining spaces with locomotive theory!!

This moment is a special one, not only in passing the theory so far, but to eventually end up amongst the hallowed few who have the opportunity of driving heritage steam train operations in this country.

A very special thanks to lecturers Clifford Avis and Michiel Boshoff for their enthusiasm and teeth gritting to teach old dogs new tricks. To Rovos Rail company who were kind enough to allow the FOTR members to make use of their lecture rooms and final examination room.

A great thanks to examiner Coen Pretorius for coming out and overseeing the examinations.

Lastly, to all the FOTR members who added their support, without which we would still be coach controllers!!

A proud moment indeed and for Steam, heritage and especially Friends Of The Rail.

Regards,

Nathan