DownsSteam The Pride of Toowoomba C16 106 locomotive cleared to run on main tracks

After 25 years and plenty of hard work from dedicated volunteers, a 1914 steam locomotive is up and running, accredited for the main tracks, and steaming to take its first tourists.

A restored 1914 steam locomotive has hit the tracks this week, full steam ahead for its inaugural trip in the next fortnight in a massive effort by the DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum.

Twenty-five years after a promise to get a railway up and going in Toowoomba, dedicated volunteer Robert Ketton can finally welcome people aboard on ‘The Pride of Toowoomba’, a newly restored and newly accredited 1914 locomotive C16 106.

Andrew Caldwell as DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum have received accreditation to take passengers on the main line, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Blowing some steam about all their hard work, driver Andrew Caldwell described the restoration as “many years of blood, sweat and tears”.

“It has been a dream in the making,” he said.

The train’s first journey with passengers is on May 18, with a morning trip for VIPs and donors, with a second trip in the afternoon for the public.

To find out more about the trip contact the office at [e-mail]

Ros Scotney and Robert Ketton as DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum have received accreditation to take passengers on the main line, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Picture: Kevin Farmer

DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum have received accreditation to take passengers on the main line, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Picture: Kevin Farmer