Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Hand-built little steam dream
ON the first Saturday of every month, children of all ages can enjoy a nostalgic train ride on a steam-puffing locomotive, at the Klein De Grendel “Station” in Parow West, behind the Ajax Cape Town Soccer Academy.
The knee-high mini train is operated by the 40-year-old Western Province Live Steamers Society, founded in 1980 by the late Jack Love.
The society is a non-profit organisation, dedicated to the preservation and development of miniature steam, diesel, and electric locomotives.
Visitors can have train rides on these miniature trains or a picnic or a party on the open field between the tracks, and just watch these old beauties in all their greasy glory operating. Each one has been built and
maintained by the club’s very experienced engineers and hobbyists themselves.
The society’s chairperson, Geoffrey de Vartek, said: “Our aim is for people to experience a lovely family outing with our enthusiastic members and their little locomotives.
“We would also like to encourage young people and adults alike, to start working with their hands again and get hobbies, where you effectively see the product of your labour. Working not only for yourself, but also for the benefit of society and your greater community.”
So, head out to Parow for your own little Orient Express experience.
For more information, contact Geoffrey on 072 7876 709.
When? The first Saturday of Every Month. Time? From 1.30pm to 4pm.
Cost: entrance is free, R10 per ticket to ride.
Where? Bertie Genade Street Parow Cape Town, near the Parow Golf course and behind Ajax Cape Town.