Full steam ahead after 50th rail celebrations
‘‘We’ve had old members who we hadn’t seen in years turn up, but we’ve been impressed by the number of younger visitors too.’’ Bryan Blanchard Club president
Hundreds turned out to the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Pleasant Point Museum and Railway with the organisers also looking to the future.
More than 500 people attended the first part of yesterday’s celebrations with president Bryan Blanchard saying they had visitors from all over the South Island.
They were also expecting a ‘‘good crowd’’ for last night’s steam run.
‘‘It’s been quite something,’’ Blanchard said.
‘‘We’ve had old members who we hadn’t seen in years turn up, but we’ve been impressed by the number of younger visitors too.
‘‘Hopefully, some of them will become members at a later date.’’
The event included two steam locomotives – a 1922 Ab699 and 1878 D16and the 1925 Ford Model T replica rail car operated from 10.30am-4pm and again from 7-9pm.
‘‘You see people’s faces light up when they get onboard those steam engines,’’ Blanchard said.
‘‘We’re very lucky to have the Ab699, it’s one of I think only three operating in the country.’’
Blanchard was also pleased with the numbers given they had to postpone the event earlier due to Covid level 2 restrictions. The railway had only had one steaming day since lockdown, on July 12.
Close to 800 people rode the trains that day, while a typical steaming day would attract 150 to 200.
‘‘We didn’t know until the other week whether we could even host the event. It all had to come together really quickly,’’ he said.
‘‘But there’s a really good sense of comradeship with the whole group, people have made long lasting friendships through this organisation.
‘‘I’m the last of the founding members with my wife, and I think they would have all been very proud with what we’ve achieved.’’
Blanchard said the club had about 175 members, with many of them dotted all around the country.
‘‘Obviously they couldn’t all be here today, but they all love the railway.
‘‘I think Sunday’s event proved how much joy this club brings to people. We’re definitely not flogging a dead horse.’’