By Peter De Keles

Author  Bio The Puffing Billy Preservation Society officially launched Climax geared locomotive No. 1694 back into service on Sunday 8 September, 2013.

For the past 12 years the Climax Locomotive has been under restoration at Belgrave, which has included major work on the boiler, frames, gears and brakes along with new wheels and axles.

"The number of volunteer hours that has contributed to restoring this locomotive is in excess of 2,500 hours", said Jeff Goodwin, President of the Puffing Billy Preservation Society. "The restoration process has cost $700,000 which is being raised via a number of fundraising initiatives including proceeds from the "Great Train Race" and the "861 Footplate Experience" trains.

There is still a significant amount outstanding regarding the associated loans we have incurred, so if anyone wishes to contribute, our "Coffee for the Climax" fundraising campaign is still running".

LSOL member Jeffrey Evans was at the event and has shared his photos and video with us. According to Jeff, the boiler was shipped from Australia to Washington, where the boiler work was done free of charge!

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