Letter from Grant Fryer regarding 14R 1745
Following on from the decision to scrap 14R No. 1745 we received the following letter from Grant Fryer at Hilton where 1745 saw service in the early 90s.
Good Day Sandstone,
I trust this email finds you well. I have recently seen the post on Reef Steamers of the intention to dispose of 14R 1745.
This is a loco that is close to my heart. I grew up on the Hilton old mainline, at Sweetwaters. I have vivid memories of watching the trains going over the level crossing, including 14R. I am sorry I never had a camera back then. My love for trains continued and eventually I worked at Hilton station during those preservation years. When 1745 was saved it was certainly with joy in my heart. I also so loved the colour scheme she went into, almost giving her a royalty title.
Today whilst cleaning at the station I came across a small book, ‘Locomotives of the Hilton line’.
Below are some scans of a few pages.
I saw her in 2013 when I was at Reefsteamers and took a photo.
I was filled with heartache after knowing her so well, and it is really sad to see her on the way out.
Regards,
Grant Fryer
