T251's was beyond repair after 8 years if inaction. It was cut off at the
frame and an entirely new tender is being built by Gordon Institute of
TAFE. It will be fully welded and have the shovelling plate up at a more
suitable height. Provision will be made for a possible future conversion
to oil firing.
Those who remember BPR back in the days at Belmont Common will remember
ex-APC Vulcan 0-6-0ST No.5 running around. This is the next restoration
project after T251. The cab arrangement lends itself well to being
converted to run with an autocoach, much like the Great Western Railway
14xx class. Ex-TGR former steam railcar SP8 has been nominated for the
role, but such a project wouldn't happen until next century.
Cheers
David