Steamnet2000

23/12/2024

We welcome back our baby, from Bloemfontein! 🇿🇦❤️

08/09/2024

❤️🇿🇦

"In the Shadows"

With Bloemfontein just a stone's throw away, Class 25NC No. 3437 and her seasoned crew face one last formidable challenge – the ascent into Kloofeind.

With a tremendous roar and a spectacular eruption of smoke (deliberately for the photographers), No. 3437 thunders into the western end of Kloofeind.

Kloofeind, Free State
July 2024

08/09/2024

"Smoke on the Veld"

Nestled along the Kimberley to Bloemfontein mainline, the remote outpost of De Brug offers a welcome touch of shade amidst an otherwise vast and barren landscape.

After an overnight pause at this isolated spot, Class 25NC No. 3437 makes its departure from De Brug in truly spectacular fashion!

De Brug, Free State
July 2024

29/06/2024

A special Thank You to all those involved.

29/06/2024

On a chilly afternoon a day before departure to Bloemfontein, a 25NC awaits its task to Bloemfontein.
21 June 2024 Beaconsfield depot, Kimberley.

22/03/2024

25NC No 3482 currently waiting renewed "loan" contract from Transnet Heritage before any work can be performed.
25NC No 3437. Steamnet2000 NPC [Non Profit Company] have no current plans to operate this locomotive. This does not preclude maintenance and operation by the private owner.

12/01/2024

One of the highlights of our 2023 was the FarRail Big Steam South Africa 2023 Tour. 🚂

This photographic charter saw roughly 70 international photographers travel the Northern Cape and the Free State photographing steam in an authentic environment. 📷

Steamnet2000 had 25NC 3437 stretching its legs for the first time since the early 1990s, and what a beautiful sight it was! The participants also travel to Sandstone Estates - Pty Ltd to photograph their beautiful narrow gauge locomotives and vintage machinery.

Join us on our journey of keeping heritage steam alive in South Africa.

Let History Transport You®

All photographs by Mr Hinrich Brummer

17/12/2023

"Sunset of Steel"

'Throwback Thursday' to June 2023!

In the radiant reflection of a golden sunset, Class 25NC No. 3437 simmers away peacefully – soon, she will awaken from a slumber to a soul of fire!

Steamnet2000
June 2023

24/09/2023

"A Grand (Coal) Stage under the African Night Sky"

Throwback Thursday to Farrail's visit in June 2023.

The majestic Class 25NC No. 3437 (on the right) peacefully steams away beneath the historic coal stage at Beaconsfield, Kimberley — a poignant reminder of days gone by.

The historic coaling stage is now home to Steamnet 2000.

Beaconsfield, Kimberley
June 2023

27/07/2023

''A Historic Arrival in Douglas!''

On a delightful June evening, near the banks of the Vaal River, an elegant Class 25NC makes its grand debut in the charming agricultural town of Douglas!

No. 3437 glides gracefully into the Douglas yards, with the distinctive grain silos in the background.

Taken during a Farrail Photographic Tour to South Africa, with support from the New Cape Central Railway and Steamnet 2000.

Douglas, Northern Cape
June 2023

23/07/2023

"Sunrise on a grand (coal) stage!"

The sun is just beginning to rise, casting its warm rays through the intricate support beams of one of South Africa's historic coal stages. This remarkable site is now the cherished home of Steamnet 2000 - a captivating blend of nostalgia and innovation!

Amidst this historic scene, the magnificent Class 25NC No.3437 rests patiently, eagerly awaiting the commencement of the day's activities.

You can't help but feel transported back in time, to an era steeped in charm and wonder. However, The 18E in the background a timely reminder that this is the 21st century...

Beaconsfield, Kimberley
June 2023

04/07/2023

'Memories of a Branchline Station'

On a historic winter's eve, the charming station building of Douglas came alive once again!

As the sound of chugging steam filled the air, after several decades of absence, the local townsfolk flocked to the station, curious to witness this spectacle. For many, it marked their very first encounter with a steam locomotive, and the sight of the mighty, fire-breathing Class 25NC must have felt otherworldly!

In this captivating scene, the beautifully restored No. 3437 gracefully pulls its load out of the siding and into the heart of the station.

This mesmerizing moment was captured during an extraordinary Farrail tour, meticulously organized by the exceptional team at New Cape Central Railway. A heartfelt acknowledgment is also owed to Steamnet2000, whose invaluable assistance made this experience possible!

Douglas, Northern Cape
June 2023

02/07/2023

'Shimmering Steel'

On a historic late afternoon in the small agricultural town of Douglas, the impressive and alluring Class 25NC No. 3437 shimmers in the warmth of the setting sun.

Taken during a Farrail Photographic Tour, organised and run by the New Cape Central Railway.

Douglas, Northern Cape,
June 2023.

02/07/2023

"Distinctly Karoo"

In a scene never before seen on the Belmont to Douglas branchline, Class 25NC No. 3437 gracefully steams through the picturesque Karoo landscape, pulling a long line of grain wagons. In the midst of this iconic desert scenery, a majestic South African windmill stands tall, adding to the distinctive charm and allure of the Karoo.

Taken during a Farrail Photographic Tour run by the New Cape Central Railway.

Sheephouse, Karoo
June 2023