Historic Locomotive

Locomotive #299B15 Class Steam Locomotive

Discover the remarkable story of the first steam locomotive built by Walkers Limited in 1897 and our dedicated restoration efforts to preserve this piece of Queensland railway heritage.

Historic Locomotive #299
#299
Built 1897 • Walkers Limited

Historical Significance

A Queensland First

Locomotive #299 holds the distinguished honor of being the first steam locomotive built by Walkers Limited (later Evans Deakin Industries) in Maryborough in 1897.

This B15 Class locomotive represents a significant milestone in Queensland's industrial and railway heritage, marking the beginning of locomotive manufacturing in the region.

299 was upgraded in early times to a B15 converted with larger driving wheels and an updated cab amongst other modifications to make it more like the newer PB15 class of locomotive that replaced the B15 class

Service History
Built1897
ClassB15
BuilderWalkers Limited
Years of ServiceOver 60 years
Technical Specifications
Detailed specifications of the B15 Class Locomotive #299

Dimensions

Length:48 feet 6 inches
Height:12 feet 6 inches
Width:8 feet 6 inches

Performance

Weight:45 tons
Gauge:3' 6" (1067mm)
Max Speed:60 mph

Engine Details

Cylinders:2
Drive Wheels:4-6-0 Configuration
Fuel:Coal

Restoration Story

Current Restoration Status
Our dedicated volunteers are working to restore Locomotive #299 to its former glory

Completed Work

  • ✓ Initial assessment and documentation
  • ✓ Boiler inspection and evaluation
  • ✓ Frame restoration planning
  • ✓ Historical research and verification
  • ✓ Parts inventory and sourcing

Ongoing Projects

  • • Boiler restoration and certification
  • • Drive mechanism overhaul
  • • Cab and exterior restoration
  • • Safety system updates
  • • Final testing and commissioning
Volunteer Dedication
The restoration of Locomotive #299 is a labor of love by our passionate volunteers

Our team of skilled volunteers brings together decades of experience in railway restoration, engineering, and historical preservation. Every weekend, dedicated members work tirelessly to bring this magnificent locomotive back to life.

The restoration project not only preserves an important piece of Queensland's railway heritage but also provides valuable learning opportunities for volunteers interested in traditional railway engineering and restoration techniques.

"Working on Locomotive #299 connects us directly to the craftsmen who built her over 125 years ago. Every bolt, every plate tells a story of Queensland's industrial heritage."

- Railway Restoration Volunteer

Get Involved in the Restoration
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help restore this historic locomotive
Mechanical Work
Engine restoration
Research
Historical documentation
Fundraising
Support the project

No prior experience required - we provide training and mentorship for all volunteers

Help Preserve Railway Heritage

Be part of bringing Locomotive #299 back to life and preserving Queensland's railway history for future generations.