News - Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

Work on the line is preliminary to a comprehensive survey: Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Pty Ltd (OCT)

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Oteniqua Choo Tjoe Pty Ltd (OCT) wishes to address recent public enquiries and commentary regarding works currently being conducted on the railway line.

We are pleased to confirm that OCT has been formally awarded the concession. Comprehensive processes and planning are already underway. While we will not elaborate on the specific details at this stage, we want to reassure all stakeholders that a concentrated and deliberate effort is being applied to every step and every phase, with the overarching goal of successfully restoring and operating the line always firmly in mind.

The current works, being carried out by our appointed perway subcontractor, consist of the systematic clearing of the line. These activities are both technical and investigative in nature. Because the precise condition of the terrain and surrounding areas remains largely unknown until physically inspected, no fixed scope of work can be defined at this early stage.

As each section is cleared, detailed information and data are collected daily from the areas completed. This information is essential for the accurate planning and implementation of the full perway rehabilitation programme. The approach ensures that all future decisions are based on verified, site-specific facts rather than assumptions. It is for this reason that we have intentionally deployed a smaller, more compact specialist team during the initial startup phases.

In addition, strict regulatory and safety requirements govern our operations. We are legally permitted to commence works only within the approved framework and only once sections of the line have been assessed and deemed safe. All activities are therefore being conducted strictly in accordance with the applicable legal regulations governing access to, and works on, the railway line. These regulations exist to protect both workers and the public, and OCT is fully compliant with them at all times.

At the same time as the line is being cleared of vegetation, management is actively pursuing front-end engineering on the bridges, including Kaaimans and the Knysna Estuary bridges, to ensure that they can be made safe for operations.

We remain absolutely committed to delivering a successful concession that will bring long-term benefit to the wider community. To achieve this, we respectfully ask for your understanding and continued support for the methodical approach we have adopted. The patience shown now will ensure a safer, more sustainable, and ultimately far more beneficial outcome for everyone in the future.

We sincerely thank members of the public, local authorities, and all stakeholders for their interest and support. We look forward to welcoming you on board as we progress toward the successful reopening of the line.

For any further official enquiries, please contact OCT directly through the channels provided on our website.

Railway property now considered private land

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Following the granting of the concession to repair and operate the George/Knysna railway line, the George/Knysna rail reserve and railway properties are now considered private concession land and a private construction site. Legal permission to access this land is required directly from the CEO of Classic Rail at all times – phone Alan McVitty. 082 569 8999

The only personnel allowed access to the property are the duly appointed contractors.

The current situation is that the company has pilot funding to clear the bush and survey the bridges preliminary to preparing a final budget. The parties are processing the “Conditions Precedent” in the concession document to unlock all the concession assets. The project funding has been identified and will flow shortly when the preliminary process is completed.

Progress report 27 January 2026

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Classic Rail, the successful tenderer for the return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, has issued the following progress report as of 26 January, 2026:

The George / Knysna Railway Line was built between 1925 and 1928. It is now 100 years old and a privilege to restore.

Afritrack, under the leadership of Johan Laubscher, Dawie Moller and Lean Steyn, is Classic Rail’s track contractor. This company has one team (see photo) on site clearing the vegetation from the rail reserve – initially five meters on either side of the centerline of the rail.

This team began working at the Sedgefield station in December, and has now reached the 12 km mark. The cleared material has been stored along the outside of the cleared area, for later chipping and composting. This is an important process as the dead vegetation could pose a fire risk.

Members of the team on site report that on average one in four wooden sleepers will need replacing, but that the majority of them are still sound, despite being 100 years old.

The project has broken into two phases: Phase 1: The Waterfront Express – the Sedgefield / Knysna line; and Phase 2: The Museum Limited – from Sedgefield to the George Railway Museum.

Classic Rail has exclusive rail access to the Museum Railway Platform.

BACKGROUND WORK

The remainder of the Classic Rail Team is working in the background, to select and restore locomotives and heritage carriages. Preparation for the development and restoration of all the historic properties along the line is also underway.

RAIL REGULATOR

Classic Rail’s Daleen Endley and Carol Anne Matseba have helped secure the Rail Safety Permit from the Rail Regulator to clear and later operate the line.

FAIRLIE PROJECTS

Shaun Ackerman, of Fairlie Projects, is preparing a refurbishment plan for all the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Locomotives. (Shaun has a long history with the previous Gauteng-based Reef Steamers.)

Initially, two 19 D locomotives currently stabled in the LA Workshop at the George Railway Museum will be road hauled to Fairlie’s Germiston Workshop for restoration. One will be restored as a coal-fired steam engine, and the other will be converted to an oil-fired steam engine – this will accommodate Fire Risk Days as determined by the Local Fire Chief on a daily basis.

On completion, these locos will be road-hauled back to Knysna.

One Class 32 diesel locomotive will be refurbished at the LA Workshop and then road-hauled to the Knysna / Sedgefield Line and will operate as an overall back up locomotive as and when required.

The remaining steam locomotives (as allocated to the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Concession) are currently stabled at Voorbaai, and will be rail-hauled to the George Railway Museum Yard in due course. They will then be repaired as and when required, together with the other Class 32 Diesel Loco.

All the relevant Outeniqua Choo Tjoe spares currently at Voorbaai will also be transferred to George LA Workshop.

This work will commence shortly when all paperwork with Transnet Heritage is completed.

LE ROUX CARRIAGE PROJECTS

Les Le Roux is a cabinet carpenter and builder who recently undertook the refurbishment of the luxury carriages for the Kruger Shalati Train Hotel on the Bridge at Skukuza in the Kruger National Park. He will be responsible for the refurbishment of all the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe’s 3rd class side-door carriages which are currently stabled at the George Railway Museum.

These carriages will be repositioned from the Museum Platform to the LA Workshop where they will be completely refurbished and redecorated. On completion, they will be road-hauled to Knysna via Humansdorp because of the current roadworks at Wilderness.

SEDGEFIELD STATION

Sedgefield Station will become the main steam train hub for the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe operating on the George / Knysna Line. To this end, a new turntable and running workshop will be built north of the current station. Concept drawings for this development are being prepared by Shaun Ackerman, and will be finalised by heritage architect Henry Paine, who will also contribute to the redevelopment of all the heritage properties along the George / Knysna line.

The Owen and Donavon McCullum building team will be responsible for the construction and refurbishment of these heritage assets. Owen and Donovan built the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve that was destroyed in the 2017 Knysna Fire

OTHER WORK IN PROGRESS

The status of all bridge repairs, and the appointment of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe operations and marketing team are considered works in progress at this stage, and Classic Rail will report back on these aspects of the project in due course.

SPECIAL THANKS

The company extends a special thanks to Cathy Averienos and Pam Booth who are guiding the environmental process, as well as to Knysna’s Dudley Isaacs, who has made himself helpful in many different ways.

Further updates will be posted to Facebook @classicrailgardenroute and to the company’s website,www.outeniquachootjoe.com

Rail reserve out of bounds for hikers

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Classic Rail has reminded visitors and locals that the rail reserve is out of bounds for hikers. This includes the dangerous Kaaimans River Bridge.

"We understand the frustration of people who want to walk the line, but the safety of users is paramount," said Classic Rail CEO, Alan McVitty. "And while it is still going to take some time until we have trains running on that portion of the line, walking the bridge is still a hazardous pass-time given its current state of repair"

Bush clearing begins on Choo Tjoe Track

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Media release: Immediate. 3 December 2025

Issued by Classic Rail/Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

Martin Hatchuel 084 951 0574

martinhatchuel@gmail.com

Bush clearing begins on Choo Tjoe Track

Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe company began this week to clear the vegetation that has overgrown the George-Knysna line in many places.

Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe said that this was necessary so that engineers can make a proper assessment of the line in order to finalise the capital expenditure that will be required to put the iconic train back on track.

Clearing began at the Sedgefield Station, and will continue towards Knysna, with the George-Sedgefield section to be cleared in the second phase.

Classic Rail was awarded the concession to rebuild the track and rolling stock, and operate the train at a ceremony at the Outeniqua Transport Museum on the 27th of October this year.

Railway line not open to cyclists

Martin Hatchuel — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Media release: Immediate. 25 November 2025

Issued by Classic Rail/Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

Martin Hatchuel 084 951 0574

martinhatchuel@gmail.com

Railway line not open to cyclists

Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, the successful bidders for the concession to repair and operate the George-Knysna railway line, have reiterated their position that the railway is reserved for train operations only.

“The rail reserve is 30 metres either side from the centre of the line, and no cycling or hikers are allowed in this area,” said Classic Rail CEO, Alan Mcvitty.

“This is purely a safety consideration, and falls in line with the provisions of the Rail Safety Regulator.”

Mr. Mcvitty said that clearing vegetation will begin shortly.

“We plan to welcome cyclists on the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe when it begins operations in about a year’s time, meaning that riders will be able to take the train in one direction with their bicycles on board, and cycle home in the other direction on existing paths outside the rail reserve,” he said.

Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Steaming Ahead

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0200

The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe – the Garden Route’s and South Africa’s beloved steam train – is going to run again.

Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and Outeniqua Choo Tjoe said on Monday that his company has acquired all the necessary contracts – and has found the much-needed Funding Partners – to rebuild the line between George and Knysna, and to relaunch and run the train as a tourist attraction.

This after nearly 20 years of negotiations and disappointments.

“We plan to open the line in two phases – Knysna to Sedgefield and Sedgefield to George – and we expect the first phase to take about 12 months to complete. A Ceremonial Signature Event will be held to celebrate this landmark achievement made possible by a collaborative approach between Classic Rail, Local Businesses and Transnet Freight So today isn’t an actual opening: we’re just sharing the good news with the public and the tourism industry that everything is on track and we are finally on our way.

With locomotives under repair in Gauteng, and carriages to be refurbished in George, the plan is to open a steam workshop along the line, and to road haul the rolling stock to the Knysna-Sedgefield line to begin the first service

We are kicking our project off clearing the vegetation from the line so that we can properly examine and decide on which sections need repair. We will also have to survey the bridges as part of our front-end engineering,” said Mr. McVitty. Project and passenger safety is paramount

“It’s too early to start taking bookings, however all stakeholders and clients will be kept up to date via our social media platforms and regular updates on project progress being made but of course early bookings is going to be going to be the kicker if we’re going to do this successfully for the Garden Route Region and South Africa.

The rebirth of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe will bring even more tourism to the Garden Route, with the positive spin off of much-needed sustainable job creation, and because of the company's collaborative approach. Together with local businesses, every body will gain.

“In the meantime, please keep an eye on www.outeniquachootjoe.com and (on Facebook) @ClassicRail for news on the progress of the project.”

State of the Choo Tjoe line September 2022

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

RFP for the operation of the George-Knysna line

In late 2021, Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), the owner of the George-Knysna line, put out a Request for Proposals (RFP) from the private sector for the restoration and operation of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe on the line. This tender closed on 19 April 2022. Two companies submitted bids. As one of these bidders, The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe (Pty) Ltd assembled a team of track repair contractors, bridge engineers, hydrologists, steam and carriage restoration specialists, tourism specialists, and tourism journalists (amongst others). Most of the members of this team were also members of the recently-completed Kruger Shalati Train Hotel on the Bridge at Skukuza in the Kruger National Park.

Mossel Bay Train

The Mosel Bay Steam Train that ran on Heritage Day (24 September, 2022) was a project of Transnet Engineering (TE), and not of TFR. The train was hauled by a privately-owned locomotive, and it is our understanding that this was a once-off event.

Tender announcement

We look forward to TFR's announcement of the successful bidder for the operation of the Outeniqua Choo on the George-Knysna Line, and trust that this will happen very soon. We will keep you posted.

CEO Alan McVitty, 26 September 2022.

Kaaimans Railway Bridge Named Heritage Landmark

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0200

The South African Institution of Civil Engineers (SAICE), together with the Executive Mayor of the George Municipality, Melvin Naik, unveiled at plaque at Dolphin’s Point overlooking the bridge, on Wednesday, 9 October, naming the Kaaimansrivier Railway Bridge “2019 National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark of the Year.”

SAICE’s History & Heritage panel evaluates historic civil engineering infrastructure annually to decide which project should be honoured. In so doing the civil engineering heritage of our country is recognised, and the role that infrastructure plays in our day-to-day lives is highlighted.

The SAICE Heritage panel undertakes research into the circumstances regarding the construction of the various heritage infrastructure nominees to ascertain whether they are worthy of the recognition. Previous awards have gone to a variety of notable projects like the Van Staden’s Weir and Dam( built in 1877) near Port Elizabeth, or last year’s recipient, Bloemfontein’s Bloemspruit Canal (built in the 19th century, and still in use today).

The Kaaiman’s railway bridge has been widely photographed and its image is well-known internationally, with railway and heritage tourists continually visiting it, both now and when it was part of the Outeniqua Choe Tjoe route.

The bridge is also known for the beautiful beach and river that it crosses, and which draw holiday makers to the region.

The 2007 floods put the Outeniqua Choe Tjoe off its rails, but we remain optimistic that some day soon operations will resume on this historic route, and that the historic steam train will transport visitors over the Kaaimans Bridge once again.

Construction

The bridge was constructed between 1925 and 1928. It was designed by the South African Railways and Harbours (SAR&H), now Transnet. The resident engineer on the George – Knysna line was N.K. Prette-John; his assistant engineer on the bridge site was R.A. Glenday, and the contractor was M.D. Vallero.

The bridge is founded on caissons on bedrock. Challenges overcome included adverse geological conditions, extreme flooding and aggressive wave action.

A number of photographs depicting the bridge and its construction can be seen at the Transnet Railway Museum in George.

SAICE

SAICE were represented at the plaque ceremony by its current president, Mr. Brian Downie, and Heritage Panel chairperson Prof. Chris Roth. A number of heritage tour delegates and representatives of the Southern Cape branch of SAICE were also present

Header image: Tim Giddings [Public domain]

STATE OF THE CHOO TJOE: SEPTEMBER 2019

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0200

“We’re very aware that everyone wants to get the Choo Tjoe steaming again as soon as possible - especially since it’ll have a real and positive influence on the local tourism economy,” said Classic Rail Director, Alan McVitty.

He said that Transnet Freight Rail has accepted the company’s revised business plan.

“The next step is the finalisation of our 20-year concession, which will allow us to operate trains on the line.

“We’re currently in discussions with Transnet, and also with various divisions of local and provincial government to agree on a way forward for the project.

“We hope to have some news in the coming months - at which point we should be able to announce our launch date,” said Alan.

Drive the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe on your computer

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0200

Two retired pals have recently completed building the entire Outeniqua Choo Tjoe route - from George to Knysna - on the rail simulator, Railworks.

Vanderbijlpark's Hermann Kühne ("just an ex-teacher with a great love of steam and railways in general who shudders to see everything rail going down the drain"), and Johan Pretorius (aka Johansteam) from Kingsburgh in Kwazulu-Natal - who still drives heritage steam trains at Ixopo and Creighton, and who's also a member of the Pietermaritzburg Model Engineering Society, with more than one self-built SAR steam engine in operation on Saturdays - completed the project in around three years.

"For both of us the rail holds a certain kind of beauty and also some nostalgic memories," said Hermann.

"Railworks is the brainchild of Dovetail Games (DTG) in the UK, and is sold via Steam in the USA.

"We used the editor in Railworks, but because of the vast differences between the UK and South Africa, we had to rebuild almost everything from scratch. No other train routes for SA exist on this Railworks platform and we therefore had to do everything from the ground up. In fact, as far as we know, we are the only two in South Africa recreating train routes for SA in Railworks.

"Tracing the whole route - yes, every single piece of track - took quite a while. This 'traced route' was fed into Railworks Editor so that we could start the laying of the track: every single kilometer from George to Knysna!

"We used a programme imported from the USA to build the correct topography for this whole area. Came out quite nicely.

"Because we could not use any of the station buildings from the editor for our scenery, we had to build every station building and lots of other features in 3DS Max from scratch, and situate them correctly in place with the help of Google Earth. We used photos and videos of the area extensively to try and depict the route as accurately as possible. We even had to recreate a Class 24 steam loco and some SAR/SAS coaches to run on the route.

"Transnet/Spoornet gave us legal permission to use their logos on the loco and cars.

"We recreated bridges, vegetation, billboards, station names, track infrastructure etc. and populated every inch of the route as close to the real thing as possible.

"Of course it you can't recreate everything 100% accurately, but we tried our best," said Hermann.

Route released by DTG and Steam

The route was released by DTG and Steam earlier this year (2018).

"Now train enthusiasts from all over the world can drive and relive this beautiful route that's so much part of our heritage," said Hermann.

Speaking about their motivation for undertaking such a massive project, Hermann said that, "We were saddened by the terrible state of our 'forgotten' train routes, so we decided to do our bit for reviving some of it."

The Knysna-George line is actually the friend's second project: their first was the electrified route from Pietermaritzburg to Ladysmith.

"Our third route, which is currently under review in the UK, is the well-known line from Worcester to Mossel Bay. It took us another two years to build, and at 330km. It will be the longest single route on Railworks when it's launched," said Hermann.

Downloading

To access the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe simulator:

Download, install, and register Steam (for free) from steampowered.com
Now purchase Railworks and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe route.

Gallery credits

The images in the gallery below are all screen grabs from Dovetail Games' ad for the Choo Tjoe Train Simulator

Clean-up at Knysna Waste-by-Rail site

Mon, 28 May 2018 00:00:00 +0200

Knysna’s Waste-by-Rail site has received a much-needed clean-up.

This follows a site meeting on the 18th of April between Classic Rail and representatives of the Knysna Community Police Forum, the South African Police, and Business Against Crime. The area had become overgrown, and the four flat-deck rail wagons which have been stored there since flooding closed the railway line in 2006, were in danger of becoming illegally occupied - which could have become a cause for concern for local residents.

Coordinated by Classic Rail, the company that’s planning to restore services to the line, the clean-up was the result of a joint effort between Transnet Freight Rail (which owns the land), the local authorities, and Classic Rail itself.

Transnet Freight Rail cut and cleared the grass and vegetation around the wagons; Classic Rail ensured that the tracks were made good for passage; the Knysna Municipality supplied a front-end loader to shunt the wagons; Municipal traffic officers directed traffic during the move; and Classic Rail saw to the erection of the fences at its own cost.

“This is just a small beginning, but we’ve made a start,” said Classic Rail’s Alan McVitty.

Status update: 19 February, 2018

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0200

The project to revive one of the Garden Route’s favourite tourist attractions - the much-loved Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam train - is on track.

“Please bear with us, though. Transnet Freight Rail accepted our revised business plan during January 2018, and they are now attending to the matter as quickly as they can.

“The processes of awarding the 20-year concession requires support and approval from the various levels of Transnet’s governance structure - including the Transnet Freight Rail Board, and the Transnet Group Board - before it goes up to the Minister of Public Enterprises for final approval in terms of the Public Finance Management Act.

“You can be sure that we’ll invite everyone to a huge celebration when we do finally have the concession in hand.

“There are happy times ahead for all of us - so save your money to buy Choo Tjoe tickets very soon!” he said.

TRAIN AND TROLLEY ACTIVITY ON THE LINE

Please note: The George/Knysna line belongs to Transnet Freight Rail, and no train or trolley activities can take place on the line without their approval, as well as that of the Railway Safety Regulator.

Transnet Freight Rail shares vision for bullish rail future in the Southern Cape

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0200

Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) shared its vision for rail rejuvenation in the Southern Cape with spatial development planners and officials at an Eden District Municipality meeting on Thursday, 23 November, 2017. The meeting between Transnet and Eden District Municipality included representatives of all the Local Municipalities that fall inside the control of Eden District Municipality and included Bitou, Knysna, George, Mossel Bay, Hessequa and Oudtshoorn.

The Transnet Freight Rail Branch Lines in the Southern Cape run through all the listed Municipalities and the current state of the network was shared with the Municipal planning officials. The main parts of the network from Klipplaat in the Eastern Cape, through Oudtshoorn to George, Mossel Bay and through Riversdale towards Swellendam and Worcester are all operational. Three of the branch lines are currently inactive, namely, the Narrow Gauge towards Port Elizabeth that runs in George Municipality, the Oudtshoorn to Calitzdorp line and the George Knysna Railway line.

The plan and vision that was shared includes the densification of the network that is not utilized to full potential. The vision is to use freight opportunities to increase the amount of freight that we can divert from Road to Rail. The movement of freight to the rail system will assist in reducing the number of highly pollutant road trucks that cause significant traffic delays and accidents on the roads and also support the tourist industry and economic growth in the area.

Eden District Municipality is working towards the creation of a centralized land-fill site for municipal waste at a new site adjacent to PetroSA in Mossel Bay and the rail line between Mossel Bay and Worcester runs adjacent to this site. The proposal from Transnet Freight Rail is to form a collaboration with all the Municipalities in Eden to introduce a solution of moving the solid waste by rail to the land-fill site. Existing trains running on the line can be used and this will result in cost savings for the municipalities. The creation of intermodal transfer facilities at TFR stations will then assist to enable the loading of any container or swop body from road to rail and vice versa and make available rail freight opportunities to any company in the Southern Cape, even those without direct railway sidings.

Transnet shared the idea of using the railway line for shared services with trams and light trains where one could introduce a tram or Light train running between Mossel Bay, the Airport, George and Knysna with secondary services to Oudtshoorn and Heidelberg. This service can be integrated into the transport investments into Go George and other initiatives.

A third major focus area is the use of the railway line for tourist activities. This will include the expansion of the current activities like the Outeniqua Powervan and Diaz Express. Transnet with the help of private interests and funding is also in the process of converting the steam workshops in Mossel Bay to become the premier maintenance facility for steam locomotives as well as the training center to ensure young people from the area are trained in the skills required to enable steam trains to be a central part of the tourism offering.

Transnet shared its vision of expanding the tourist steam trains operating through Eden District Municipality. The current infrequent services must increase and the vision must be to offer a daily service that can be used to convince International tourists to stay another night in the Southern Cape and thereby increase the economic spin-offs for the area.

Transnet also announced that the process to obtain a solution to the re-opening of the George to Knysna branch line is on track. After a period of more than 4 years where Transnet encouraged the local interest groups to work together to develop a proposal whereby the line can be restored and the steam operations resume and this has now been formulated.

The private sector initiative developed a full proposal with a request for a concession on the line that will see the restoration of the line and the resumption of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe. The private sector company will provide all funding and Transnet will support where possible in cascading material and by conceding the assets of Transnet on this line for a period of years to the concession company. The assets that will be conceded include the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train sets. At the end of the concession, the line and all assets, many in an improved state, will revert back to Transnet.

Transnet cannot publically, at this stage, name the company and its shareholders but will do this after a due diligence. After this, the proposal will be submitted to the TFR Executive Leadership Team to support the awarding of the concession. The TFR Executive Leadership Team will then procure Group approval and Ministerial approval in terms of the Public Finance Management Act and finally enter into the concession agreement.

If everything goes according to plan, the possibility of running the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe over a smaller section of the line will be a reality in December 2018.

On 28 October, 2018 Transnet and the region will be celebrating the 90th anniversary of the opening of the original George to Knysna Railway Line and the aim is to get the first services operational on this date.

-End -

Issued on Behalf of Transnet Freight Rail by: Mike Asefovitz

Spokesperson, Transnet Freight Rail

Opening of the George-Knysna railway line, 1928

Tue, 02 May 2017 00:00:00 +0200

Although the railway from George to Knysna has been available for goods and passenger traffic since May last, it was formally opened by the Minister of Railways and Harbours, the Hon. C.W. Malan, on Wednesday, October 17th.

The scenes of enthusiasm on the occasion exceeded in intensity those witnessed when the first crossing by rail was made, as no doubt the people of the town and district recognised that by giving the line his official blessing, the Minister directly intimated the Government’s continued interest in all that concerns the railway and the progress of the district it now links up with the rest of the Union.

Since he has held the portfolio of Minister of Railways, the Hon. C.W. Malan has officiated at a number of railway openings, and for the most part the lines handed over have been notable for the part they were destined to play in advancing the agricultural development of the Union. In regard to the George Knysna railway, it fell to Mr. Malan’s lot to give an official send off to a section of railway construction that by reason of the extraordinarily impressive and various scenery it traverses is bound to achieve renown not only through South Africa, but in other parts. That it will also play an important part in helping to increase the productivity of the district through which it runs is certain, for already signs are apparent of the manner whereby this steel link with the network of railways covering the sub-continent will impel greater returns in various branches of farming. But before this aspect of traffic will show an appreciable increase, the utility of the line as regards tourists will be amply demonstrated, and the returns from travellers bound for the Wilderness and Knysna, and, as time goes on, one or two smaller places en route, will go far in making the line a well worth-while undertaking.

Travelling from George to Knysna is like being present at an animated art exhibition, each mile presenting a new canvas that calls forth exclamations of pleasure. Never does the passenger reach for his timetable to see when and where is the next halt. One loses, to a certain degree, the sense of time, thanks to a profusion of scenic delights and the excitement of going over comparatively virgin country. In substituting the train for the motor, most people will find that the transference has much in it’s favour. Soon the George Knysna railway will become among holiday-makers the synonym for tantalising travel.

“Forty-two miles of smiles” said one person after making the journey, and in this appropriate simile he has not stepped beyond the bounds of veracity.

Before detailing the function of the official opening of the line it may be as well to give a general survey of the route.

Winding rapidly down to the sea, past fern covered hills and deep gullies studded with wild flowers, the first glimpse of the ocean is obtained at Victoria Bay. Many feet below the metals, the waves, dashing themselves against the rocks, send up a fine spray, the salt tang of which is very pleasant for the hinterlander. Through two tunnels of moderate length cut into the hills above the sea the train approaches the Kaaimans River, the crossing of which at present is made by means of a temporary trestle bridge.

Alongside it, rapidly nearing completion, is the permanent structure, 520 feet long, in a situation which to say the least is remarkable. By December it is calculated that trains will run across it, and the views up the river as the crossing is made will enchant even the most blasé. As the traveller emerges from the last tunnel the scene opens up in all its glory, the view including the golden beaches and enticing woodland of the Wilderness, that deservedly popular resort which will enjoy greater popularity—if such is possible—because of the picturesque approach by rail. The station is prettily set against the background of the forest clad hills, and within easy access of the beach and hotel. From the Wilderness onwards for some miles the rails traverse what may be termed an African Lakeland, so numerous and attractive are the sheets of water that occur with pleasing frequency. Wild ducks in thousands enliven these waters.

Before the climbing of the hills flanking the shores of the lagoon at Knysna, there is presented to the traveller a perfect gem of rural beauty-Goukamma. Beautiful green hills surround little farms whose boundaries lead down to a placid stream meandering leisurely into the folds of the hills. A small bridge painted red shows up vividly among the welter of greenery, the whole blending to charm the spectator. Immediately above the halt the rails make a great horse-shoe bend in the negotiating of the slopes of the hills, the traveller being enabled to obtain another, and more extensive view of the glorious Goukamma before it passes out of sight behind the cuttings.

Soon the lagoon and township of Knysna break into view, forming a picture—from the vantage point above the hills - which countless cameras will perpetuate for many years. The crossover is effected by earthworks, built on the islands, and a long bridge. Crossing the latter at high tide makes one feel that the train has suddenly acquired amphibian characteristics, and is floating over. From either window of the carriage the views are exceedingly fine, the long stretch of river and The Heads vying with each other to hold the attention of the traveller. The train pulls up on the shores of the lagoon, within a few minutes walk from the hotels and business part of this pleasant holiday resort.

Such in brief is the George Knysna railway. It has taken nearly four years to build, and it’s successful accomplishment calls for the highest praise for all concerned. The difficulties that confront railway engineers in all parts of the world were met on this occasion in no uncertain fashion, and besides the work entailed in laying a line along the mountainous coast-line of South Africa, the engineers had to call in divers to assist in putting in the caissons to bridge the rivers. The obstacles imposed by Nature have been conquered by science and skill, the whole construction being another milestone established by the Railway Administration.

The official opening train, with Messrs. Dowson and White in charge, left George early on the morning of October 17th, and before it steamed into Knysna with the Minister of Railways and Harbours and Mr. C.T.M. Wilcocks, member of the Railway Board, on board, fully seven hundred people had availed themselves of the Administration’s invitation to participate in the celebrations.

Promptly at noon the train swung through the flower-bedecked arch on which was written a useful variation of the usual “Welcome,” “Alles van die beste,” greeted the crowd, and a cheer went up as the Minister and Mr. Wilcocks, both accompanied by their wives, stepped out. The gentlemen smilingly received flowers as buttonholes, while the ladies graciously accepted baskets of flowers presented by the women of Knysna and district.

A martial note was lent to the proceedings by the presence of a company of cadets, the buglers of which sounded a welcome while the rest of the troop presented arms. After greeting the officers and inspecting the guard of honour, the Minister, accompanied by representatives of the community, proceeded to the specially erected platform at the end of the station.

Among the group on the dais were the Mayor of Knysna, Commander E.L. Ashley-Foakes, O.B.E., R.N,; Mr. H. van Hyssteen, M.P.C. (both of whom welcomed the Minister); Mr. C. Thesen, a well known citizen of Knysna; Mr. Brink, M.L.A.; Mr. Mileham, Town Clerk of Knysna; Mr. W.G.J. Hill, System Manager, S.A.R&H., Port Elizabeth: Mr. N.K. Prettejohn, the engineer who supervised the building of the line; and Mr. Walker, of the Harbour Advisory Board.

Replying to the speeches of welcome, the Minister, who spoke both in Afrikaans and English, expressed thanks for the kind reception extended, and hoped that everything of the best would attend the people of the George-Knysna district. He then quoted figures and facts relative to the new line, and mentioned that the estimate had been considerably exceeded. He hoped, however, that every effort would be made to make the railway payable. The traffic already handled fell short of what had been promised, and he confidently looked to the industrial and farming community to give the officials plenty of traffic to keep them busy.

Mr. Malan then pointed out in what beautiful surroundings the line was laid, and considered that it would be the means of drawing increasing numbers of tourists to the area. “You are living in a paradise” he said. “Mr. Wilcocks and I travelled in Europe recently, and I tell you that we South Africans have nothing to fear by comparison.”

“We do not know our country well enough,” affirmed the Minister, reiterating the importance of developing tourist traffic. In this regard he appealed to the people of Knysna to establish a live publicity association and maintain a high standard of hotel accommodation. He would do everything possible to help them in bringing Knysna to the forefront. He would also direct the attention of the Director of Publicity in London, then in the Union, to the George Knysna district, so that when he returned to his office he would be in a position to speak with first-hand knowledge of the claims of the resorts along the new line.

In concluding his address, the Minister complimented the engineers and their assistants on their work, and in declaring the line open he wished all in the district every success.

Three hearty cheers for the Minister and Mr. Wilcocks terminated the proceedings at the station, after which the party were the guests of honour at a luncheon given at the Royal Hotel.

After his departure from Knysna, the Hon. C.W. Malan, accompanied by Mrs. Malan, took the opportunity of making a short halt at Deep Waals for the purpose of visiting a huge tree which is being preserved in that neighbourhood as a national monument. This forest giant, which has been named King Edward VII, bears a plate giving the following particulars: “KING EDWARD VII.” Height of bole, 70 feet. Full height, 137 feet. Contents, 1,720 cubic feet. Girth, 21 ½ feet. Large sleepers, 440. Age, approximately 1,500 years. Podocarpus elongata. Common or Outeniqua yellow-wood.

The railways we used to know

Tue, 06 Sep 2016 00:00:00 +0200

The line from George to Knysna was opened in 1928; The Wilderness was always a highlight - especially for young newlyweds!

Line repair update 29 August 2016

Martin Hatchuel — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0200

Classic Rail - the private consortium that’s working to restore train services on the historic Knysna-George railway line - is pressing on with repairs to the section between Knysna Station and Keytersnek Siding, while at the same time attending to the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) phase of the project, which will establish its actual capex requirement.

“The line has now been cleared and weed control will follow soon,” said Classic Rail’s Project Manager, Alan McVitty.

He explained that the FEED phase will include assessments of the retaining structures required to repair major and minor slips; the repairs required on the causeway and bridges across the Knysna Estuary; repairs to storm water crossings and furrows; and sleeper requirements.

“Engineers are currently preparing repair options for the Donkey Bridge and the slip at km 62,” he said. (See photo).

Mr. McVitty said that Classic Rail is extremely grateful to Transnet Freight Rail’s engineers (RME) for their help in providing historic data and technical assistance.

PUBLIC ACCESS TO RAILWAY PROPERTY

Classic Rail Track Engineer Etienne Beukes announced with regret that the company is now forced to close the line to all unauthorised personnel - that is, to anyone not covered by its contractors all risk policy.

“This means that only registered site personnel and those in possession of an access letter from Classic Rail or Transnet Freight Rail may now access the line,” he said.

Readers who want to be kept informed should follow Classic Rail on Facebook (www.facebook.com/classicrailgardenroute) - or join our mailing list by mailing media@outeniquachootjoe.com