The famous John Fowler steam engine locomotive is on its way home and will make a grand entry into Wellington on Saturday week at the Rotary Markets.
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Fowler committee chairman Cr Mark Griggs says the Fowler’s return is wonderful news to many people who have admired the old engine.
“Many locals and people within this region and around Australia would remember the engine running at different local events, and at other fixtures it visited back in the 1990s and 2000s.
Children used to get excited when they would hear the steam engine’s whistle in the distance and be out on the footpath to watch as it rolled closer, wave as it passed.
“I remember seeing plenty of adults doing the same,” Mr Griggs said.
“A specially-made trailer is currently being constructed so in the future, children and carers will be able to have rides in the trailer, towed by the Fowler.
“This will become part of the ‘Friends of the Fowler’ committee fundraising for wood supply and servicing,” he said.
“The engine is practically brand new since being virtually rebuilt from boiler to pistons.
“This was only achievable from a NSW Heritage Council grant of $50,000 matched by a dollar-for-dollar input from Wellington Council, which also contributed additional funding when it was discovered the machine was in more desperate need of a rebuild than originally thought.
“Ken Ainsworth from Ainsworth Engineering will be the official guest of the welcome home ceremony, accompanied a guest from the Powerhouse Museum at Ultimo.
“This is going to be a big day for Wellington as the ‘Welcome Home’ mayoral civic reception coincides with the monthly Wellington Rotary Markets being conducted on the other side of the library,” Cr Griggs said
The mayor sends an open invitation to all residents of the Wellington Council area, and their friends, to witness the occasion.
The Wellington Antique Car Club members will be driving their old veteran and vintage cars to the area in support of this wonderful old steam workhorse of Wellington.
In Monday’s Times, a competition will begin with a chance to ride on the John Fowler on its grand entry into Wellington.
Just cut out the voucher and drop the entry form into the Times office in Percy Street.
