GMAM Garratts on Lootsberg Pass

South Africa - 1978

Lootsberg pass, between Rosmead and Graat Reinet, was a wonderful place to watch steam locos including GMAM class Garrats. The service was sparse and it took some careful planning to capture the Mossel Bay to Johannesburg passenger train which din't operate every day. By 1978 all traffic was in the hands of GMAM class Garratts these having replaced 19B class 4-8-2s a few years earlier. Goods traffic was variable but added to the attraction of this very scenic section of line with some steep gradients and tight curves.

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