We had some interesting visitors at Sandstone when a group of seven Gyrocopter pilots from all over the country descended on Sandstone for an overnight visit. Today they will be taking a walking tour of Sandstone before flying off to another destination.

An autogyro (from Greek αὐτός and γύρος, "self-turning"), also known as a gyroplane or gyrocopter, is a type of rotorcraft that uses an unpowered rotor in free autorotation to develop lift. Forward thrust is provided independently, typically by an engine-driven propeller. They were invented by a Spanish engineer, Juan de la Cierva in 1923 and have quite a following throughout South Africa and the world.

You can learn more about these fascinating machines on Wikipedia:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autogyro

The restoration of Class 4AR number 1555 foe Transnet Foundation.

The locomotive and tender have now been completely stripped and the cleaning process has begun. With bitterly cold temperatures in Bloemfontein an impromptu boiler has been set up for warmth!

Work continues on the cab and its fittings with the installation of the cab surround and the window frames. The next task is to fit the regulator assembly.

The Sandstone Oxen team have reached another milestone with the inspanning of 30 Oxen during a training exercise. The initial plan was for 32 oxen but a broken yoke foiled the plan but this will happen soon. Well done to the team!