Peter Odell wrote:For once I can be first to tell Ashley & Co of derailments. Outside my house at Kamfersdam Junction seems to be a good "derailment watching" spot. The worst I managed was to bring the OHT down some years ago. But 3 here at least in last 2 years, 2 of which we witnessed "live"
Just dining in bed appx 23.30 [25 August] only to hear the TV drowned out by a roaring & scraping noise outside my front door. Lo and behold incoming 8,000 ton ore train had jumped the facing points with the first of 4 class 10E,s on its side only inches away from an outgoing train which had been standing waiting the road. The other 3 10E,s lay at various angles and the first 4 or 5 trucks had jacknifed.
I rang the loco forewoman who was still in the dark and was then first on the scene [or so I thought] No one injured but the Postmasburg driver wishing he could "have a whisky" after climbing out of his cab a la 3117....... On the scene before me was "A" of Transnet security [of Steamnet 2000 pipe theft fame] who had been on site, presumably hiding in the dark waiting for copper theives? Third on the scene then was Nightgown attired "B". Some of the TFR footplate ladies were busying phoning their familys in Kimberley...
Now as I type this at 00.15 lots of flashing red and blue lights have arrived. No doubt we shall have to spend the next few days watching cranes [that could be better utilised lifting Garrat boiler units] clearing the site.
Will be able to get panoramic pictures from my roof tomorrow [after 12] The ladder is already in position, as I,m busy painting it before the 37deg temps arrive.
