By KYAL MASON
RAILWAY enthusiasts and local commuters were in for a special treat on Sunday 13 July as the 63-year-old vintage steam locomotive rolled through Pakenham.
The train was headed to Traralgon station from Newport for the annual Snow Train Tour, run by Steam Rail Victoria.
The fully restored beauty consisted of two engines, 12 passenger carriages and was around 200 metres long.
The R761 locomotive was originally in regular service from 9 April 1952 and was withdrawn on 6 July 1964. It re-entered service in 1970 for special workings and was taken off the tracks again on 5 September 1974.
This particular steam train was the last R class locomotive to be withdrawn from service. If you missed out on seeing this steam vintage, this Saturday 26 July you can take a look at the Y112 steam locomotive pass through Pakenham around 9.20am and 6.10pm.
