A long-awaited return to the rails for George with passenger train

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GEORGE NEWS - History came alive when hundreds of Georgians took a scenic train trip from George Station to Great Brak River last weekend - the first time in 16 years that a passenger train has hit the rails in town.

This weekend, 11 and 12 July, this joint venture by Atlantic and Ceres Rails will cover four final trips before the rails go cold again.

Asked about the future plans for a more regular occurrance, Graeme Ekstrom of Atlantic Rails said it all depends on the demand. "Maybe we can do this again in the summer."

PHOTO GALLERY - George to Great Brak River train trips attract hundreds

The return of passenger trains to George comes at a time when momentum is also building behind the revival of the iconic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe. Classic Rail CEO Alan McVitty recently reaffirmed the project's goal of operating the first section between Knysna and Sedgefield by 2027, before gradually extending the service to George as restoration work progresses (georgeherald.com: "Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe revival gathers steam").

An afternoon on a train

George Herald had the opportunity to experience the train journey on Sunday afternoon, 5 July.

The excitement among the passengers was unmistakable - from an elderly woman who could no longer walk to a toddler who had only just learnt to do so, everyone was in high spirits.

About half an hour into Sunday afternoon's final trip, the journey took an unexpected turn when one of the diesel locomotives broke down. It was fascinating to watch the crew work resourcefully, reversing the train for some distance, uncoupling a number of carriages to lighten the weight, and continuing the journey with all passengers safely on board.

VIDEO - Sondagnamiddag treinrit na Groot-Brakrivier

AD Bruwer leads the way as the train leaves Great Brak Station.

In Great Brak River, the passengers were welcomed by a brass band at a charming local market. The coach controllers carried the 85-five-year-old Johanna Mandich in a chair from the train to her return transport, an act of kindness that moved several onlookers to tears.

The band also honoured her by performing a special song just for her.

Taxis and buses were arranged to transport passengers back to George, and everyone was offered the opportunity to enjoy the 72 km train journey again on a future excursion.

Enquiries: www.atlanticrail.co.za.

In 2010, the famous Outeniqua Choo Tjoe passenger train ran its final trips. Originally a 67km steam service between George and Knysna, it was rerouted to a 52km track between George and Mossel Bay after the floods in 2006. Transnet Ltd formally shut the line down in September 2010.

Ready to rock the rails. Around the coach foreground are Sabrina Tenente, Angelique Tenente, David Lamb and Monica and Jorge Tenente.