Tribute to my Dad

My Dad was a typical Australian hard knock story. He gave everything a go throughout his short life. I actually know very little of my Dad’s child hood because he never spoke much on that subject. Knowing that my Dad was fireman (Locomotive driver) with SAR South Australian Railways didn’t become knowledge to me until I put in for a job with AN Australian National in 1986. I came home from my job that I had at local hardware store and said: that I had got into the railways as a junior porter at the Port Augusta Railway Station. Dad’s first response was “what the bloody hell do you want to work for the railways” I asked why and he then proceeds to tell me that he was Fireman (Driver) at Port Lincoln then transferred to Thevenard. My Dad’s first mate on the foot plate at Port Lincoln was Jack Street who finished his railway career as a locomotive inspector. Dad’s stories and accounts of what went on back in the “OLD “days was very interesting to say the least. Like today what happens on the Loco stays on the loco..

This photo was taken in the THEVENARD barracks circ 1960. From the left is My Dad, Trevor Harris, Not sure on the other two blokes. But as you can see they are enjoying a long neck whilst playing monopoly.

A couple Locomotive from Dad’s era at Port Lincoln and Thevenard

Dad at 10 years of age. Photo was taken at Little Swamp at Port Lincoln.

Dad with his guitar

My proud Dad with his invention

Dad and Friend came up with a new electronic ignition system. Dad spent many weeks down Adelaide trying to get it off the ground, but it never come to fruition because Dad took it all with him.  Although now Holden’s have a very similar Sdi system today..

To everyone out there reading  my first post, get up go hug your husband, wife or kids. Then get on the phone and ring your mum or dad. Get in the car and go visit them  because one day they won’t be there and you will miss them. My dad was still alive for the first 4 years whilst I started my career as a Locomotive Driver with Australian National, then the beginning of National Rail.

I have been on the foot plate for 18 years now, I love every minute of my job. I will endeavour to post as regular as possible. I have many photo's of my journeys in my short journey of  life as a railway man.