Thirty-six train enthusiasts braved the rain and joined the Durban Society of Model Engineers (DSME) in a celebration of Durban’s locomotive and engineering history. For over a century, the DSME has celebrated Durban’s locomotive and engineering history; and recently hosted their first train rides for 2025.
The ride took place at the Kellaway Hall, Durban North on Sunday, 12 January.
DSME Committee Member Jenny Bolton said that this event not only added to the century-long history of the club, but also provided enthusiasts a fun day out. “Every second Sunday, we offer these rides to the public. The money we raise contributes to keep the club operational, as well as providing a fun morning or afternoon out,” Bolton said.
Since 2 July 1913, the DSME – a non-profit organisation based in Virginia, Durban North – has aimed to promote modelling; designing, making and or operating small versions of machine engines and tools. It is run by a small and dedicated team of 3.5-inch and 5-inch gauge model steam and diesel locomotive enthusiasts.
Bolton shared that on the same day, visitors were able to visit the museum which contained history about steam trains and other interesting projects that members were working on. Bolton concluded that it was a great day still and those that did come for rides had a wonderful time.
Kellaway Park is named after engineer Harold V Kellaway.
Kellaway rose through the DSME ranks starting as a secretary in September 1914. He held office as a chairman, secretary and treasurer before ultimately being named president in 1960.
The DSME added that during the early days, the DSME included amongst its membership, a yachting and boating section. There was also a section for speed boats, racing cars and aeroplanes, so a site which allowed for model cars (generally tethered at that time), space for flying model aeroplanes (where noise would not be a problem) and a pool for the model boats would be required. A site was offered at the Bluff Bird Sanctuary which had water available for boating.
This, however, was considered as being too remote for the rail requirements and a site at Blue Lagoon, alongside the uMgeni River, was finally offered by the council and agreed upon.
Pictures 1-4: Train enthusiasts riding during one of the Durban Society of Model Engineers’ monthly train rides.
Picture 5: Steam train being maintained
Picture 6: Durban Society of Model Engineers Chairman Bruce Lavender teaching our youngest member Calvin Tanner
Durban North train enthusiasts full steam ahead
Thirty-six train enthusiasts braved the rain and joined the Durban Society of Model Engineers (DSME) in a celebration of Durban’s locomotive and engineering history. For over a century, the DSME has celebrated Durban’s locomotive and engineering history; and recently hosted their first train rides for 2025.
The ride took place at the Kellaway Hall, Durban North on Sunday, 12 January.
DSME Committee Member Jenny Bolton said that this event not only added to the century-long history of the club, but also provided enthusiasts a fun day out. “Every second Sunday, we offer these rides to the public. The money we raise contributes to keep the club operational, as well as providing a fun morning or afternoon out,” Bolton said.
Since 2 July 1913, the DSME – a non-profit organisation based in Virginia, Durban North – has aimed to promote modelling; designing, making and or operating small versions of machine engines and tools. It is run by a small and dedicated team of 3.5-inch and 5-inch gauge model steam and diesel locomotive enthusiasts.
Bolton shared that on the same day, visitors were able to visit the museum which contained history about steam trains and other interesting projects that members were working on. Bolton concluded that it was a great day still and those that did come for rides had a wonderful time.
Kellaway Park is named after engineer Harold V Kellaway.
Kellaway rose through the DSME ranks starting as a secretary in September 1914. He held office as a chairman, secretary and treasurer before ultimately being named president in 1960.
The DSME added that during the early days, the DSME included amongst its membership, a yachting and boating section. There was also a section for speed boats, racing cars and aeroplanes, so a site which allowed for model cars (generally tethered at that time), space for flying model aeroplanes (where noise would not be a problem) and a pool for the model boats would be required. A site was offered at the Bluff Bird Sanctuary which had water available for boating.
This, however, was considered as being too remote for the rail requirements and a site at Blue Lagoon, alongside the uMgeni River, was finally offered by the council and agreed upon.
