Locomotive PB15 No.44 from 1908

From Dr Geraldine Mate, Head of Cultures & Histories:
"PB15 class No. 444 was a classic 4-6-0 steam locomotive built in 1908 by Walkers Limited for Queensland Railways.

Based mostly in Roma, this special loco spent decades hauling passengers and goods trains across south-west Queensland, travelling nearly 2 million kilometres in its lifetime. Tough and reliable, it became one of the workhorses of the railway.

In October 1968, No. 444 made history by pulling Brisbane’s last 'official' steam train before diesel power fully took over. It was withdrawn from service in 1969 – ending a remarkable 61 years of steam which had transformed Queensland.

No. 444 now lives at Queensland Museum Rail Workshops in Ipswich and can be seen in all its glory at the entrance to the museum!"

This object is part of Queensland Museum's Transport & Industry Collection. Donate now to take care of this treasure.