In 1943, during World War II, four diesel-electric industrial shunting type locomotives built by General Electric Company for the United States Army Transportation Corps were imported from the U.S by the Department of Supply under Lend-Lease conditions for use at the St Marys Munitions factory in Sydney.
Before entering service in New South Wales the 4 locos were fitted with buffers and hook drawgear to NSWGR standards. The cab profile was also altered to fit within the New South Wales loading gauge.Being of the hood type, with a central cab, they could work in either direction without turning.
In April 1948, the Commonwealth Government took 7921 for use at Woomera Rocket Range.
Following retirement in the early 1980s, 7921 returned to New South Wales and is preserved at the NSW Rail Museum, Thirlmere.
Goodness but that's a very workmanlike looking beast!
I spotted more loco images in your 'this month' thumbnails and just had to take a look through them, I love locos, particularly old steam engines. Great series of images; thoroughly enjoyed them.
I spotted more loco images in your 'this month' thumbnails and just had to take a look through them, I love locos, particularly old steam engines. Great series of images; thoroughly enjoyed them.