The 900 Class were among the first mainline diesel locomotives constructed in Australia, and were the only ones constructed in-house by the South Australian Railways. Although somewhat similar in appearance to the American Locomotive Company PA-1 model locomotives, the 900 Class were powered by English Electric components.

They initially operated on the old broad gauge to Port Pirie before venturing on to the main south line for freight and passenger duties, including The Overland, which was often hauled by up to three 900 Class locomotives between the 1950′s and 1980′s.

Due to their heavy axle load, the 900 Class were banned from operating on most of the state’s branch lines. Notable exceptions include the Angaston line, Penrice line, and Victor Harbor line, the latter of which deteriorated and had the same ban applied.

Only three class members survive today; 900 at the National Railway Museum, and 907 and 909 in private ownership.

Source: RailSA