The Beyer Peacock & Co. 2-6-0 locomotive, commonly known as the A-class within the
Western Australian Government Railways (WAGR) context, was operated by the
Goodwood Timber Company in Noojee.
Built by Beyer Peacock & Co. in Manchester, this 2-6-0 tender locomotive was designed
for a 3’6″ gauge. Before arriving at Noojee, it operated for the Kalgoorlie & Boulder
Firewood Company.
By the 1930s, it was the only serviceable locomotive for the Goodwood Timber
Company, although it was in “appalling condition.” Operating this steam locomotive on
steep grades of 1 in 40 required skill, determination, and constant attention to the boiler.
Crews faced extreme weather conditions and smoke as they worked to ensure that the
“Gold of the Forest” reached the valley safely.