J-550 Class Locomotive is renowned as a workhorse of its era, showcasing engineering
excellence. It served as a pilot locomotive in Bendigo until its withdrawal from service in
1972. In 1974, it was moved to Mirboo North for static preservation, with the oil tank
removed.
Acquired by Steamrail Victoria in 1985 for spare parts, J-550 had its boiler cladding
stripped and asbestos lagging removed. Key components were salvaged for Steamrail’s
K-class fleet. Following a deal for exchange, the locomotive was in Warragul until 2013
when it moved to Noojee.
During this time, valve stems and piston rods were temporarily removed, and the
Westinghouse brake pump bracket was taken off. Steamrail fabricated new boiler cladding
and made cosmetic enhancements to improve its appearance. J-550 comes alive every
weekend, with smoke rising from its chimney, using the working firebox to generate it.