In September 2023, the Ireland Made film crew were delighted to be invited as the guests of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI) to travel return, from Dublin Connolly Station along the mainline to Wicklow Railway Station.
Established in 1964, the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI) safeguards Irish steam locomotives and rolling stock, operating them on the mainline rail network. Relying on volunteers and partnering with Irish Rail, the society preserves traditions, to ensure the continued operation of steam trains.
The RPSI is the only mainline steam train provider in Ireland and our route along the east coast of Ireland, running alongside the Irish Sea, took us over the Rivers Liffey and Vartry and through the tunnels at Bray Head, originally constructed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
Our train was pulled by 4-4-0 Class Q locomotive, No. 131, Uranus. Built by Neilson-Reid in 1901 and formerly of the Great Northern Railway. On the straight track alongside Newcastle Beach the crew were able to open up steam power of the engine and we recorded speeds of up to 64 mph.
The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland welcomes new members and volunteers who share a common interest in preserving main line steam trains in Ireland. If you have a passion for steam trains, there’s a role for everyone. Volunteering offers the chance to meet people, acquire skills, and contribute to a meaningful cause.
Volunteer roles are varied and include:
Train Operations: Drivers, Firemen, Guards, Shunters and Steam Raisers
Carriage & Wagon: restoration, maintenance and repair of our heritage vehicles in preparation for both mainline running and display in the museum
Permanent Way: maintenance and renewal of the track infrastructure
Diesel Locomotives: cleaning, maintaining and servicing engines
Catering: dining car and kitchen
Shop: online shop or selling items on the train
Electrical: maintenance around our site or assistance with locomotive wiring
Carriage Stewards: stewards who look after the health and safety of our passengers
Tour Guiding: guiding visitors through the museum
The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI), is an all-island society, providing a broad range of roles to cater to volunteers’ interests.
Find out more about volunteering with RPSI https://www.steamtrainsireland.com/membership/volunteering
Check out the first and second episodes of ‘Railway People’ featuring Chairman, Peter Rigney https://fb.watch/oi3PZosiKY/ and Deputy Train Manager, Bill Garrioch https://www.facebook.com/reel/716809133665466
