I only ever saw one 17 in action. Thanks to the efforts of many we got to see it working well into the 21st century, and we might get to see it once more. Since preservation it has led a colourful life.
It was a tasteful green when captured by my elders with 2605 on a tour to Tarana and Oberon on 9 March 1963.
By the 1970s it had gained the hue all Australia was wearing - purple. Well, maroon actually. Here are a few shots of it taking water in Wollongong. Incidentally, the little bloke leaning against the pole with the Hitler haircut is me - thanks Mum.
In fact, its 1970s appearance was so startling we only photographed it in black and white.
Things became more subdued after that... here's probably the last time I saw it in action in 2005 at the 150th celebrations of NSW railways.
Until next time.
Don
