New South Wales Government Railways 0-6-0T No. 1803
Thirlmere, New South Wales, Australia 		Location: NSW Rail Museum
Status: Display
Related Notes
Photo Copyright © Kevin Jones
Here are the notes for New South Wales Government Railways No. 1803, a 0-6-0T located in Thirlmere, New South Wales. If you have additional information about this locomotive, and would like to share it, click the Add Note button.
Posted: Jan 31, 2026 @ 18:01:56 by Eddie Wearing
Repainted as Thomas the Tank Engine and displayed outdoors by 2023;
Posted: Mar 24, 2016 @ 13:03:57 by Robin R Beck
NSWGR 1803 was originally number R287 but in NSWGR 1924 renumbering it became 1803. It was built for suburban passenger trains but relegated to shunting as more powerful locos appeared. Withdrawn 1962.

Literally saved from scrapline and moved to Enfield museum and then Thirlmere. Spent many years in outside storage. When accessed for restoration, found unsuitable so has been cosmetically restored as Thomas for Thirlmere popular Thomas weekends. Seems to spend the rest of its life hidden under tarpaulin. In 3 visits over 5 years always under wraps.

Posted: May 23, 2005 @ 17:05:29 by Kevin Jones

One of 6 engines of the R285 (later z18) class, originally purchased for use hauling Sydney suburban trains. 1803 retains several early features including the placement of the clack-valve and the original riveted bunker. 1803 has never had any restoration work carried out since preservation. Transferred to Thirlmere in 1974, 1803 was shunted onto the long term storage sidings at Thirlmere in 1983 where it remains as seen in this photo of 16th May 2004.

Driver Diameter: 48"

Tractive Effort: 11,550lbs

Boiler Pressure: 140lbs

Cylinders: 15" x 22"