Stars of Sandstone set for another world-class festival for 2015
THE annual Stars of Sandstone Steam Heritage Festival is taking place from 2-12 April 2015. Steam enthusiasts from across the globe will once again be gathering at Sandstone Estates near Ficksburg in the Eastern Free-State bordering Lesotho in South Africa to celebrate the myriad steam-driven vehicles and machines that have been restored to pristine condition by Wilfred Mole and his team in celebration of the origins of transportation from days gone by.
The directors of Sandstone reported an overwhelming response from South African and international visitors to the fun-filled festival in April 2014, which has resulted in many new and regular visitors to the annual event, now in it’s 14th year, already registering to attend the festival in 2015!
Says Wilfred Mole, director of the Sandstone Estates: “In the past, we attracted mostly international visitors to this event and for the first time we were inundated with South Africans registering for our 2014 festival; so great was the response, that some visitors had not registered and simply showed up at the gates, having travelled from all corners of South Africa, resulting in some being turned away to ensure catering and activity facilities were not compromised for registered visitors.
“We therefor urge all visitors to register online to ensure they are not disappointed as our 2015 Stars of Sandstone Steam & Heritage Festival will be enjoyed by all wishing to attend the fun-filled event, suitable for all ages, including families looking for a destination to be enjoyed by the entire family.
“All the drivers of the steam and heritage vehicles are involved on a voluntary basis, travelling from across the globe to celebrate the romance and fun of a special era and we are urging such drivers and firemen to register early to participate in these sought-after activities.”
Military vehicles, trek oxen, old tractors, steam lorries, traction engines, locomotives, old buses and cars will again be taking centre stage with the backdrop of the majestic Maloti Mountains of the Lesotho Highlands in the distance.
Sandstone’s world-renowned 26km narrow gauge railway forms the backbone of the spectacular event and the distinctive autumn light provides a breathtaking vista ideal for photo opportunities of the vast vintage collection. Old tractors and other agricultural relics in mint condition will also be exhibited at the 2015 festival, with a few surprises to increase the daily fun level of the festival.
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