PHOTO: GERRIT DOPPENBERGFor one Southland family, steam engines are much more than a novelty — they are their transport, their hobbies, their assets and even their kitchen. The Scandrett clan headed out to Mandeville with a 1925 Marshall Compound Traction Engine to take part in the Mandeville Fly In & Steam Festival. John Scandrett, a Southern Steam Engine Club stalwart, takes it to every get-together the family can get to. Mrs Sanderson said it was easy to see the appeal of the steam engine, but the purpose went further than just the aesthetic. "He proposed on the traction engine, on February 21, so this holds a special place in our heart."

Source: Otago Daily Times February 24, 2026 15:35 UTC