Worthington-Simpson Engine - Waikerie, SA, Australia
S 34° 10.776 E 139° 59.240
54H E 406677 N 6217466
This large engine is in Pioneer Park above White Street in Waikerie.
Waymark Code: WMZPB9
Location: South Australia, Australia
Date Posted: 12/13/2018
Views: 2
An interpretative sign, beside the large diesel engine has the following information.
"This six cylinder Worthington-Simpson two
stroke upright marine type crude oil pressure diesel
engine was installed into the Waikerie Pumping Station
along with three smaller units in 1928. They served the district
well until 1965 when a new all electric pumping station was built.
35 x one inch ropes, each 100 feet in length, connected this engine to
its pump.
Members of Waikerie Lions Club moved it to this site in 1969.
For further information see back of engine, also read pages 321,
322, of 'Irrigation Settlement' by David Mack at the Library
[Waikerie Historical Society
(Research by Meredith Arnold OAM)]"
The engine has been painted a 'dark' green, and is in good condition.
On 'Page 10' of a newsletter of the Tea Tree Gully Gem & Mineral Club (SA) is a report from one of their members, of 'a walk around Waikerie', with the following additional information:
"In 1928, the existing pumps were replaced with three new Worthington-Simpson diesel powered units which resulted in a substantial decrease in running costs. Diesel fuel was brought to Waikerie by rail from Birkenhead
in rail tanker trucks. These were shunted onto a side line at the railway station and the oil was gravitated by means of a pipeline to holding tanks on a prepared terrace above the pump-house.
"When all engines were operating, they consumed 1200 gallons of diesel fuel every 24 hours.
"Power from the diesels was transmitted to the pumps by rope drive. The larger unit had 35 ropes, each 100 feet in length. Ropes for each engine/pump unit were kept pliable with dressing of commercial lanoline.
"In 1965, these diesel units were replaced by an all-electric-power pumping station."
[ex- : Rockzette, page 10. December 2016 - PDF document]
Visited: 1425-7, Thursday, 31 May, 2018