Tenders were called by RailCorp in October and again in November, seeking a new boiler for their high profile 204-tonne streamlined express steam locomotive, which is undergoing full restoration at the Rail Transport Museum's Thirlmere compound.

Believing several overseas firms had tendered for the work in the first round, Mr Ainsworth, who has 30 years experience building and repairing steam boilers and equipment, was "incensed" it might not be built in Australia.

"After all, it is an iconic Australian locomotive, built in 1942 by Australians to an Australian design," he said.

For the full story, please see Friday's Goulburn Post, available from our front office in Auburn St, or at all leading newsagencies across the Goulburn area.