As part of Heritage week Lifetime Lab hosted a steam open day on Saturday August 25th.

The Burrell Traction Engine outside Lifetime Lab Steam Centre

Visitors were treated to the rare sight of a steam engine in operation at the site for the first time in over 50 years. Children and adults alike were delighted to watch the Halfway Vintage Club Engine chugging away inside the gate of the old Waterworks. The Owenabue Rambler, a Burrell traction steam engine made the 2 hour trip from Halfway near Ballinhassig to the Lee road, averaging a speed of 5 mph.

Mark O' Donoghue and John Cahill

Steam fans in attendance were also treated to a display of working model steam engines hand made by local man John Cahill while older visitors enjoyed the video display on the history of Steam Power.

Kelly Family at Lifetime Lab steam day

The old waterworks buildings still house three triple expansion steam engines and associated boilers formerly used for pumping water to the city. The engine house was fully open to the public for the day, with volunteers on hand to explain how in the past steam was used to supply water to Cork city.

Rory Nagle of Halfway vintage club positioning the Burrell into position.

Lifetime Lab wishes to extend immense gratitude to the members of Halfway Vintage Club, and also Mark O’ Donoghue and John Cahill for making the day possible.