RE026: Passion for Steam Trains

David Mickle has had a passion for steam trains for 50 years. Before David he retired at the young age of 70, he worked as an electrician. He looked forward to retiring so he would have more time to pursue his passion for steam trains. When David was a young child he was fascinated with steam trains. His passion for steam trains only grew as he got older. Henry and David discuss his volunteer work on the on the Puffing Billy which is a voluntary Railway group that operates a steam train in Australia. David was a volunteer laborer and helped to restore the cars and railways after a landslide. They also discuss David's involvement with the Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club. David was one of the very first members of this club and was also involved in the club for over 50 years. Dave also restored a steam engine with the help of his friend. It was manufactured by the Yorkshire Steam Wagon Company and has a horizontal boiler on the front with Ackermann steering. There is nothing automatic about this steam wagon either. You have to stop to change gears. Henry and Dave talk about the restoration process and it really is amazing. In listening to Henry's interview David, you can really tell how important this hobby is to David. He is a man with some fascinating stories who is more than happy to share them. There is some amazing history and heritage behind steam trains. Do you have a passion for steam trains? You don't have to actually own a steam train if you are interested in them. There are steam engine organizations where you can volunteer doing things such as working on the trains or driving the trains. What is David advice for retirees? Find a hobby and keep your body active and your mind active. Sounds like great advice! Websites Mentioned in this interview: * Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club * Puffing Billy Have you ever ridden on a steam train?  Leave a comment below to tell us about your experience. Special Thanks to: * Angie Strehlow who helps us get great guests that help us with our retirement lifestyle while keeping everything on track…and helps with these show notes! * Les Briney, my husband, who edits the show and makes my guests and me sound terrific * Henry Shapiro, host of Retired Excited that airs on Fridays * YOU for telling your friends about the show, leaving comments below, and sharing episodes you really like on Facebook, and reviewing the show on iTunes This post about retirement and Retirement Lifestyle first appeared on http://RockYourRetirement.com