South Australian Railways 500 class (steam)

The South Australian Railways (SAR) 500 class was a class of 4-6-2 "Pacific" type steam locomotives built by the SAR between 1926 and 1928. Designed primarily for express passenger services on the state's broad gauge network (1600mm), they were among the most powerful and advanced steam locomotives operated by the SAR.

The 500 class locomotives were a development of earlier SAR locomotive designs, incorporating features such as superheaters, Walschaerts valve gear, and streamlined styling for improved performance and aesthetics. They were equipped with large driving wheels to facilitate high speeds and were known for their smooth riding qualities.

The locomotives saw extensive service hauling prestigious passenger trains, including the "Overland" to Melbourne (operated jointly with the Victorian Railways) and other express services to various destinations within South Australia.

Over time, the introduction of diesel locomotives in the 1950s and 1960s gradually displaced the 500 class from frontline service. The last of the class were withdrawn from regular operations in the late 1960s.

Several members of the 500 class have been preserved and are currently located at railway museums and heritage railways across South Australia. These preserved locomotives serve as important examples of the SAR's steam locomotive heritage and are often operated on special excursions.